Missouri is home to a diverse range of snakes, with over 50 species found across the state’s forests, grasslands, wetlands, and rocky hillsides. These Missourian snakes play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance by controlling rodent and insect populations. While some species are non-venomous and completely harmless, a few venomous snakes also inhabit the region, requiring caution and awareness.
Identifying snakes in Missouri can be challenging due to their varied colors, patterns, and habitats. Some, like the Eastern Copperhead, are well-camouflaged in leaf litter, while others, like the Rough Green Snake, stand out with bright green scales. Learning to recognize these reptiles can help people appreciate their importance in the ecosystem and reduce unnecessary fear.
This guide will introduce you to 50 Missourian snakes, complete with pictures and key identification traits. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, hiker, or simply curious about the snakes in your area, understanding these species can enhance your outdoor experience and promote coexistence with Missouri’s fascinating wildlife.
Types of Non-venomous snakes in Missourin
Western Worm Snake (Carphophis vermis)
The Western Worm Snake is a small, burrowing species commonly found across Missouri. It has a smooth, dark purplish-brown body with a contrasting pink or reddish belly. This secretive snake prefers moist, wooded hillsides and is often hidden beneath rocks, logs, or leaf litter.
Throughout the state, this snake primarily feeds on earthworms, using its keen sense of smell to locate prey underground. Its small, pointed head allows it to navigate through soil and decaying vegetation with ease. Being non-venomous and completely harmless, it is rarely encountered by people.
Although elusive, the Western Worm Snake is widespread and thrives in many environments. It is most active during spring and fall, particularly after rain.
Northern Scarlet Snake (Cemophora coccinea copei)
The Northern Scarlet Snake is a strikingly colored, non-venomous species found in the southern regions of Missouri. Its red, black, and yellow or white pattern resembles the venomous coral snake but follows a distinct arrangement. This small, slender snake typically grows between 14 and 20 inches long.
It is highly secretive, spending most of its time burrowing in loose, sandy soil. Nocturnal by nature, the Northern Scarlet Snake primarily preys on reptile eggs but may also consume small lizards and rodents. Due to its underground lifestyle, sightings are rare.
This species favors dry, forested areas with well-drained soils. While not endangered, habitat loss poses a potential threat.
Eastern Yellowbelly Racer (Coluber constrictor flaviventris)
The Eastern Yellowbelly Racer is a fast-moving, non-venomous snake commonly seen in open fields and grasslands throughout Missouri. It has a slender, olive-green to bluish-gray body with a distinct yellow or cream-colored underside. Some individuals can reach lengths of up to five feet.
Known for its agility, this species swiftly escapes threats by relying on its speed. It is an active hunter, preying on rodents, frogs, lizards, and other small animals. Racers are often spotted basking in sunny areas or moving through brush in search of food.
Despite their defensive behavior when cornered, these snakes are not dangerous to humans. They play an essential role in controlling pest populations. Their adaptability allows them to flourish in both rural and suburban areas, making them one of the most commonly encountered snakes in the state.
Prairie Ring-Necked Snake (Diadophis punctatus arnyi)
The Prairie Ring-Necked Snake is a small, secretive reptile native to Missouri’s woodlands and prairies. It has a dark gray or bluish-black body, accented by a bright orange or yellow ring around its neck. The underside is often a vivid shade of orange or red, contrasting sharply with its darker back.
This nocturnal snake spends much of its time concealed under rocks, logs, or leaf litter. It preys primarily on earthworms, slugs, and insects, using mild venom to subdue small prey. Though secretive, it is relatively common in natural areas across the state.
When threatened, the Prairie Ring-Necked Snake coils its tail and exposes its brightly colored belly as a warning display. Harmless to humans, it plays a vital ecological role in controlling invertebrate populations. Its presence is an indicator of healthy soil and forest environments.
Mississippi Green Water Snake (Nerodia cyclopion)
The Mississippi Green Water Snake is a medium-sized, non-venomous species inhabiting wetlands in southeastern Missouri. With a thick, olive-green to brown body and dark markings, it blends well into its swampy surroundings. Adults typically grow between 30 and 45 inches long.
This aquatic snake is often found in slow-moving waters, including marshes, swamps, and oxbow lakes. It primarily feeds on fish and amphibians, relying on its excellent swimming abilities to capture prey. Unlike some other water snakes, it is less likely to be seen basking and often remains hidden in aquatic vegetation.
Due to its defensive nature, it is sometimes mistaken for the venomous cottonmouth, though it poses no threat to humans. While not currently endangered, habitat destruction and water pollution threaten its population.
Yellow-Bellied Water Snake (Nerodia erythrogaster flavigaster)
The Yellow-Bellied Water Snake is a large, non-venomous reptile frequently found in Missouri’s wetlands, rivers, and lakes. It has a solid olive-green or brownish body with a distinct yellow or cream-colored underside. Adults typically range from 30 to 48 inches in length.
An excellent swimmer, this snake actively hunts fish, amphibians, and small aquatic creatures. It often hides in dense vegetation near the water’s edge, waiting for prey to pass by. Unlike venomous water snakes, it relies on constriction to subdue its catch.
Despite being harmless, this species is known for its defensive behavior, flattening its head and releasing a foul-smelling musk when disturbed. It plays an important role in controlling aquatic prey populations.
Broad-Banded Water Snake (Nerodia fasciata confluens)
The Broad-Banded Water Snake is a non-venomous, semi-aquatic species found in the southern wetlands of Missouri. It has a stout body with broad, irregular reddish-brown or dark brown bands against a lighter background. Unlike some water snakes, its markings remain distinct even as it matures.
This species thrives in swamps, marshes, and slow-moving waters, where it primarily feeds on fish and amphibians. It is an opportunistic hunter, using its strong body to capture prey in shallow waters. Although often mistaken for venomous species like the cottonmouth, it is completely harmless to humans.
When threatened, the Broad-Banded Water Snake may flatten its body and release a foul-smelling musk as a defense mechanism. Despite this, it plays an important role in maintaining balanced aquatic ecosystems.
Diamond-Backed Water Snake (Nerodia rhombifer rhombifer)
The Diamond-Backed Water Snake is one of the largest water snakes in Missouri, often reaching lengths of up to four feet. Its olive-green to brown body is covered in diamond-shaped dark markings, giving it a distinctive patterned appearance. Its keeled scales make it feel rough to the touch.
This snake is commonly found near rivers, lakes, and swamps, where it hunts fish and amphibians. It is an excellent swimmer, often seen basking on logs or overhanging branches. Unlike some water snakes, it rarely ventures far from aquatic environments, preferring to stay near its food sources.
Despite its aggressive defense when threatened, including biting and musking, it is not venomous. Many people mistake it for the venomous cottonmouth, leading to unnecessary persecution.
Northern Water Snake (Nerodia sipedon sipedon)
The Northern Water Snake is a widespread, non-venomous species found in a variety of aquatic habitats throughout Missouri. It has a thick, dark brown or grayish body with reddish-brown bands that fade as the snake matures. Its coloration allows it to blend in with muddy riverbanks and rocky shorelines.
Active during the day and night, this species is an opportunistic hunter, feeding on fish, frogs, and small aquatic creatures. It often basks on rocks or branches overhanging the water, quickly diving in when disturbed. Northern Water Snakes are known to be aggressive if handled, frequently biting in self-defense.
Although harmless, their resemblance to venomous cottonmouths often leads to mistaken identity. They play a crucial role in controlling fish and amphibian populations in Missouri’s freshwater ecosystems.
Rough Green Snake (Opheodrys aestivus aestivus)
The Rough Green Snake is a slender, arboreal species with a bright green body and a pale yellow or white underside. Found throughout Missouri, this non-venomous snake is well adapted to living in trees, shrubs, and dense vegetation. Its keeled scales give it a slightly rough texture, setting it apart from its smoother relatives.
Unlike many snakes, the Rough Green Snake primarily feeds on insects and spiders, making it an important predator of pest species. It relies on its excellent camouflage to remain undetected, often moving slowly through leaves and branches. When threatened, it freezes in place rather than attempting to flee.
This species thrives in forested areas near water sources, such as streams and swamps. Due to habitat destruction and pesticide use, populations have declined in some areas.
Smooth Green Snake (Opheodrys vernalis)
The Smooth Green Snake is a small, slender species known for its vibrant green coloration and smooth, glossy scales. Unlike its rough-scaled relative, this snake has a sleek texture, making it easy to distinguish. It is found in grassy meadows, prairies, and open woodlands across Missouri.
Feeding primarily on insects, caterpillars, and spiders, the Smooth Green Snake is an important natural pest controller. It is a gentle and non-aggressive species, rarely biting even when handled. Its bright green body provides excellent camouflage among grass and foliage, helping it evade predators.
This snake prefers undisturbed natural habitats and is sensitive to environmental changes. Pesticide use and habitat loss threaten its populations in some regions.
Bullsnake (Pituophis catenifer sayi)
The Bullsnake is one of the largest snake species found in Missouri, often exceeding six feet in length. It has a yellowish-tan body covered in dark brown blotches, giving it a pattern similar to that of a rattlesnake. When threatened, it hisses loudly and vibrates its tail, mimicking a venomous rattlesnake to deter predators.
This powerful constrictor preys on rodents, birds, and eggs, playing a vital role in controlling pest populations. It is commonly found in prairies, farmlands, and open woodlands, where it actively hunts during the day. Despite its intimidating display, the Bullsnake is completely harmless to humans.
Due to habitat loss and mistaken identity, Bullsnakes are sometimes killed unnecessarily. They are beneficial to farmers by reducing rodent populations.
Graham’s Crayfish Snake (Regina grahamii)
Graham’s Crayfish Snake is a medium-sized, semi-aquatic species found in wetlands, marshes, and slow-moving waters across Missouri. It has a brown to olive-colored body with faint stripes running down its length and a yellowish belly. Unlike many other water snakes, it has smooth scales, giving it a sleek appearance.
As its name suggests, this snake primarily feeds on crayfish, particularly soft-shelled individuals that have recently molted. It is a skilled hunter, using its strong jaws to grasp slippery prey. While it is most active at night, it may also be seen basking along the edges of waterways during the day.
Despite being harmless, Graham’s Crayfish Snake is elusive and not often encountered. It prefers undisturbed wetland habitats, which are increasingly threatened by human activity.
Midland Brown Snake (Storeria dekayi wrightorum)
The Midland Brown Snake is a small, secretive species commonly found in forests, grasslands, and suburban areas throughout Missouri. It has a slender body with a light brown or grayish coloration, often featuring a faint stripe down its back and small dark spots along its sides.
This snake primarily feeds on earthworms, slugs, and soft-bodied insects, making it a beneficial species for gardens and natural spaces. It is nocturnal and spends most of its time hidden under logs, rocks, or leaf litter. When disturbed, it rarely bites but may release a mild musk as a defense mechanism.
Due to its unassuming appearance and non-aggressive nature, the Midland Brown Snake often goes unnoticed. It thrives in both rural and urban environments, playing a role in controlling pest populations.
Northern Red-Bellied Snake (Storeria occipitomaculata occipitomaculata)
The Northern Red-Bellied Snake is a small, non-venomous species recognized by its striking red or orange underside. Its back varies from gray to reddish-brown, often with faint stripes or spots. This secretive snake is commonly found in wooded areas, fields, and moist habitats across Missouri.
It primarily feeds on slugs, earthworms, and small insects, using its quick reflexes to capture prey. Unlike many snakes, it does not rely on constriction but simply swallows its food whole. Though it rarely bites, it may flatten its body or curl its tail to reveal its bright belly when threatened.
This snake is an important part of the ecosystem, helping regulate invertebrate populations. It is well-adapted to cooler temperatures and remains active later into the fall than many other species.
Western Ribbon Snake (Thamnophis proximus proximus)
The Western Ribbon Snake is a slender, fast-moving species found near water sources such as streams, ponds, and wetlands in Missouri. It has a black or dark brown body with three distinct yellow or cream-colored stripes running down its length, giving it a ribbon-like appearance.
This agile snake preys on amphibians, fish, and small invertebrates, using its quick reflexes to capture prey. Unlike many other snakes, it actively hunts during the day and is often seen basking on logs or moving through vegetation. It is an excellent swimmer, frequently escaping into the water when threatened.
Although harmless, the Western Ribbon Snake is wary of humans and will flee at the first sign of danger. Its presence is a good indicator of healthy wetland ecosystems.
Plains Garter Snake (Thamnophis radix)
The Plains Garter Snake is a common, adaptable species found in grasslands, wetlands, and urban areas across Missouri. It has a dark body with a bold yellow or orange stripe running down its back, often accompanied by checkered side markings. Its coloration varies depending on its environment.
This species is an opportunistic feeder, consuming a diet of frogs, fish, insects, and even small rodents. It is active both day and night, frequently seen basking in the sun or hunting along the edges of ponds and fields. When threatened, it may release a foul-smelling musk but is otherwise harmless to humans.
The Plains Garter Snake is resilient and thrives in a variety of habitats, including suburban gardens and parks. It plays a vital role in controlling pest populations.
Common Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis)
The Common Garter Snake is one of the most widespread and recognizable snakes in Missouri. It has a long, slender body with three distinct stripes running down its length, which can vary in color from yellow to greenish or even blue. This adaptable species is found in forests, wetlands, grasslands, and urban areas.
Highly opportunistic, it feeds on a variety of prey, including amphibians, fish, earthworms, and small mammals. It is an active hunter and can be seen foraging during the day, especially after rain. When handled, it may release a musky odor but is completely non-venomous and poses no threat to humans.
The Common Garter Snake is an important part of Missouri’s ecosystem, helping control insect and amphibian populations. Its ability to thrive in different environments makes it one of the most frequently encountered snakes in the state.
Lined Snake (Tropidoclonion lineatum)
The Lined Snake is a small, secretive species commonly found in grasslands and open woodlands across Missouri. It has a brown or grayish body with three pale stripes running down its back, resembling a miniature garter snake. A distinguishing feature is the series of small black half-moon markings on its belly.
This nocturnal snake primarily feeds on earthworms, using its sharp, recurved teeth to grip its prey. It is often found under rocks, logs, or leaf litter during the day, emerging at night to hunt. Unlike some other small snakes, it does not constrict its prey but swallows it whole.
Due to its secretive nature, the Lined Snake is rarely encountered despite being relatively common. It thrives in undisturbed grassy areas and benefits from conservation efforts that protect prairie and woodland habitats.
Prairie Kingsnake (Lampropeltis calligaster)
The Prairie Kingsnake is a medium-sized, non-venomous species known for its smooth scales and subtle patterning. It has a light brown to grayish-tan body with darker blotches along its back, which help it blend into the grassy and woodland habitats of Missouri.
A powerful constrictor, the Prairie Kingsnake primarily preys on rodents, birds, and reptiles, including other snakes. It is often mistaken for venomous species due to its blotched pattern, but it is completely harmless to humans. When threatened, it may vibrate its tail and flatten its head to mimic a rattlesnake.
This species is beneficial for controlling rodent populations, making it a welcome presence in agricultural areas. It is adaptable to different environments and thrives in prairies, farmland, and open forests.
Speckled Kingsnake (Lampropeltis holbrooki)
The Speckled Kingsnake, sometimes called the “salt-and-pepper snake,” is easily recognized by its glossy black body covered in yellow or white speckles. This striking appearance provides effective camouflage among leaf litter and shaded forest floors across Missouri.
Like other kingsnakes, it is a strong constrictor that preys on rodents, birds, lizards, and even venomous snakes. It has a high resistance to snake venom, allowing it to hunt species that would be dangerous to other predators. It is an active forager, often found near water sources or in wooded areas.
The Speckled Kingsnake is docile and rarely bites when handled, making it a favorite among reptile enthusiasts. It plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance by controlling populations of prey animals.
Red Milk Snake (Lampropeltis triangulum syspila)
The Red Milk Snake is a beautifully patterned species with bright red, black, and cream-colored bands. It closely resembles the venomous coral snake, but its harmless nature makes it a valuable part of Missouri’s ecosystems. It is commonly found in forests, rocky hillsides, and grasslands.
This nocturnal predator feeds on rodents, lizards, and other small animals, using constriction to subdue its prey. It often takes shelter under logs, rocks, or abandoned burrows during the day. Its vibrant coloration serves as a form of mimicry, deterring potential predators.
Despite its beneficial role in rodent control, the Red Milk Snake is sometimes mistaken for venomous species and unnecessarily killed.
Great Plains Rat Snake (Pantherophis emoryi)
The Great Plains Rat Snake is a medium-sized species with a light brown or grayish body covered in darker blotches. Its patterning closely resembles that of a rattlesnake, but it lacks venom and poses no threat to humans. This snake is commonly found in prairies, rocky outcrops, and open woodlands.
An excellent climber, it often ventures into trees or barns in search of rodents, its primary food source. It is a skilled constrictor, wrapping around its prey before swallowing it whole. When threatened, it may vibrate its tail against dry leaves to mimic a rattlesnake, though it is completely harmless.
This species plays a vital role in controlling rodent populations, making it beneficial for farmers and rural communities.
Western Rat Snake (Pantherophis obsoletus)
The Western Rat Snake, also known as the Black Rat Snake, is one of the largest snakes in Missouri, often exceeding six feet in length. Juveniles have a gray body with dark blotches, but as they mature, they develop a nearly solid black coloration. Their bellies are typically lighter with some checkering.
A skilled climber, this snake frequently ascends trees to raid bird nests or seek shelter. It primarily feeds on rodents, birds, and eggs, using constriction to subdue its prey. Though it may hiss and strike when threatened, it is non-venomous and plays an essential role in keeping rodent populations in check.
Despite its intimidating size, the Western Rat Snake is beneficial and harmless to humans. It thrives in forests, farmland, and even urban areas where rodent populations are abundant.
Western Fox Snake (Pantherophis ramspotti)
The Western Fox Snake is a medium to large non-venomous species with a tan or yellowish-brown body covered in dark brown blotches. Its belly is checkered with black and yellow, giving it a distinctive appearance. Often mistaken for rattlesnakes, these snakes lack a rattle but may vibrate their tails when threatened.
This species is a skilled constrictor, feeding primarily on rodents, birds, and eggs. It is an excellent climber and may be found in trees or barns while hunting for prey. When disturbed, it may coil and strike defensively, though it is harmless to humans.
The Western Fox Snake thrives in prairies, open woodlands, and farmlands, making it a valuable predator for controlling rodent populations.
Plains Hog-Nosed Snake (Heterodon nasicus nasicus)
The Plains Hog-Nosed Snake is a small to medium-sized species known for its upturned snout, which it uses for burrowing. Its coloration varies from yellowish-brown to gray, with darker blotches along its back that provide excellent camouflage in its sandy, open habitat.
This snake has a unique defensive display, flattening its head, hissing loudly, and even playing dead by flipping onto its back with its mouth open. Despite its dramatic behavior, it is completely harmless. It primarily feeds on amphibians, particularly toads, using specialized enzymes to neutralize their toxins.
Found in grasslands and sandy prairies, the Plains Hog-Nosed Snake is well adapted to dry environments. Its burrowing habits help it escape predators and extreme temperatures.
Eastern Hog-Nosed Snake (Heterodon platirhinos)
The Eastern Hog-Nosed Snake is a medium-sized species with a broad head, stout body, and an upturned snout. Its coloration is highly variable, ranging from yellow and brown to black, often with dark blotches. This species is famous for its dramatic defensive displays when threatened.
It primarily preys on amphibians, particularly toads, using its specialized rear fangs to puncture and deflate them before swallowing. When disturbed, it may hiss, spread its neck like a cobra, and even roll onto its back to feign death. Despite this intimidating act, it is completely non-venomous and harmless to humans.
The Eastern Hog-Nosed Snake thrives in woodlands, grasslands, and sandy riverbanks.
Eastern Coachwhip (Masticophis flagellum flagellum)
The Eastern Coachwhip is a long, slender, and fast-moving snake, often reaching lengths of over six feet. Its body transitions from black on the head and upper body to a lighter tan or reddish color toward the tail, resembling the braided leather of a coachwhip.
This snake is highly active during the day, using its speed and keen eyesight to hunt lizards, small mammals, birds, and insects. It does not constrict its prey but instead subdues it through repeated strikes. If threatened, it may rapidly flee or aggressively strike in defense.
Found in open woodlands, grasslands, and sandy areas, the Eastern Coachwhip thrives in warm, dry habitats. It plays a crucial role in controlling small animal populations.
Western Mud Snake (Farancia abacura reinwardtii)
The Western Mud Snake is a strikingly beautiful, semi-aquatic species with a glossy black back and a red or pink belly patterned with black markings. This secretive snake spends much of its time buried in soft mud or leaf litter near swamps, marshes, and slow-moving water.
Specializing in hunting amphibians, it primarily preys on giant aquatic salamanders such as sirens and amphiumas. Unlike constrictors, it subdues prey by pressing it against surfaces and swallowing it alive. It is non-venomous and rarely bites, often relying on its slippery body to escape predators.
Due to its secretive nature, the Western Mud Snake is rarely encountered by humans. It depends on wetland ecosystems, making habitat destruction its biggest threat.
Rough Earth Snake (Virginia striatula)
The Rough Earth Snake is a small, unassuming species with a smooth brown or grayish body and a slightly pointed snout. Unlike many snakes, it lacks distinct markings, allowing it to blend seamlessly with soil and leaf litter in wooded areas and gardens.
It primarily feeds on earthworms, slugs, and soft-bodied insects, making it an important part of the ecosystem. This snake is completely harmless and rarely seen due to its secretive, burrowing lifestyle. When handled, it may wriggle vigorously but does not bite.
Common in forests, grasslands, and suburban areas, the Rough Earth Snake often thrives in residential gardens.
Western Earth Snake (Virginia valeriae elegans)
The Western Earth Snake is a small, secretive species with a slender body and smooth scales. It ranges in color from gray to brown, sometimes with faint darker speckles, helping it blend into leaf litter and loose soil. Its head is slightly pointed, which aids in burrowing.
This non-venomous snake primarily feeds on soft-bodied invertebrates, such as earthworms and slugs. It spends most of its time hidden under logs, rocks, or buried in loose soil. When disturbed, it rarely bites and instead relies on its secretive nature to avoid predators.
Found in forests, grasslands, and suburban areas, the Western Earth Snake benefits from habitats with plenty of ground cover.
Flat-Headed Snake (Tantilla gracilis)
The Flat-Headed Snake is one of the smallest snake species in the region, rarely exceeding 8 inches in length. Its slender, reddish-brown to grayish body is complemented by a slightly darker head and a pinkish belly. True to its name, it has a flattened head, which helps it burrow efficiently.
This snake primarily preys on small invertebrates, including centipedes and soft-bodied insects. It is rarely seen due to its underground lifestyle, spending most of its time beneath rocks, logs, and loose soil. It is completely harmless to humans and rarely bites when handled.
The Flat-Headed Snake thrives in dry, rocky woodlands and prairies.
Great Plains Ground Snake (Sonora episcopa)
The Great Plains Ground Snake is a small, variable-colored species that can range from tan to reddish-brown, often with dark blotches or stripes. Some individuals have a solid coloration, making identification tricky. It has smooth scales and a slender build, helping it navigate its sandy, rocky habitat.
This nocturnal hunter feeds on small insects, spiders, and centipedes. Unlike constrictors, it simply overpowers its tiny prey and swallows it whole. It is highly secretive, often staying hidden under rocks or buried in loose soil during the day.
Found in prairies, rocky outcrops, and sandy regions, the Great Plains Ground Snake benefits from well-drained soils.
Eastern Glossy Snake (Arizona elegans elegans)
The Eastern Glossy Snake is a medium-sized species with a smooth, shiny appearance that gives it its name. It has a tan or light brown body covered in dark brown blotches, closely resembling a juvenile rattlesnake. However, it lacks venom and is completely harmless.
This burrowing snake is primarily nocturnal, hunting lizards, small rodents, and insects at night. It is a powerful constrictor, using its muscular body to subdue prey before swallowing it whole. When threatened, it may hiss or attempt to flee rather than bite.
Preferring dry, open habitats such as prairies and sandy woodlands, the Eastern Glossy Snake relies on undisturbed soil for burrowing.
Western Massasauga (Sistrurus tergeminus)
The Western Massasauga is a small to medium-sized venomous pit viper with a gray or light brown body covered in dark brown blotches. It has a distinctive rattle at the end of its tail and a broad, triangular head, distinguishing it from non-venomous species.
This ambush predator primarily hunts rodents, lizards, and amphibians, relying on its venom to subdue prey. It is highly reclusive and avoids human interaction, often relying on its camouflage to remain undetected. When threatened, it may rattle as a warning before resorting to a defensive strike.
Found in grasslands, wetlands, and prairies, the Western Massasauga faces habitat loss due to agricultural expansion.
Western Smooth Earth Snake (Virginia valeriae)
The Western Smooth Earth Snake is a small, secretive species with a brown to grayish body and smooth, shiny scales. Its unassuming appearance helps it blend into forest floors and loose soil, making it difficult to spot.
Feeding mainly on earthworms and soft-bodied insects, this snake spends most of its life hidden under leaf litter, rocks, and logs. It is completely harmless to humans and rarely attempts to bite when handled, preferring to wriggle away instead.
This species thrives in forests, grasslands, and even suburban areas with undisturbed ground cover.
Western Black-Necked Garter Snake (Thamnophis cyrtopsis ocellatus)
The Western Black-Necked Garter Snake is a medium-sized, slender species known for the distinctive black blotches on the sides of its neck. Its body is typically olive-green or brown, with three pale yellow or cream-colored stripes running down its length. This pattern provides excellent camouflage in riparian habitats.
Highly active during the day, this snake primarily feeds on amphibians, fish, and small invertebrates. It is a strong swimmer and often hunts in shallow water, using quick reflexes to capture prey. When threatened, it may flatten its body and release a foul-smelling musk as a defense mechanism.
This species is commonly found near streams, rivers, and wetlands in arid and semi-arid regions.
Western Plains Black-Headed Snake (Tantilla nigriceps)
The Western Plains Black-Headed Snake is a tiny, secretive species with a slender body and smooth scales. Its most distinctive feature is its glossy black head, which contrasts sharply with its pinkish-brown or tan body. Its belly is usually pale pink, adding to its subtle but unique coloration.
This snake primarily feeds on small invertebrates, including centipedes, spiders, and insect larvae. It is rarely seen due to its burrowing habits, spending most of its time under rocks, logs, or loose soil. It is completely harmless and does not bite when handled.
Found in dry prairies, rocky hillsides, and sandy woodlands, this species thrives in areas with loose, well-drained soil.
Southern Black Racer (Coluber constrictor priapus)
The Southern Black Racer is a sleek, fast-moving snake with a glossy black body and a white or gray chin. Unlike rat snakes, its slender frame and smooth scales give it a more refined appearance. Juveniles look entirely different, with a grayish body covered in dark blotches.
This snake is an active daytime hunter, preying on small mammals, birds, lizards, and insects. Instead of constricting its prey, it relies on speed and agility to capture and quickly subdue it. When threatened, it may vibrate its tail in dry leaves to mimic a rattlesnake.
Thriving in forests, fields, and suburban areas, the Southern Black Racer plays a crucial role in controlling rodent populations.
Eastern Black Rat Snake (Pantherophis alleghaniensis)
The Eastern Black Rat Snake is one of the largest non-venomous snakes in its range, often exceeding six feet in length. Its glossy black body and white or grayish belly make it easy to identify, though juveniles have a blotched pattern that fades with age.
A powerful constrictor, this snake primarily preys on rodents, birds, and eggs. It is an excellent climber and is often found in trees, barns, or attics searching for food. When threatened, it may vibrate its tail and emit a musky odor, but it is non-aggressive and rarely bites.
This species thrives in forests, farmlands, and suburban areas, often benefiting humans by controlling rodent populations.
Central American Water Snake (Nerodia clarkii compressicauda)
The Central American Water Snake is a semi-aquatic species with a stout body and keeled scales. Its coloration varies, with individuals displaying shades of brown, gray, or olive, often with dark blotches or bands. Its belly is typically lighter, blending well with muddy or sandy environments.
An expert swimmer, this snake primarily hunts fish, amphibians, and aquatic invertebrates. Unlike constrictors, it captures prey using quick strikes and swallows it whole. It is non-venomous but may flatten its body and release a foul-smelling musk if threatened.
Preferring coastal wetlands, marshes, and slow-moving rivers, this species relies on healthy aquatic ecosystems. Habitat degradation and water pollution pose significant threats, making wetland conservation crucial for its long-term survival.
Types of Venomous snakes in Missourin
Eastern Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix)
The Eastern Copperhead is a medium-sized venomous snake with a distinctive copper-colored head and hourglass-shaped bands across its body. Its reddish-brown, tan, or grayish scales blend seamlessly with fallen leaves, making it well-camouflaged in forested environments. Juveniles have a bright yellow-tipped tail used to lure prey.
This ambush predator primarily feeds on small mammals, birds, frogs, and insects. It relies on its excellent camouflage to remain undetected, striking only when necessary to subdue prey. While its venom is potent, copperheads are not aggressive and usually freeze or attempt to escape when encountered.
Commonly found in forests, rocky hillsides, and river valleys, the Eastern Copperhead plays a vital role in controlling rodent populations.
Northern Cottonmouth (Agkistrodon piscivorus)
The Northern Cottonmouth, also called the “water moccasin,” is a large, semi-aquatic pit viper with a dark, thick body and a distinctive white mouth lining, which it displays in a defensive posture. Its coloration ranges from dark brown to black, often with faint bands. Younger individuals have brighter patterns and a yellow-tipped tail.
This snake preys on fish, amphibians, small mammals, and even other snakes. Unlike many pit vipers, it actively hunts in water and on land, using its heat-sensitive pits to detect warm-blooded prey. Though often mischaracterized as aggressive, it typically relies on its warning display rather than biting.
Preferring swamps, marshes, and slow-moving streams, the Northern Cottonmouth is an important predator in wetland ecosystems.
Timber Rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus)
The Timber Rattlesnake is a large, heavy-bodied pit viper with a pattern of dark, jagged bands on a yellowish, gray, or brown background. Some individuals have a darker, nearly black appearance. Its distinctive rattle, composed of interlocking keratin segments, serves as a warning signal to potential threats.
This ambush predator primarily hunts rodents, birds, and other small animals, using its potent venom to subdue prey. It is generally docile, preferring to remain motionless or retreat when approached rather than strike. Its rattle is an effective deterrent, but if ignored, it will defend itself.
Timber Rattlesnakes inhabit deciduous forests, rocky outcrops, and bluffs. Due to habitat fragmentation and human persecution, their populations have declined in many areas.
Western Pygmy Rattlesnake (Sistrurus miliarius streckeri)
The Western Pygmy Rattlesnake is a small but strikingly patterned pit viper with a grayish body covered in dark blotches and a rusty-orange stripe running down its back. Its tiny rattle produces a faint buzzing sound, often difficult to hear.
Despite its size, this snake is an effective predator, feeding on small mammals, lizards, and amphibians. It relies on its camouflage to ambush prey and uses its venom to subdue meals quickly. While not aggressive, it may bite if provoked, though its venom is less potent than that of larger rattlesnakes.
Found in pine forests, rocky hillsides, and wetlands, the Western Pygmy Rattlesnake benefits from habitats with plenty of ground cover.
Eastern Massasauga (Sistrurus catenatus)
The Eastern Massasauga is a small to medium-sized rattlesnake with a gray or light brown body marked by dark, rounded blotches. Its head is broad and triangular, with vertical pupils and heat-sensitive pits for detecting prey. Its rattle is relatively small but produces a distinct buzzing sound when agitated.
This species primarily preys on small mammals, birds, and amphibians. It is a secretive snake, often hiding under logs, in tall grass, or within wetlands. When threatened, it usually remains still, relying on its camouflage rather than defensive aggression.
Inhabiting prairies, marshes, and grasslands, the Eastern Massasauga is considered a species of conservation concern due to habitat loss and fragmentation.
