Orange snakes are some of the most stunning reptiles in the wild. Their vibrant coloring allows them to stand out against forest floors and desert sands. While not all orange snakes are dangerous, some species can deliver a nasty, venomous bite.
In this comprehensive guide we’ll explore some of the most common orange snake species you may encounter in the wild or even in your own backyard.
Overview of Orange Snakes
Orange snakes come in a wide variety of patterns and hues Some snakes may have a solid orange coloring while others feature orange stripes, patches, or bands. The shades can range from a pale yellow to a deep, vibrant red-orange.
These snakes use their bright coloring to camouflage themselves in fallen leaves, warn predators, or attract mates. Some of the most vibrant species include the corn snake, scarlet snake, and African bush viper.
While many orange snakes are nonvenomous, a few species can deliver toxic or even deadly bites. The most notorious is likely the African bush viper which has fearsome fangs and potent venom. However, as long as you give these snakes space and don’t provoke them, orange snakes pose little threat.
Below we’ll explore 13 of the most common orange snake species and their key identification features.
Nonvenomous Orange Snakes
1. Corn Snake
The corn snake is one of the most popular pet snakes, and for good reason. These docile, easy-to-handle snakes have a calm temperament and come in a stunning array of colors and patterns. In the wild, they display orange or red hues with black and white markings down their backs. They thrive in forests, fields, and abandoned buildings.
2. Ring-Necked Snake
The ring-necked snake is a small, secretive species with a bright yellow or orange neck band. They frequent moist environments like forests and often hide under rocks and logs. Their small size makes them easy prey, so their bright coloring warns potential predators to stay away.
3. Ribbon Snake
The slender ribbon snake lives around ponds and streams in the southeastern United States. It gets its name from the vivid orange stripe that runs the length of its back. This agile swimmer uses its lightning-quick movements and bright coloring to nab fish and frogs.
4. Scarlet Snake
With its red, black and yellow bands, the scarlet snake bears an uncanny resemblance to the deadly coral snake. However, this species is nonvenomous and dines on rodents and reptile eggs. Its brilliant coloration either mimics the coral snake as a defense mechanism or serves as a warning to predators itself.
5. Milk Snake
Like the scarlet snake, the milk snake uses a vibrant pattern of red, black and yellow rings to mimic the venomous coral snake. But make no mistake, this powerful constrictor poses no threat to humans. Milk snakes help control rodent populations, which is why they are welcome visitors to barns and abandoned structures.
6. Western Hognose Snake
The western hognose snake is famous for its dramatic “playing dead” act, in which it rolls over and convincingly plays possum. In addition to its acting skills, this small snake displays lovely orange or brown hues down its back. A toxic bite helps it subdue amphibian prey but doesn’t affect humans.
Venomous Orange Snakes
While many orange snakes are harmless, a few species can deliver potent — and potentially deadly — bites. Here are 7 venomous orange snakes to watch out for:
1. African Bush Viper
With its keeled orange scales, the African bush viper perfectly blends into forest canopies and leaf litter. This arboreal ambush predator delivers an extremely toxic bite that can be fatal without prompt medical care. Give this species a wide berth.
2. Red-Bellied Black Snake
Australia is home to some of the most toxic snakes on Earth, including the red-bellied black snake. This species sports vibrant red or orange along its underbelly. Fast moving and nervous by nature, it will readily bite in defense. Seek urgent medical care if bitten.
3. Eyelash Viper
This aptly named viper has “eyelashes” of elongated scales above its eyes. The venomous eyelash viper shows incredible diversity across its range, with some individuals displaying brilliant orange and black markings. This ambush hunter blends into leaf litter and patiently waits for prey.
4. Tiger Keelback
Also called the orange-bellied water snake, this venomous serpent is common near waterways and rice fields in Southeast Asia. As its name suggests, it has a bright orange underbelly and dark cross-bands on its back. Its venom packs a painful punch but isn’t usually fatal.
5. Red-Tailed Racer
The red-tailed racer lives in tropical forests and savannas of sub-Saharan Africa. It is a quick, nervous snake with a lethal bite. Red coloration on its tail serves as a warning to potential predators. This species is not medically significant, but any snakebite should be evaluated by a doctor.
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FAQ
Are orange ring snakes poisonous?
Diagnosis: HARMLESSLY VENOMOUS. Uses its venom to subdue prey, but is not dangerous to humans because a) they have an ineffective venom delivery mechanism, b) their mouths too small to gain purchase, and/or c) their venom is not adapted for causing physiological damage to mammals.
Are orange corn snakes poisonous?
CORN SNAKES ARE NOT VENOMOUS! In fact they are quite beneficial and will consume small vermin.
Are orange ribbon snakes poisonous?
They occasionally eat fish also. Juveniles can often be found in low grass surrounding ponds where they search for Blanchard’s cricket frogs. These snakes are harmless to humans.
Are orange rat snakes poisonous?
Harmless ratsnake. They don’t have any venom and are only interested in eating rodents (primarily) and sometimes birds like the ones in the picture.
Are orange snakes common?
It is not uncommon to see a snake when you are in nature or sometimes, even in your backyard. Snakes come in a variety of colors. Brown and tan are the most common colors, but some snakes have orange coloration. If you have recently seen an orange snake and you are trying to identify it, continue reading below.
Are orange snakes venomous?
Orange snakes can be venomous or non-venomous. The orange coloration does not automatically mean the snake you have encountered is dangerous to humans. The one to watch for is the red diamond rattlesnake. While it is the least venomous of all the rattlesnakes, it is still considered a medical emergency.
Do black and orange snakes have orange blotches?
Black and orange snakes are common in North America. Some snakes have blotches and scales that include these colors. Various snake morphs include mostly black and orange coloring, with some having black speckles, orange speckles, or similar lines. Ring-necked snakes are also known for having orange ring-like marks around their necks.
What are orange-bellied snakes?
There are several species of snakes with orange bellies. One example is the mud snake, found in the southern United States. They can grow up to 81 inches long and have red and black checkered bellies that can also be seen on their sides.
What does a black and orange snake look like?
North American black and orange snakes have a predominance of black and orange colors in their appearance. They exhibit a range of morphologies, with some having similar-colored blotches and scales, while others have speckles or lines in these shades.
Are orange snakes ring-necked?
Ring-necked snakes are known for having orange ring-like marks around their necks. Black and orange snakes are found in various parts of the US, with the highest numbers in Western, Southern, and Eastern states.