Snakes in Texas: A Guide to Common Species

Texas is home to a diverse array of snake species, both venomous and non-venomous. With over 50 different types of snakes found across the state, it’s important for Texans to be able to identify the snakes they may encounter in their backyard, on a hike, or elsewhere. This guide provides an overview of some of the most common snake species found in Texas, how to identify them, and tips for safely coexisting with these misunderstood reptiles.

Venomous Snakes

Venomous snakes found in Texas include rattlesnakes, copperheads, cottonmouths, and coral snakes While potentially dangerous if provoked, these snakes play an important role in the local ecosystems and will typically avoid confrontation if given space

Rattlesnakes

Texas has 10 species of rattlesnake, more than any other state Some of the most common include

• Western Diamondback Rattlesnake: The most widespread rattlesnake in Texas, identified by dark diamond patterns down the back. Grows up to 7 feet long.

• Timber Rattlesnake: Large, heavy-bodied pit viper with dark crossbands on back. Found in eastern Texas. Grows over 5 feet long.

• Prairie Rattlesnake: Slender rattlesnake with greenish-gray or brown blotched pattern. Grows up to 5 feet long. Prefers open prairies and grasslands.

• Rock Rattlesnake: Small rattlesnake (max 3 feet long) with greenish-gray bands. Lives in rocky areas of west Texas.

• Blacktail Rattlesnake: Yellow, olive, or gray with diamond or banded pattern and distinct black tail. Grows 2-4 feet long.

When threatened, rattlesnakes make an unmistakable buzzing sound with their tail. Give them space and move away slowly if you hear this warning rattle.

Copperheads

Copperheads are identified by their hourglass pattern and coppery-colored heads. Three species found in Texas include:

• Eastern Copperhead: Found in eastern forests and woodlands. Grows 2-3 feet long.

• Broad-banded Copperhead: Tan body with wide, dark crossbands across back. Scattered throughout central/west Texas.

• Trans-Pecos Copperhead: Small copperhead (20-30 inches long) found by springs in southwest Texas.

Copperhead bites are rarely fatal but very painful. Seek medical attention if bitten.

Cottonmouths

Also called water moccasins, cottonmouths are semi-aquatic pit vipers found in lakes, rivers, and swamps of eastern Texas. They have a dark, thick-bodied appearance with a whitish mouth interior they display when threatened. Grow up to 48 inches long. Cottonmouth venom can cause tissue damage; medical care should be promptly sought if bitten.

Coral Snakes

The Texas coral snake is a small, vibrantly colored venomous snake found in parts of south and west Texas. Remember the rhyme “red touch yellow, kill a fellow” to distinguish from harmless lookalikes. Bites can be dangerous but are rare; this shy snake will nearly always flee rather than bite.

Non-Venomous Snakes

The majority of snake species found in Texas are non-venomous and generally harmless to humans. These include:

• Western Ratsnake: Common large (up to 6 feet long) black snake found statewide. Excellent climbers that prey on rodents and birds.

• Western Ribbon Snake: Slender green snake with yellow-white stripes. Grows up to 3 feet long. Lives near water.

• Diamondback Watersnake: Olive green watersnake with dark diamond pattern on back. Found in ponds and rivers in southeast Texas.

• Rough Earthsnake: Tiny (8-12 inches long) brown snake that lives underground. Harmless to handle.

• Eastern Hognose Snake: Stout brown or gray snake with upturned nose. Grows up to 3 feet long. Prefers sandy soils. Famous for playing dead when threatened.

• Texas Ratsnake: Heavy-bodied constrictor snake that can grow over 6 feet long. Kills prey by suffocation. Common in wooded and semi-arid areas.

• Speckled Kingsnake: Black snake with yellow speckles, found in fields and forests. Feeds on rodents, lizards, and other snakes.

• Coachwhip Snake: Fast-moving slender snake with tan or black coloration. Largest reach 8 feet long but most are 2-4 feet. Preys on lizards, rodents, birds.

• Garter Snake: Small terrestrial snakes with bright striped patterns. Three species found in Texas. Harmless to humans.

Non-venomous snakes are generally shy creatures that play an important role as both predator and prey in local ecosystems. They help control pest species like rodents and are an essential food source for many birds of prey. If you encounter one in your yard, simply give it adequate space and allow it to move along on its way. Avoid killing snakes – they are mostly beneficial neighbors!

Snake Safety Tips

Here are some key tips to safely coexist with snakes in Texas:

• Learn how to identify venomous species. Reference guides can help you distinguish dangerous snakes.

• Give snakes space and move away slowly if you encounter one. Do not try to kill or handle, even non-venomous species.

• Wear protective footwear like high boots in areas where snakes may be present. Don’t reach into spaces you can’t see into.

• Eliminate habitat like woodpiles and overgrown vegetation that encourages snakes near your home. Keep grass trimmed.

• Seal any holes or gaps in your home’s foundation that could allow entry. Use mesh screen on vents.

• Supervise kids and pets when outdoors in snake territory. Avoid walking through high grasses.

• If bitten by a venomous snake, remain calm and seek immediate medical attention. Note the snake’s appearance to aid treatment.

Understanding and respecting snakes is key to safely coexisting with these unique reptiles in Texas. While certain species can pose danger, most snakes want to avoid confrontation and play a vital environmental role. With proper identification skills and sensible precautions, Texans can confidently share the outdoors with these fascinating creatures.