Slithering Around H-Town: A Guide to Snakes in Houston

Diamond Backed Water Snake

The Broad Banded Water Snake, scientifically known as Nerodia fasciata confluens, is a subspecies of the Southern Water Snake (Nerodia fasciata). This non-venomous, semi-aquatic snake is native to the southeastern United States, including Texas, and is known for its distinctive broad, dark bands that run down the length of its body. Here is a detailed overview of its habitat, behavior, diet, and reproduction based on the provided sources.

The Broad Banded Water Snake is typically found in freshwater environments such as lakes, ponds, marshes, streams, and swamps. It prefers heavily vegetated areas and is occasionally seen along canals and streams. This snake is often found near permanent bodies of water and is known to bask in the morning sun but is usually active at night, especially after heavy rains, in search of food.

This species displays a range of behaviors that are typical of water snakes. It is a strong swimmer and spends a significant portion of its life in the water. The snake is known to be aggressive when threatened or provoked, often displaying a very aggressive disposition. It may release an unpleasant musky odor or even bite if it feels threatened, although its bite is not venomous. Despite this, if handled gently, it can become very docile. The Broad Banded Water Snake is mainly active during the daytime but can also be nocturnal, especially during the summer’s intense heat.

The diet of the Broad Banded Water Snake primarily consists of small aquatic creatures. It feeds on fish, tadpoles, frogs, toads, and occasionally crayfish. This diet reflects the snake’s aquatic lifestyle and its ability to hunt in water.

Broad Banded Water Snakes are viviparous, meaning they give birth to live young rather than laying eggs. Mating typically occurs in the spring, and females give birth to live young during late summer. The number of offspring can vary significantly, with reports of 2 to 50 babies being born in a single litter. The young snakes are more brightly colored than their parents and measure 19-26.5 cm (7.5-10.5 in) when born. In summary, the Broad Banded Water Snake is a fascinating species with a strong affinity for aquatic environments. Its aggressive behavior when threatened, combined with its diet and reproductive strategy, makes it a resilient inhabitant of the southeastern United States’ freshwater ecosystems.

Graham’s crayfish snake, scientifically known as Regina grahamii, is a species of nonvenomous semiaquatic snake in the subfamily Natricinae of the family Colubridae. This species is endemic to the central United States, with its range extending across several states including Arkansas, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and Texas.

Graham’s crayfish snake is a medium-sized snake, typically measuring 18–28 inches (45.7–71 cm) in length, although individuals can grow up to 47 inches (119.4 cm) in some cases. The snake’s ground color can vary from brown to gray, and while it may not have dorsal markings, it often features a faint light or rust mid-dorsal stripe. A prominent light lateral stripe runs lengthwise from the side of the head along the body on both sides, distinguishing it from other species. The belly is usually the same color as the lateral stripes and is typically unmarked, except for a row of dark dots down the center in some specimens. The scales are keeled, and the anal plate is divided.

Graham’s crayfish snake inhabits a variety of aquatic environments including ponds, sloughs, marshes, floodplains, ditches, and creeks, particularly in prairie or woodland habitats with sandy soil. It is highly dependent on crayfish and their burrows for most aspects of its natural history, utilizing these burrows for overwintering. This species is active from April to October, being primarily diurnal in spring and fall, but may become nocturnal during the hot summer months. Despite its reliance on water, it is also known to utilize terrestrial habitats, especially when hunting or seeking shelter.

The diet of Graham’s crayfish snake predominantly consists of recently molted crayfish, which are easier to digest due to their soft exoskeletons. However, it is also reported to occasionally consume fish, amphibians, salamanders, tadpoles, and snails.

Graham’s crayfish snake is viviparous, meaning it gives birth to live young rather than laying eggs. Mating occurs in April and May, and females give birth to litters of 4–35 young from late July into September. The newborn snakes are born either in membranes or membranes that rupture during birthing, and they shed their skins immediately after birth.

While the species is not currently listed as endangered, its populations are declining in some areas due to habitat destruction and other environmental pressures. In Iowa, for example, it is protected by law and designated as a Species of Greatest Conservation Need. Globally, Graham’s crayfish snakes are listed as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List, indicating that they are not currently at significant risk of extinction. In summary, Graham’s crayfish snake is a distinctive, nonvenomous semiaquatic species with a diet heavily reliant on crayfish. Its habitat preferences, reproductive behavior, and conservation status highlight the importance of preserving aquatic and wetland environments to ensure the survival of this and other similar species.

The Southern Copperhead, Agkistrodon contortrix, occupies a range that extends through the eastern United States, including parts of Florida, Texas, and up to southern New England. Its habitat preferences vary across regions. In the mountains, they are commonly found on dry rocky hillsides and may den communally with timber rattlesnakes. In the Coastal Plain, they are abundant in lowland hardwood forests and swamp margins. They are tolerant of habitat alteration and remain common in suburban areas of large cities. In Florida, their habitat is mostly low-lying wet areas around swamps, streams, rivers, and ravines, with a preference for areas along the Apalachicola River. They are also found in deciduous forests, mixed woodlands, coniferous forests, and in the Chihuahuan Desert of West Texas and northern Mexico, they occur in riparian habitats.

Southern Copperheads are diurnal but can hunt in the evening or at night, especially during the hotter parts of the season. They maintain their body temperature between 73.4 and 87.8 degrees Fahrenheit and can sometimes be found in small trees to regulate their temperature. Their territory ranges from between 100 to 440,000 square meters, with males having larger ranges than females. They are opportunistic feeders, preying on a variety of animals including insects, mice, lizards, amphibians, and other snakes. They are most active from early spring to late fall and may hibernate during winter, often with other copperheads or even with other kinds of snakes. Males move long distances in search of females during mating season, and females give live birth to 7-10 young in the late summer.

Copperhead venom is hemolytic, meaning it breaks down blood cells, and is used primarily for subduing prey rather than defense. While the venom is not among the most potent of North American snakes, it can cause significant pain, edema, and localized tissue damage. Bites are rarely fatal but can be more dangerous for children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. The Southern Copperhead’s venom is less toxic compared to other venomous species in Florida, and while bites are extremely painful, they are usually not life-threatening for a healthy adult.

Southern Copperheads have a distinctive physical appearance. They are fairly large, heavy-bodied snakes with large, triangular heads and elliptical pupils. Their body color ranges from tan to brown with darker hourglass-shaped crossbands. Juveniles resemble adults but have a bright yellow tail tip used for luring prey. Adult males are larger than females. The head is solid brown with few markings, and the body has a light tan or brownish background with darker brown and tan blotches that pinch at the top, giving a triangular shape. Their color pattern provides excellent camouflage amongst leafy litter and debris. In summary, the Southern Copperhead is a venomous pit viper with a broad geographic range in the eastern United States, exhibiting varied habitat preferences and opportunistic feeding behavior. Its venom is hemolytic but not typically lethal to healthy adults, and the snake can be identified by its distinctive hourglass pattern and copper-colored head.

The Western Cottonmouth (Agkistrodon piscivorus), also known as the water moccasin, is a venomous snake native to the southeastern United States. This species is notable for its semi-aquatic nature, being one of the few vipers in the world comfortable both in water and on land. The following sections provide detailed information on the habitat, behavior, venom, and identification of the Western Cottonmouth.

Western Cottonmouths are found in a variety of wetland habitats including swamps, lakes, ponds, rivers, and ditches. They prefer lowland swamps, lakes, rivers, sloughs, irrigation ditches, rice fields, and salt marshes but are not confined to moist habitats alone. They can also be found in upland habitats far from aquatic environments, especially during spring and fall as they move to or from hibernating spots.

Cottonmouths exhibit several unique behaviors. They are nocturnal, most active at night, but can also be active during daylight hours, especially in the spring and fall. When swimming, they hold their head above water with most of their body barely touching the surface. They employ a unique predatory tactic where young snakes wiggle their tails to mimic worms, attracting prey. Despite their reputation, they generally try to escape if encountered and will only attack humans when threatened. They are known to be territorial during mating season, and females give birth to live young every two to three years.

The venom of the Western Cottonmouth is hemotoxic, causing tissue damage and disrupting blood clotting. While their bite is rarely fatal to humans, it can cause severe tissue damage if not treated promptly. They are capable of delivering a venomous bite both underwater and on land. Despite their venomous nature, fatalities are extremely rare, and they contribute to less than 1% of all snakebite deaths in the United States.

Adult Western Cottonmouths can be identified by their dark, grayish-brown color with little or no markings; very old individuals may appear almost entirely black. They have a distinctive white coloration inside their mouth, which is visible when they open their mouth in a defensive posture. They possess a broad, flat head that is distinctly wider than the neck and elliptical pupils that appear as narrow slits by day and widen at night. Juveniles are lighter in color with distinct crossbands and a yellow-tipped tail. In summary, the Western Cottonmouth is a fascinating species with unique adaptations for a semi-aquatic lifestyle. Their behavior, venom, and distinctive appearance make them an interesting subject of study, though caution is advised due to their venomous nature.

The Texas coral snake (Micrurus tener) can be identified by its distinctive tricolor pattern of red, yellow, and black bands. The red and yellow bands touch each other, which is a key characteristic that sets it apart from nonvenomous mimics that have red bands touching black bands. The saying “Red touch yellow, kill a fellow; red touch black, venom lack” is often used to remember this distinction. The head of the Texas coral snake is solid black, followed by a yellow nape ring, and there are no red bands on the tail or in front of the yellow neck ring. The belly of the snake is not colored differently than the back, and the bands encircle the entire body. Adult Texas coral snakes typically measure between 51-76 cm (20-30 inches) in length, with some individuals reaching up to 121 cm (48 inches).

The Texas coral snake is found in various habitats throughout eastern and southern Texas, including the Hill Country along the I-10 corridor from San Antonio to Sonora. It prefers areas with thick plant litter, which provides a humid subterranean environment. This species is also common in garden areas where watered mulch and paving stones offer suitable hiding spots. It does not occur in the Panhandle and barely extends into the easternmost areas of the Trans-Pecos. The Texas coral snake is also found in mixed forests, woodlands, grasslands, savannas, shrublands, and deserts, often in vegetation along rivers and streams.

Texas coral snakes are known for their ophiophagy, meaning they primarily feed on other snakes, overpowering them with their highly potent venom. They are not constrictors; instead, they hold onto their prey and envenomate it. These snakes are generally not aggressive towards humans and prefer to retreat rather than fight. Most envenomations occur when people either step on the snake or handle it. They are oviparous, laying eggs in mid-summer with young emerging fully independent after about two months.

The venom of the Texas coral snake is neurotoxic, similar to that of its cobra relatives, and is over eight times more lethal than that of the diamondback rattlesnake. However, the volume of venom injected is typically small compared to that of a rattlesnake. The venom can cause severe neurological symptoms, but fatalities are rare, especially since the development of antivenin. Despite its potency, the Texas coral snake is not considered as dangerous as rattlesnakes due to its reclusive nature and the rarity of bites. In summary, the Texas coral snake is a venomous elapid with a distinctive color pattern, found in a variety of habitats in Texas. It feeds on other snakes, is oviparous, and while its venom is highly toxic, it is not typically aggressive towards humans.

Eastern Yellow Belly Racer Snake

The Eastern Yellow-Bellied Racer (Coluber constrictor flaviventris) is a subspecies of the Eastern Racer, a non-venomous colubrid snake native to North America. This snake is known for its distinctive physical characteristics, habitat preferences, diet, and behavior.

Adult Eastern Yellow-Bellied Racers are thin-bodied snakes that can reach a total length of up to 1.5 meters (60 inches). They exhibit an olive grey-green coloration on their dorsal side with a yellow underside. Juveniles display a markedly different appearance, featuring a tan or cream-colored body with brown or grey blotches. This coloration gradually changes to the solid olive grey-green of adults as the snake matures, a process that is complete between 1½ to three years of age and when the snake reaches a length of 18 to 30 inches (46–76 cm).

The Eastern Yellow-Bellied Racer is found across a wide geographic range in the United States, including states from Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, east to Iowa, south to Texas, and southeast to Louisiana. It also has isolated populations in Canada. This snake favors open habitats such as grasslands, brushlands, farmlands, ranches, and sparsely treed woodlands. In Canada, its habitat consists of mixed-grass prairie and sagebrush.

Racers are diurnal and active predators known for their speed. They are often quick to bite if handled and do not typically fare well in captivity due to their nervous disposition. When alarmed, they may try to escape quickly and sometimes vibrate their tails. If captured, they struggle violently, bite viciously, and may discharge musk and waste matter.

The diet of the Eastern Yellow-Bellied Racer primarily includes rodents, lizards, frogs, and as juveniles, various kinds of soft-bodied insects. They are also known to feed on baby turtles, small snakes, and the nestlings of ground-dwelling birds or mammals. Adults have been observed to climb trees to consume eggs and young birds. In Saskatchewan, their diet consists mostly of insects such as grasshoppers, as well as other small animals like rodents, birds, and frogs.

In Saskatchewan, the Eastern Yellow-Bellied Racer is listed as an endangered species, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect this unique subspecies and its habitat. In summary, the Eastern Yellow-Bellied Racer is a fascinating snake species with distinct juvenile and adult colorations, a preference for open habitats, and a diet that varies with age. Its behavior is characterized by its agility and speed, making it a proficient predator in its natural environment.

The Speckled Kingsnake (Lampropeltis holbrooki), also known as the “salt-and-pepper snake,” is a nonvenomous species endemic to the United States, recognized for its distinctive black body adorned with yellow or white speckles. This species exhibits a range of behaviors, dietary preferences, reproductive patterns, and habitat choices that contribute to its unique ecological niche.

Speckled Kingsnakes prefer wetter environments compared to other kingsnakes, favoring swamps, rivers, and marshes. However, they are also known to inhabit dry areas such as woodlands, grassy fields, and prairies. Their adaptability allows them to thrive in a variety of habitats, from riparian forests to open prairies, and they are found across the central and southern United States, from southern Iowa to the Gulf of Mexico.

The diet of the Speckled Kingsnake is diverse, encompassing small mammals, birds, frogs, lizards, reptile eggs, and other snakes, including venomous species. They are known for their ability to consume prey as large or larger than themselves, utilizing constriction to subdue their meals. This snake’s diet can vary based on its habitat, with some populations primarily feeding on reptiles and their eggs. Despite being referred to as “cannibalistic,” they typically do not consume other Speckled Kingsnakes.

Speckled Kingsnakes exhibit a range of behaviors that aid in their survival and interaction with their environment. When threatened, they may shake their tail like a rattlesnake, expel musk and feces, or bite as a deterrent to predators. Generally, they are docile and may become more amenable to handling over time. They are active from spring through late fall, with activity patterns shifting from diurnal in cooler months to nocturnal during the hotter summer months to avoid extreme temperatures.

Mating occurs from March through May, with females likely depositing eggs in late May and June. The number of eggs can vary significantly, from about six in smaller females to at least 23 in larger ones. Hatchlings appear in August and September. Speckled Kingsnakes reach sexual maturity at approximately two years of age, and courtship involves males competing for females through physical displays and pheromone trails. The gestation period is about 60 days, and females may lay more than one clutch of eggs per season. In summary, the Speckled Kingsnake is a versatile and adaptable species with a broad range across the central and southern United States. Its preference for both wet and dry habitats, varied diet, distinctive defensive behaviors, and reproductive strategies contribute to its success in a wide range of environments.

The Eastern garter snake (Thamnophis sirtalis sirtalis) is a medium-sized, non-venomous snake native to North America. Here is detailed information about its habitat, diet, behavior, reproduction, and venom:

Eastern garter snakes are highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of environments. They are commonly found in forests, grassy fields, marshes, and areas near bodies of water such as streams, ponds, and lakes. They also inhabit suburban and urban areas, often seen in gardens and parks. These snakes prefer moist environments but can also be found in drier areas.

Eastern garter snakes are carnivorous and have a varied diet that primarily includes amphibians like frogs and toads, as well as earthworms, slugs, and fish. They are also known to eat small mammals, birds, and other snakes on occasion. Their diet can vary significantly based on their local environment and available prey.

These snakes are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day, but they can also exhibit activity during the night. Eastern garter snakes are known for their ability to adapt to different temperatures and are active for a longer period of the year compared to other snakes. They are generally solitary but can be found in large numbers during the hibernation period in communal dens. When threatened, they may exhibit defensive behaviors such as hissing, striking, and releasing a foul-smelling musk.

Eastern garter snakes are ovoviviparous, which means they give birth to live young rather than laying eggs. Mating occurs in the spring after the snakes emerge from hibernation and sometimes again in the fall. Females can give birth to between 10 and 40 young, typically in the summer. The young are independent from birth and receive no parental care.

While Eastern garter snakes are not venomous, they do possess a mild neurotoxin in their saliva, which is harmless to humans but can immobilize small prey such as earthworms and amphibians. This neurotoxin is not dangerous to humans, and bites typically result in minimal symptoms, such as slight swelling or itching. Overall, the Eastern garter snake is a common and widespread species known for its adaptability to various environments and its role in controlling pest populations.

Ribbon snakes, belonging to the species Thamnophis sauritus, are slender, non-venomous snakes native to Eastern North America. They exhibit a variety of behaviors, dietary preferences, reproductive strategies, and habitat choices that are crucial for their survival and reproduction.

Ribbon snakes are semi-aquatic and are seldom found far from water. They thrive in and near aquatic habitats such as ponds, swamps, bogs, stream edges, marshes, and lakes, often in areas with high vegetation. These habitats provide both the water necessary for their survival and the vegetation that offers concealment from predators. Ribbon snakes may also be found in wet woodlands, preferring sunny sites and sometimes venturing into open swamps or near woodland ponds.

Carnivorous by nature, ribbon snakes primarily feed on amphibians such as frogs, toads, tadpoles, and salamanders. They also consume small fish, spiders, earthworms, and newts. Their diet is influenced by their habitat, with a preference for prey found in or near aquatic environments. Ribbon snakes use their auditory and visual senses to hunt, capturing prey with speed and agility.

Ribbon snakes are diurnal, most active during the daytime, especially in or near water where they hunt their prey. They are excellent swimmers and can also climb in low bushes. These snakes are generally solitary but may hibernate in groups. They are sensitive to vibrations and have sharp vision, which aids in detecting predators and prey. When threatened, ribbon snakes rarely exhibit aggression; instead, they rely on camouflage or flee into dense vegetation or water to escape. They may also secrete a foul-smelling musk as a deterrent.

Ribbon snakes are ovoviviparous, giving birth to live young once or twice each year, typically in the summer. The breeding season begins in the spring, after hibernation, with males seeking out females for mating. Litter sizes can vary widely, from 4 to 27 snakelets, depending on the subspecies and environmental conditions. The young are born precocial, well-developed, and receive no parental care. Ribbon snakes reach sexual maturity after 2-3 years of age.

While ribbon snakes are currently classified as Least Concern (LC) on the IUCN Red List, with stable population numbers, they face threats from habitat loss, pollution, road mortality, and illegal collection. Conservation efforts focus on preserving wetland habitats and ensuring stable amphibian populations, which are crucial for the ribbon snake’s diet.In summary, ribbon snakes are adaptable, semi-aquatic predators with specific habitat preferences and dietary needs. Their survival is closely tied to the health of aquatic ecosystems, making their presence an indicator of wetland quality.

Everything you need to know about Lone Star snakes | HOUSTON LIFE | KPRC 2

FAQ

Does Houston have a snake problem?

Did you know that Houston is host to over 23 varieties of snake? Oh, not all of these varieties will end up in your house. Water snakes will stay in the water, and won’t come anywhere near your home. Quite a few others, however, will show up because your home already has another pest (rats).

Are there any poisonous snakes in Houston?

Southern Copperheads are most likely to be found in areas with trees. They can be very well camouflaged on forest floors covered in leaf litter. They are also rather shy snakes, have relatively milder venom than other area venomous snakes, and are not usually likely to bite.

Are there rattlesnakes in Houston, TX?

• Rattlesnakes are not uncommon in Houston:

  While rattlesnakes are found in and around Houston, they are not as common as other venomous snakes like copperheads or cottonmouths. 

• Western Diamondback:

  The Western Diamondback is the most common rattlesnake species in the Houston area, and it can reach up to seven feet long. 

• Urban areas are less ideal for rattlesnakes:

  Rattlesnakes typically prefer larger, more open areas for hunting, mating, and raising their young. Smaller yards in urban areas may not provide enough space for them. 

• Rattlesnake season:

  Rattlesnake season in Texas begins around late February to early March. 

• Other rattlesnakes in Houston:

  Besides the Western Diamondback, other rattlesnakes found in the Houston area include the Timber Rattlesnake, Western Massasauga, and the rare Western Pygmy Rattlesnake. 

What’s the most common snake in Texas?

• Texas Rat Snake (Pantherophis obsoletus):

  • It’s a large, non-venomous snake, often reaching up to 6 feet in length. 

  • They are known to be good climbers and are often found in chicken coops, where they may eat eggs and chicks. 

  • They have a slender body with large dark patches on a background of lighter tan or gray. 

  • They are often mistaken for rattlesnakes. 

• Other Common Snakes in Texas:

  • Rattlesnakes: While not the most common overall, rattlesnakes, particularly the Western diamondback, are a common venomous species. 

  • Garter Snakes: Garter snakes are another common, non-venomous species found throughout the state. 

  • Copperheads: Copperheads are a venomous species found in the eastern half of Texas. 

  • Cottonmouth: Another venomous species, found in the eastern part of Texas. 

  • Coral Snakes: A venomous species, though less common than other venomous snakes. 

• Venomous Snakes in Texas:

  • Texas is home to 4 venomous snake species: cottonmouth, rattlesnakes, copperheads, and coral snakes. 

  • Pit vipers, which include copperheads, cottonmouths, and rattlesnakes, are the most common type of venomous snakes in Texas. 

• Snake Safety:

  • Snakes serve a valuable function in the environment and do not prey on humans, but they can be dangerous if surprised or cornered. 

  • It’s important to be aware of your surroundings, especially in areas where snakes are common, and to avoid reaching into burrows or other places where snakes might be hiding.