Florida is known for its sunny beaches, theme parks, and of course – snakes! With over 40 native snake species, Florida has one of the most diverse snake populations in the United States. Some species are harmless, while others can deliver a dangerous, venomous bite.
Understanding the different types of snakes in Florida can help you safely identify them if you happen to encounter one This guide will provide an overview of the most common snakes found in Florida, how to identify venomous species, and tips on coexisting with these fascinating reptiles.
How Many Snake Species Live in Florida?
There are over 40 species of snakes native to Florida. This includes 6 venomous species and around 35 nonvenomous species.
The 6 venomous snakes in Florida are:
- Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake
- Timber Rattlesnake
- Pygmy Rattlesnake
- Eastern Coral Snake
- Cottonmouth
- Copperhead
Some of the most common nonvenomous snakes include rat snakes, racers, water snakes, and garter snakes. Florida is also home to some larger nonvenomous species like the Eastern Indigo Snake, Pine Snake, and Rainbow Snake.
Invasive snake species like the Burmese Python and Boa Constrictor have also established breeding populations in South Florida after being introduced from the pet trade,
How to Identify Venomous Snakes in Florida
While most Florida snakes are not dangerous to humans, it is still important to know how to identify venomous species for safety. Here are a few key characteristics to look for:
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Triangular shaped head – Venomous snakes tend to have a wide triangular head, while nonvenomous snakes have a narrow rounded head.
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Heat sensing pits – Venomous pit vipers have heat sensing pits on each side of the head between the eyes and nostrils.
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Vertical pupils – Venomous snakes usually have vertical slit-like pupils instead of round pupils. However, this is not a foolproof method since some nonvenomous snakes can also have vertical pupils.
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Rattles – Rattlesnakes have a segmented rattle at the end of their tail that makes a buzzing sound when vibrated. Young rattlesnakes may not have a fully developed rattle.
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Warning coloration – The Eastern Coral Snake has distinct red, yellow and black colored banding.
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Cottonmouths get their name from the white interior of their mouth. They are often found near water.
If you cannot clearly identify a snake, it is best to keep your distance and allow it to retreat. Never try to kill or handle a snake you believe may be venomous.
5 Common Nonvenomous Snakes in Florida
While venomous snakes get most of the attention, Florida is actually home to a wide diversity of harmless snake species. Here are 5 of the most common:
1. Southern Black Racer
The Southern Black Racer is one of the most common and widespread snakes in Florida. These slender gray or black snakes are found statewide and are active foragers during the day. They are harmless to humans but will bite if threatened.
2. Corn Snake
Corn snakes are a popular pet snake due to their calm demeanor. In the wild, they are found throughout most of Florida. Their orange or red markings and checkerboard bellies make them easy to identify.
3. Eastern Rat Snake
Rat snakes are common in a variety of habitats statewide. They are excellent climbers and can sometimes find their way into attics or rafters while hunting rodents. Rat snakes come in a variety of colors but have a distinctive blotched pattern.
4. Eastern Garter Snake
The small Eastern Garter Snake is one of the most common backyard snakes in Florida. They have distinctive stripes running down their backs and live in a variety of habitats. Though mildy venomous, their venom is not dangerous to humans.
5. Rough Green Snake
The bright green Rough Green Snake lives in bushes and trees where it blends in well with vegetation. They have keen eyesight and feed mainly on insects and spiders. Rough Green Snakes are found in wooded areas statewide.
Venomous Snake Bites in Florida
While venomous snake bites do occur in Florida, they are extremely rare. On average, only 5-10 venomous snakebite fatalities occur each year across the entire United States. In comparison, 88 Americans die annually from lightning strikes.
If you are bitten by a venomous snake, seek immediate medical attention. Antivenom can prevent serious injury or death if administered promptly.
To avoid snakebites:
- Leave snakes alone if encountered
- Wear protective footwear and long pants in snake habitat
- Avoid reaching into areas you can’t see clearly
- Keep yards free of debris piles snakes could hide in
- Teach children to respect snakes and other wildlife
Tips for Living with Snakes in Florida
The best way to coexist with snakes is to respect them from a distance. Here are a few tips:
- Learn to identify venomous species in your area
- Keep vegetation around the home trimmed to reduce hiding spots
- Seal cracks in foundations and openings to deter snakes from entering
- Avoid leaving pet food or bird seed outside overnight
- Check carefully when moving debris piles or logs
- Call animal control to remove venomous snakes if needed
For nonvenomous snakes, removal is usually unnecessary. They are timid by nature and help control rodent populations. As long as you take precautions, snakes don’t need to be feared.
Snake Species in Florida: Summary
Florida is home to a diverse mix of snake species, ranging from tiny harmless snakes to large intimidating pit vipers. By learning about the common snakes where you live, you can appreciate these unique reptiles and coexist safely.
If you have an encounter with a snake in Florida, remember to admire it from a distance and give it space. Snakes only bite when threatened, so don’t pose a threat! Observing wildlife is one of the state’s greatest pleasures.
What to do if you see a snake?
What should you do when you come upon a snake? Just stand back and observe it. Snakes dont purposefully position themselves to frighten people. Theyd much rather avoid encounters and usually will flee. You can try to figure out what kind it is by using these articles. Some snakes, such as the Eastern indigo snake, are designated as endangered or threatened species and are protected.
There is no good reason to kill a snake except in the unlikely situation of a venomous snake posing immediate danger to people or pets. Snakes usually bite people only if they are molested; its their only means of self-defense. Even a venomous snake in the woods or crossing the road poses no threat and should be left alone. Also, most larger snakes travel in large areas, so one you see in your yard today may be far away tomorrow.
The frequent sighting of snakes near dwellings or out-buildings may indicate the presence of rodents. Removal of brush, lumber or other debris accumulations will discourage both rodents and snakes. Rodent food sources like chronically spilled bird seed under feeders or pet foods scraps should also be policed regularly.
Venomous reptiles may only be possessed under license, and specific laws are in effect for handling, caging, and transporting them.
Report Sightings of 3 Upland Snakes
Southern Hognose, Florida Pine, and Short-tailed snakes need sighting data. Have you seen them?
Florida has a rich diversity of snakes and other reptiles which play an interesting and vital role in Floridas complex ecology. Our 44 species of native snakes are found in every conceivable habitat, from coastal mangroves and saltmarshes to freshwater wetlands and dry uplands, and many species thrive in residential areas. However, there are just a few species that are commonly seen in developed area, although any snake may occasionally be found in urban settings.
Snakes occupy a valuable place in Floridas ecosystem. For example, snakes help reduce rodent populations, which destroy crops and sometimes carry diseases which can infect people. Non-venomous snakes also consume venomous ones, and can help maintain ecosystem balances. Venomous snakes are also beneficial; for example, some rattlesnake species have been reported to consume ticks in their native ranges.
Only six of Floridas 44 snake species are venomous: the eastern coral snake, the southern copperhead, the cottonmouth, the eastern diamondback rattlesnake, the timber rattlesnake, and the dusky pygmy rattlesnake. Most Florida snakes are harmless and beneficial and remove extra rodent populations. Even the venomous species are not particularly dangerous unless stepped on or otherwise provoked.
Most snakes you encounter are most likely to be non-venomous. By recognizing common non-venomous snakes and understanding something of their habits, you can take a more relaxed attitude toward them and appreciate them as an integral part of Floridas wildlife.
Check out this video to learn more about our state’s many snake species and what to do when you encounter them.
Snakes in Florida: What you need to know
FAQ
What is the most common snake found in Florida?
Southern Ring-Necked Snake
Southern ring-necked snakes (Diadophis punctatus) are one of the most commonly found snake species in urban areas throughout all of Florida, where they are found in leaf litter or mulch, on walkways, and sometimes in houses. They occasionally fall into pools and end up in the skimmer basket.
What is Florida’s deadliest snake?
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Size and Danger:It’s the largest and most dangerous venomous snake in Florida, with an average adult size between 36 to 72 inches.
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Venom:Their venom is highly potent and can cause severe symptoms, including pain, swelling, vomiting, bruising, weakness, shock, and a metallic taste in the mouth.
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Identification:Look for a series of brown diamonds with yellowish borders down its back, and a distinctive rattling tail when threatened.
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Habitat:They are found throughout Florida, including pinelands, scrub, coastal barrier islands, and even urban areas.
What snakes do you have to worry about in Florida?
Only six of Florida’s 44 snake species are venomous: the eastern coral snake, the southern copperhead, the cottonmouth, the eastern diamondback rattlesnake, the timber rattlesnake, and the dusky pygmy rattlesnake. Most Florida snakes are harmless and beneficial and remove extra rodent populations.
How to keep snakes away from your house in Florida?
- Keep your yard tidy: Regularly mow the grass, trim shrubs and trees, and remove piles of leaves, wood, rocks, and other debris.
- Manage rodents: Snakes are attracted to areas where rodents are present, so take steps to control rodent populations by keeping food stored properly, sealing cracks and holes, and using traps if necessary.
- Remove standing water: Snakes may be attracted to standing water, so ensure that gutters are clear and repair any leaky faucets or hoses.
- Store firewood properly: Store firewood in a sealed, lockable wood box or away from the house.
- Keep bird feeders and pet food dishes inside
What are the most dangerous snakes in Florida?
The eastern diamond rattlesnake is the deadliest snake in the US and can be found in our article on the most venomous snakes in the world. The Eastern coral snake is the other venomous species found in Florida. As an elapid, it looks entirely different from the pit vipers. The coral snake is one of the few dangerous snakes in Florida.
What are the most common types of snakes found in Florida?
The North American Racer is the most common snake species in Florida. It’s most common in the Florida Keys but its habitat is widespread in all regions of the state. North American Racers have an all-black color as adults. They can be seen in woodlands, prairies, sandhills, and all other dry areas of Florida.
How can I identify a Florida snake?
A final way to identify Florida vipers is by their pupils. Viper pupils mostly appear as vertical slits. Harmless Florida colubrids have round pupils like those of a human. Viper pupils can appear round when dilated (in low light). Round pupils do not always guarantee a harmless snake.
Are there any non-venomous snakes in Florida?
Some non-venomous snakes, such as the Eastern Indigo Snake and Common Kingsnake, even eat venomous snakes! Florida has also been invaded by four species of non-native snakes, three of which have established breeding populations. These snakes are native to tropical and sub-tropical habitats and are able to survive in Florida’s hospitable climate.