How to Identify Snakes in Mississippi That Are Black With Gold Diamonds on the Back

This is the body of one of the most dangerous snakes in the United States, the Eastern Diamondback rattlesnake.

Of the thousands of species of snakes in the world, about 140 of them are native to the United States, and about 40 of those are found in Mississippi; six of those are venomous, thus making them very dangerous. Though you should never approach a wild snake, it is still important to be able to recognize a snake if you come across it. Some patterns that you might recognize on a snake are primary colors and diamond patterns.

Instructions

1. Realize that you may be dealing with an Eastern Diamondback rattlesnake. This is the most dangerous snake in North America and it is the only venomous species that conforms to these color patterns. This snake is identifiable by the rattle on its tail. If you are bitten, you must seek emergency medical assistance to avoid death. Untreated, this venom can kill a human in hours.

2. Know that if the snake doesn't have a rattle then it may be a Southern Water Snake. These snakes are nonvenomous and much smaller than the Eastern Diamondback. They average 20 to 40 inches long. Though these snakes are known to bite when threatened, the bite is mostly harmless, other than possible inflammation at the site from the snake's saliva. These snakes mostly inhabit slow-moving and stagnant water.

3. Look for the markings of a Common Kingsnake. These snakes are much more solidly black with very defined bands that may appear as diamonds to the untrained eye. These snakes are also nonvenomous and rattle-less. They are about 2 to 4 feet long and hunt anything they can overpower. It is very important to note that this snake has a habit of rustling its tail in dry leaves to mimic rattlesnakes. Also note that this snake will discharge a foul odor or strike if threatened.

4. Carry pictures and short descriptions of these snakes around with you if you are in a habit of encountering potentially dangerous snakes in Mississippi. Regardless of what type of snake you believe the specimen to be, do not approach it, just let it be.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are bit by any venomous snake, call for help immediately.

References

• United States Air Force -- Public Health Informationa and Resources: Mississippi's Nonvenomous Snakes
• United States Air Force -- Public Health Informationa and Resources: Mississippi's Venomous Snakes
• California Herps: Nerodia Fasciata - Southern Watersnake
• DesertUSA: Common Kingsnake