Snake Identification in South Florida’s Aquatic Environment Adam Grayson Allstate Resource Management

Snakes? In Florida? Snakes are a common and natural occurrence in Florida. Of the 45 different species of snakes found in our State, only six are venomous!

Non-Venomous or Venomous? Proper identification of snakes is essential when working in the field

Common Water Snakes (Nerodia ssp.) Blunt, rounded head and circular pupil. Lack of distinguishable face markings Found all over Florida near water. These snakes are VERY common and often mistaken for the now rare venomous water moccasin.

Rat Snakes (Elaphe ssp.) Long, slender snakes that ranges throughout Florida and can be found in many different color forms. Rounded head, round pupil These snake’s main diet consists of rodents, which makes them good to have around! They are non-venomous, but can be aggressive and will bite if molested.

The Black Racers (Coluber constrictor ssp.) Active during the day (diurnal) Black body coloration with white chin Slender, fast moving Up to six feet in length Will bite when provoked

Rough Green Snake (Opheodrys aestivus) Often seen in trees and in bushes Florida’s only bright green snake

Florida Cottonmouth (Agkistrodon piscivorus conanti) VENOMOUS! Head shape in a distinguishable triangle shape Vertical “cat-like” pupil White markings on face, pattern faded on back, has large facial heat-pit Opens mouth when threatened, showing white interior lining “cottonmouth”

Dusky Pygmy Rattlesnake (Sistrurus miliarius barbouri) VENOMOUS! Distinguished by the gray coloring with black blotches and red vertebral stripe. Can reach up to 30 inches in size. Lack of size is compensated by their potent venom and aggressive behavior.

Coral Snake (Micrurus fulvius) VENOMOUS! “Red Touch Yellow – Kill a Fellow, Red Touch Black – Venom Lack” Belongs to the elapid family, which also includes cobras and kraits. A shy, non-aggressive snake that lives mostly underground and hidden.

In Conclusion… Snakes are an integral part of Florida’s natural ecosystem. These reptiles are extremely beneficial to have around because they eat “pests” such as toads and rodents and ultimately fill an important role in the food chain since they prey and are preyed upon by many mammals, birds and other wildlife. Whether venomous or non-venomous, snakes are not malicious beings and would much rather be left alone then cross paths with us.