How Can I Identify a Snake?

Unique colors can be one indicator of what snake you're dealing with.

There are nearly 3,000 species of snake to be found on the planet. Each individual species can be identified through a number of physical features. Not all snakes are poisonous and many snakes do not pose a threat to humans. However, if you happen to find a snake it is usually best to air on the side of caution and leave it be. There are several ways in which to identify a snake without picking it up.

Instructions

1. Examine the color and pattern of the snake's skin. Snakes often have unique color schemes, such as the Coral snake's famous red and yellow bands or the Diamondback Rattlesnake's black diamonds. It may be hard to identify a snake using color alone as snakes move quite quickly.

2. Assess the snake's size. Snakes come in a wide variety of sizes and can be anywhere from 6 inches to longer than 6 feet. The size of a snake is often the easiest visual identifier of its species.

3. Observe the snake's movement and listen for key sounds like rattling or hissing. Some snakes can climb trees, some move sideways and some stop moving entirely when confronted with a predator.

4. Look at the snake's head. The head and neck of a snake can help you narrow down the species. Snakes with broad, triangular heads are often poisonous vipers, while snakes with small heads are more commonly constrictors.

5. Think about where you are or consult with a regional guidebook for wildlife. Knowing which snakes appear in your area can be very helpful in identifying the one in front of you. For instance, rattlesnakes are usually found in the American southwest, but are very rare in the northeast.

Tips & Warnings

• If you see a snake in your yard or home it may be best to contact your local animal control department. You should never attempt to handle a wild snake.

References

• California Herps: Identifying California Snakes
• Snakes and Frogs: Snake Identification Characteristics