How to Identify Snakeskin

Examine a shed skin to determine a snake's species.

As they grow, snakes regularly shed their entire skins by rubbing against a solid object. If you live near snakes, you may occasionally come across a shed skin next to a tree or building. Though shed skins are pale and monochrome, they possess detailed characteristics of the snakes they belonged to. Inspecting snake skin is a safe way to learn about the snake species that live around your home. Most snakes are non-venomous and benefit humans by decreasing the rodent population.

Things You'll Need

• Field guide

Instructions

1. Examine the snakeskin's tail for the presence of a rattle. The timber rattlesnake lives throughout most of the United States, and other varieties are common in the Southwest.

2. Look under the tail for a row of scales. Most venomous snakes have a single row, while most non-venomous snakes have a double row. The coral snake, however, has a double row, despite being venomous.

3. Examine the snakeskin's head. Venomous snakes typically have a triangular head, while non-venomous snakes usually have an oval-shaped head.

4. Look between the snake's eyes for a hole, or pit. This indicates a venomous snake.

5. Look at the scale patterns to determine the specific type of snake. A python, for example, has a characteristic diamond pattern. Consult a field guide to compare the snakeskin's patterns with those of snakes native to your area.

References

• Wilderness College: Identify Snakes; A How-To Guide; Filip Tkaczyk
• Outdoor Alabama; Is That Snake Poisonous?; Randy Liles
• Green Customs: Identification of Snake Skins