Snakes in Louisiana: A Complete Guide

Louisiana is home to a diverse variety of snake species, ranging from small and harmless to large and venomous. For residents and visitors, it’s important to be able to identify the different types of snakes found in the state. This complete guide covers everything you need to know about Louisiana snakes.

How Many Snakes Live in Louisiana?

There are 48 different snake species found in Louisiana, 7 of which are venomous. The remaining 41 species are nonvenomous, including some popular pet snakes like corn snakes and king snakes. Even though less than 15% of Louisiana snakes are dangerous, it’s still crucial to be able to identify venomous species for safety.

Snake Habitats in Louisiana

Snakes occupy diverse habitats across Louisiana. Many species live in forested areas and woodlands like timber rattlesnakes pine snakes, and black rat snakes. Swamps, marshes, ponds, lakes, and rivers are home to water snakes like the cottonmouth, diamond-backed watersnake, and plain-bellied watersnake. Open prairies and fields host coachwhips and racers. Kingsnakes and milksnakes thrive in suburban areas around human homes. Coral snakes prefer tropical habitats.

Venomous Snakes in Louisiana

Here are the 7 venomous snake species found in Louisiana:

• Cottonmouth – Large, stocky pit viper up to 5 feet long. Swamp and water habitats. Aggressive if threatened.

• Copperhead – Smaller pit viper with hourglass pattern Found in wooded areas, Relies on camouflage

• Timber Rattlesnake – Large rattlesnake to 4 feet. Woodlands and forests. Loud rattling warning.

• Western Pygmy Rattlesnake – Tiny rattlesnake under 2 feet long. Found in prairies and flatlands.

• Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake – Massive rattlesnake up to 7 feet long. Dry pine forests and scrublands.

• Texas Coralsnake – Bright red, yellow and black bands. Nocturnal and secretive. Neurotoxic venom.

• Eastern Coral Snake – Similar in appearance to Texas coralsnake. Prefers tropical habitats.

Identifying Venomous Snakes

• Pit vipers have slit-shaped pupils, arrow/spade-shaped heads, and pronounced neck scales. Rattlesnakes have obvious rattles at the tail tip.

• Coral snakes have short rounded heads and vibrant red, yellow and black color banding. Easy to confuse with nonvenomous mimics.

• When in doubt, back away slowly without disturbing the snake. Never try to catch or kill venomous snakes!

Most Common Nonvenomous Snakes

• Garter Snakes – Small striped snakes in moist areas. Mildly toxic saliva.

• Watersnakes – Heavy-bodied aquatic snakes, often confused with cottonmouths.

• Racers – Fast-moving slender snakes eating rodents, birds, frogs.

• Kingsnakes – Strong constrictors with variable patterns. Commonly kept as pets.

• Ratsnakes – Excellent climbers preying on rodents and birds.

• Brownsnakes – Tiny secretive snakes under rocks and logs.

What To Do If You See a Snake

If you encounter a snake in Louisiana, follow these tips:

• Stay calm and keep your distance. Snakes are not aggressive toward humans.

• Identify the snake if possible, but avoid handling it.

• If the snake appears potentially dangerous, back away slowly and carefully.

• Never try to kill or capture the snake yourself.

• If bitten, seek medical attention immediately. Try to note identifying features of the snake.

• Call animal control if the snake poses an immediate risk, e.g. located near a school.

Living Safely With Louisiana Snakes

• When hiking, wear protective footwear and stay on marked trails. Avoid reaching into hidden crevices.

• Keep yards and properties free of debris piles and overgrown vegetation. Eliminate potential hiding spots.

• Supervise children and pets when playing outside. Don’t allow them to explore densely vegetated areas.

• Snakeproof outdoor enclosures for small pets. Make fences and walls snake-resistant.

• Install snake repellents like sulfur powder or venom deterrent around foundations.

• Call professional wildlife removal services for snake problems inside homes. Never try to remove venomous snakes yourself.

Fascinating Snake Species in Louisiana

Beyond just identifying dangerous snakes, Louisiana is home to some truly fascinating serpents. Here are a few of note:

• Scarlet Kingsnake – Vibrant red, black and white bands. Feasts on reptile eggs.

• Rainbow Snake – Brilliant iridescent scales shimmering red, blue, orange and yellow.

• Coachwhip – Ultra fast runner at speeds over 4 mph. Eats small mammals, birds, lizards.

• Pine Snake – Powerful constrictor reaching up to 6 feet long. Prefers pine forests.

• Plain-bellied Watersnake – Aquatic hunter with varying brown, gray or green colors.

The diverse snakes of Louisiana showcase the state’s rich ecosystems and natural heritage. While caution is advisable, these reptiles are a valuable part of our wilderness areas. With proper understanding and respectful treatment, both humans and snakes can safely coexist in this region.