The state in the deep south is home to 47 different species of native snakes, seven of which are the poisonous ones. Your trip arrangements, on the other hand, should not be altered by this.
The vast majority of interactions with snakes are unharmful. The only time these interesting creatures would attack is when they perceive that they are in danger.
They simply want to be left alone. If you are armed with the appropriate information, you will be able to determine the precise location of these snakes, how to recognize them, and what to do in the event that you come across one in the wild.
Continue reading for a guide to the venomous snakes that may be found in Louisiana so that you’ll be able to appreciate everything the Pelican state has to offer while remaining safe in the south.
Eastern Coral Snake
Seven of the 47 native snake species found in the deep south state are venomous. But don’t let that alter your itinerary. The majority of snake interactions are amicable.
These amazing creatures will only attack when they feel threatened and simply want to be left alone. With the correct knowledge, you’ll be able to locate these snakes with precision.
The average length of an eastern coral snake is two to three feet. They deceive any assailants by waving their tail in the air and tucking their head under their body when threatened.
The majority of bites happen when they are handled, even though their bite is extremely poisonous. In addition to being incredibly shy, eastern coral snakes prefer to hide and are rarely seen. In Louisiana, the last known encounter took place in the 1980s.
Although they can be found in wide meadows, these snakes prefer dry, forested environments.
They usually search for lizards, tiny snakes, and rodents among the leaf litter on the forest floor. They are classified as “imperiled” in Louisiana due to a decline in population brought on by habitat destruction.
Discover how to spot them and what to do if you spot one in the wild. To be safe in the south and take advantage of everything that Louisiana has to offer, read on for a guide to the state’s poisonous snakes.
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Southern Copperhead
The southern states, including Louisiana’s woods and forests, are home to the Southern Copperhead, or Agkistrodon contortrix contortrix, as the name implies.
Known for its copper or rust-like coloring on the top of its huge, triangular head, this medium-sized snake can reach a length of 4 feet.
Their body can have hourglass-shaped dark brown to reddish-brown bands and range in color from pale tan to pinkish-tan. A characteristic feature of young Southern Copperheads is their yellow-tipped tail.
This snake mostly consumes cicadas, frogs, and rodents. They can lie still for extended periods of time and typically remain disguised, which makes it risky to stroll the paths because you may easily step on or close to them.
The Southern Copperhead lifts its head from the ground and coils up when disturbed. As a warning, it could also vibrate its tail.
Because copperhead venom is not particularly strong, it rarely causes death. However, you should get medical help immediately if you are bitten.
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Texas Coral Snake
Despite being named after its home state, the Micrurus Tener didn’t remain there. Louisiana and Arkansas are also home to the Texas Coral Snake.
These animals are extremely dangerous and need to be handled carefully, just as other coral snakes.
This snake is distinguished by its black, yellow, and red bands, just like its species partner, the Eastern Coral Snake.
The red rings may contain black specks, while the yellow circles are narrow. Texas coral snakes can reach a maximum length of three feet. They feed insects, lizards, and small rodents and are shy, preferring to remain hidden, and bite rather than strike.
The southwestern, central, and northern parts of Louisiana are home to these snakes.
Timber Rattlesnake
Almost every eastern state is home to Crotalus horridus, also called the Canebrake Rattlesnake.
This thick-bodied snake, which is typically 3 to 5 feet long, has dark spots along its back and a reddish-brown stripe down its spine. They also have huge, triangular heads, elliptical pupils, and the distinctive black rattle at the end of their tail.
Although they can be found across Louisiana, with the exception of coastal marshes, the Timber Rattlesnake favors woods and forests, particularly hardwood areas.
They have even been spotted in the southern highlands between Morgan City and Patterson, as well as the islands surrounding Cote Blanche Bay.
Wood rats and squirrels are the main prey of timber rattlesnakes. They prefer to curl up close to covered spots like trees, logs, or thickets.
The majority of encounters with this species take place when the seasons shift from spring to summer and fall to winter, when the snakes are moving into their hibernation or feeding locations.
Western Pygmy Rattlesnake
Usually reaching a length of two feet, this little yet poisonous snake has a reddish band down its back and is pale grey, tan, or reddish in color.
The cheek stripe, a black band that extends from the eye to the jaw, is another characteristic of these rattlers. They have elliptical pupils and a broad, triangular head like other rattlesnakes.
Compared to larger rattlesnake species, the Western Pygmy Rattlesnake’s rattle is not as striking. Actually, it’s easy to miss because the vibration has a low buzzing sound that sounds like an insect. They consume snakes, lizards, and frogs.
The Florida Parishes in eastern Louisiana, as well as the northern and central regions of the state, are home to Sistrurus miliarius streckeri. Pine flatwoods and upland
Western Cottonmouth
This poisonous viper, also known as the Western Cottonmouth, Water Moccasin, or Agkistrodon piscivorus leucostoma, has a frightening reputation.
Cottonmouths derive their name from the way their jaws expand wide in response to threats, revealing their puffy white gums. Even though it appears hostile, the snake is merely acting this way.
Since they don’t want to attack, they are cautioning you to stay away. When you come across a snake, the best course of action is to do nothing. Simply leave its territory and bide your time until it departs.
Throughout Louisiana, cottonmouths can be found, usually in bodies of water like lakes, streams, ponds, and swamps. They consume fish, frogs, watersnakes, and small mammals and have a stable population.
Olive, black, or dark brown are the colors of Western Cottonmouths. They have a dark stripe on either side of their head and dark, jagged bands all over their body. Young snakes have a yellow tip on their tail and are more colorful.
Snakes and humans have traditionally had a tense relationship, but this is primarily due to fear and false information. You may overcome your fear and remain composed if you encounter a venomous snake in Louisiana by taking the time to educate yourself about them.
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