Florida is home to a diverse range of snake species, making it one of the most fascinating states for reptile enthusiasts. From harmless garden snakes to powerful constrictors, snakes in Florida thrive in various habitats, including swamps, forests, and even residential areas. With its warm climate and abundant water sources, Florida provides the perfect environment for both native and non-native snakes to flourish.
Among the snakes in Florida, some are completely harmless, while others possess venomous bites that require caution. Identifying these snakes is essential for anyone who enjoys outdoor activities in the state. Understanding their unique patterns, behaviors, and habitats can help residents and visitors safely coexist with these reptiles.
This guide covers 60 different snakes in Florida, complete with pictures and key identification features. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or just curious about the snakes you may encounter, this list will help you recognize and appreciate the incredible variety of Florida’s snake population.
Different Types of Snakes in Florida
Florida Cottonmouth
The Florida Cottonmouth (Agkistrodon conanti) is one of the most venomous snakes in Florida, frequently found in wetlands, lakes, and rivers. It has a thick, muscular body, dark coloration, and a distinctive white mouth interior, which it displays as a warning when threatened. Younger individuals have more pronounced patterns with a yellow-tipped tail used to lure prey.
As an ambush predator, the Cottonmouth feeds on fish, frogs, and small mammals. Unlike many water snakes, it may stand its ground when confronted rather than fleeing. Its venom can cause severe tissue damage, and immediate medical attention is necessary if bitten.
Corn Snake
The Corn Snake (Pantherophis guttatus) is a nonvenomous constrictor native to the southeastern United States, often found in forests, grasslands, and abandoned buildings. Recognizable by its bright orange, red, and brown patterns, this species is sometimes mistaken for the venomous Copperhead, though it poses no threat to humans.
Corn Snakes are skilled climbers and burrowers, frequently hunting rodents in barns and fields. They use constriction to subdue prey, which includes mice, lizards, and small birds. Due to their gentle temperament and striking coloration, they are among the most popular pet snakes in the world.
Eastern Ratsnake
The Eastern Ratsnake (Pantherophis alleghaniensis), also known as the Yellow Ratsnake in Florida, is a large, nonvenomous species found in forests, farmlands, and suburban areas. Its coloration varies based on region, ranging from bright yellow with dark stripes to solid black in northern populations.
These snakes are excellent climbers and often enter attics or barns in search of rodents. They are essential for controlling pest populations but may startle homeowners when found indoors. Although they may hiss and mimic rattlesnakes by vibrating their tails, they are harmless and typically avoid confrontation.
Dusky Pygmy Rattlesnake
The Dusky Pygmy Rattlesnake (Sistrurus miliarius barbouri) is a small but venomous pit viper found in forests, marshes, and grasslands throughout Florida. It has a compact, gray body with dark blotches and a distinctive orange-red stripe running along its back.
Though its venom is not typically fatal to humans, bites can be painful and require medical attention. Unlike larger rattlesnakes, its rattle is small and produces a faint buzzing sound that is often difficult to hear. The Dusky Pygmy Rattlesnake primarily preys on frogs, lizards, and insects, using its ambush hunting strategy to capture unsuspecting prey.
Ring-necked Snake
The Ring-necked Snake (Diadophis punctatus) is a small, nonvenomous snake found throughout Florida, thriving in forests, grasslands, and suburban areas. It is easily recognized by its dark, slender body, bright yellow, red, or orange underbelly, and a distinctive ring around its neck, though this marking may sometimes be absent. Adults typically grow to only 10-15 inches in length, making them one of the smaller snake species in the region.
These snakes are nocturnal hunters, emerging at night to prey on small invertebrates, amphibians, and lizards. They are secretive and often hide under rocks, logs, or leaf litter during the day. Though harmless to humans, they produce a mild toxin in their saliva to help subdue their prey. Females lay small clutches of eggs in moist environments, such as rotting logs or damp soil, ensuring optimal conditions for hatching.
Ribbon Snake
The Ribbon Snake (Thamnophis saurita) is a slender, fast-moving, nonvenomous snake commonly found near freshwater sources like streams, marshes, and ponds. It has a distinctive appearance with a dark green or brown body and three bright yellow longitudinal stripes running along its length. Its underbelly is typically pale yellow, further distinguishing it from other species.
Growing between 14 and 28 inches, Ribbon Snakes are excellent swimmers and agile hunters, primarily preying on fish, frogs, and other small amphibians. Juveniles resemble adults but often appear darker, with less pronounced stripes. These snakes are diurnal and highly alert, quickly fleeing into water or vegetation when threatened. Unlike many other snakes, they give birth to live young rather than laying eggs, with litters typically consisting of 4-27 offspring.
Eastern Diamond-backed Rattlesnake
The Eastern Diamond-backed Rattlesnake (Crotalus adamanteus) is the largest and most venomous snake in Florida, often exceeding 5 feet in length. It has a heavy body covered in distinctive dark diamond-shaped markings outlined in light scales, giving it its name. This rattlesnake prefers pine flatwoods, dry sandy habitats, and scrublands, where it remains well-camouflaged among fallen leaves and vegetation.
Despite its potent venom, the Eastern Diamond-backed Rattlesnake is not aggressive and usually avoids human encounters. It will, however, stand its ground if threatened, coiling and rattling its tail as a warning before striking. Females give birth to live young in late summer, with litters reaching up to 29 offspring. Due to habitat destruction and hunting, populations of this iconic species are declining in some areas.
North American Racer
The North American Racer (Coluber constrictor) is a sleek, nonvenomous snake commonly found in open fields, forests, and suburban areas. It is known for its speed and agility, allowing it to quickly evade predators. Adult racers are typically solid black with a white chin, while juveniles have a mottled, patterned appearance that fades with age.
These snakes are diurnal hunters, relying on their sharp eyesight to detect prey such as small mammals, birds, and insects. Though they may act defensively by vibrating their tails or striking when cornered, they pose no real threat to humans and prefer to flee rather than fight.
Banded Watersnake
The Banded Watersnake (Nerodia fasciata) is a nonvenomous aquatic species commonly found in swamps, rivers, and marshes across the southeastern United States. It has a stout body with dark, irregular bands across a brown, reddish, or gray background, helping it camouflage in its watery habitat.
Despite often being mistaken for the venomous Cottonmouth, the Banded Watersnake is harmless. However, when threatened, it flattens its head and emits a foul-smelling musk as a defense mechanism. It primarily preys on fish, amphibians, and small invertebrates, hunting both during the day and at night.
Brown Watersnake
The Brown Watersnake (Nerodia taxispilota) is a large, nonvenomous, semi-aquatic snake commonly found in rivers, swamps, and lakes throughout Florida. It has a thick body covered in brown or tan coloration with dark brown blotches, often leading to confusion with the venomous Cottonmouth. However, Brown Watersnakes are not dangerous and rely on their strong bite rather than venom for defense.
These snakes are highly aquatic and spend most of their time near water, often basking on overhanging branches before diving into the water when disturbed. They primarily feed on fish, ambushing prey from submerged positions. Brown Watersnakes are known for their aggressive temperament when handled, striking repeatedly if threatened. They give birth to live young, with females producing large litters of up to 60 babies in late summer.
Brahminy Blindsnake
The Brahminy Blindsnake (Indotyphlops braminus) is one of the smallest snake species in Florida, often mistaken for an earthworm due to its tiny size and glossy, uniform dark brown or black body. These snakes rarely grow longer than 6 inches and have small, vestigial eyes that provide minimal vision, as they spend most of their lives underground.
Brahminy Blindsnakes are harmless and beneficial, feeding on the eggs and larvae of ants and termites. They are commonly found in gardens, flower pots, and loose soil, which has earned them the nickname “Flowerpot Snake.” They are parthenogenetic, meaning all individuals are female and reproduce without mating, giving birth to genetically identical offspring. Though they are not native to Florida, they have established populations due to human activity and the transportation of soil.
Eastern Coachwhip
The Eastern Coachwhip (Masticophis flagellum flagellum) is one of the longest and fastest snakes in Florida, capable of growing up to 8 feet in length. It has a distinctive coloration, with a black head and upper body that gradually fades into a tan or light brown tail. This pattern resembles the braided leather of a whip, giving the species its name.
Eastern Coachwhips are highly active and primarily hunt by sight, often raising their heads above vegetation to scan for prey, which includes lizards, birds, and small mammals. They are extremely fast and rely on their speed to escape threats rather than fighting. Though they may bite defensively if handled, they are completely nonvenomous. Females lay clutches of up to 24 eggs in the summer, with hatchlings emerging in late summer or early fall.
Pine Woods Littersnake
The Pine Woods Littersnake (Rhadinaea flavilata) is a small, non-venomous snake commonly found in pine forests and swampy areas of Florida. This species has a brown or reddish-brown coloration, which helps it blend in with leaf litter on the forest floor.
As its name suggests, the Pine Woods Littersnake primarily inhabits pine woodlands, but it prefers areas close to water sources for optimal humidity. These snakes are secretive and spend most of their time hiding under logs, leaves, or other ground debris. They primarily feed on small invertebrates such as insects and worms.
Common Garter Snake
The Common Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis) is one of the most widespread snake species in Florida. This non-venomous snake varies in appearance but is generally recognized by its green or gray body with distinct longitudinal stripes running along its length.
These snakes are highly adaptable and can thrive in various environments, from woodlands to suburban gardens. They are known for their complex communication skills, as both males and females use pheromones to attract mates. Interestingly, some males emit female pheromones to attract other males, a tactic used to share body heat and accelerate their emergence from hibernation. Common Garter Snakes primarily feed on amphibians, small fish, and earthworms.
Rough Greensnake
The Rough Greensnake (Opheodrys aestivus) is a slender, non-venomous snake commonly found in Florida, Georgia, and surrounding states. It can grow up to 31 inches long but remains one of the thinnest snake species in the region.
With its bright green dorsal side and yellowish belly, the Rough Greensnake is easily recognizable. These snakes are excellent climbers and spend much of their time in dense vegetation, where they prey on insects, spiders, and small invertebrates. They are diurnal, meaning they are most active during the day while hunting for food. Despite their striking appearance, Rough Greensnakes are harmless and typically avoid human interaction.
Eastern Coralsnake
The Eastern Coralsnake (Micrurus fulvius) is a highly venomous species found in Florida. It has a distinctive pattern of black, red, and yellow rings, which serve as a warning to potential predators.
This species is rarely seen, as Eastern Coralsnakes spend most of their time underground or hidden beneath debris. They emerge to hunt small reptiles such as lizards and other snakes. Their venom is highly potent, and bites should be treated as medical emergencies. These snakes are most commonly found in pine woodlands and sandy soils but have also been reported in suburban areas. Unlike other aggressive venomous snakes, Eastern Coralsnakes tend to flee rather than bite unless provoked.
Scarletsnake
The Scarletsnake (Cemophora coccinea) closely resembles the Eastern Coralsnake, a mimicry adaptation that helps it avoid predators. It has a red, black, and yellow or gray body, along with a pointed snout that distinguishes it from its venomous counterpart.
Unlike the Eastern Coralsnake, the Scarletsnake is non-venomous and primarily nocturnal. These snakes are rarely seen, as they spend most of their time hidden under loose soil, leaf litter, or logs. The best chances of spotting one occur during warm summer nights, particularly from dusk until late August. Their diet consists mainly of small reptiles and eggs, which they consume by crushing them with their strong jaws.
Scarlet Kingsnake
The Scarlet Kingsnake (Lampropeltis elapsoides) is a non-venomous species often mistaken for the Eastern Coralsnake due to its red, black, and yellow coloration. However, the pattern arrangement differs, which helps in distinguishing the two.
This species is found throughout Florida but remains elusive because it prefers to hide under rocks, logs, and debris. Despite being harmless to humans, Scarlet Kingsnakes are known for their defensive behavior. When handled, they may bite repeatedly and release a foul-smelling musk as a deterrent. These snakes primarily feed on lizards, small rodents, and other snakes, including venomous species. Their breeding season is quite long, with females laying eggs between July and November.
Gray Ratsnake
The Gray Ratsnake (Pantherophis spiloides) is a highly adaptable, non-venomous species found in Florida. Thriving in various habitats, including woodlands, farmlands, and urban areas, it is an excellent climber often seen on trees hunting birds or raiding nests for eggs. Its name comes from its habit of nesting underground, frequently using rat burrows for shelter and egg-laying.
Since Gray Ratsnakes are not tolerant of cold weather, they actively seek out rodent burrows to keep warm. Their diet mainly consists of rodents, birds, and bird eggs, making them beneficial for controlling pest populations.
Mudsnake
The Mudsnake (Farancia abacura) is a semi-aquatic, non-venomous snake commonly found in Florida’s wetlands. Preferring marshes, swamps, and slow-moving water, it rarely ventures onto dry land. It has a glossy black dorsal side and a red or yellow belly, though it remains hidden in aquatic vegetation and is rarely seen.
Most active at night, Mudsnakes may occasionally be spotted crossing roads, especially after rain. They use their tail tip to prod and startle prey, mainly amphibians like salamanders, making them unique among Florida’s snake species.
Dekay’s Brownsnake
Dekay’s Brownsnake (Storeria dekayi) is a small, non-venomous snake growing between 6 and 11 inches in length. It is mostly brown with darker markings running along its back and is commonly found in swamps, cypress forests, and moist woodlands. Due to its secretive nature, it is usually discovered accidentally when people lift logs or debris.
This species primarily feeds on soft-bodied prey such as slugs and worms. It is most often seen after rainfall when its food sources become more active. Though small, it plays an important role in maintaining ecological balance.
Florida Brownsnake
The Florida Brownsnake (Storeria victa) is another small, non-venomous species native to the state. Closely resembling Dekay’s Brownsnake, it grows slightly longer, reaching up to 13 inches. It prefers swamps and other moist habitats, where it hides under leaves and vegetation when sensing danger.
Identified by a black stripe running from head to tail along its brown-colored body, the Florida Brownsnake is difficult to spot. Juveniles have a similar appearance to adults, and they reach reproductive maturity around three years of age.
Eastern Indigo Snake
The Eastern Indigo Snake (Drymarchon couperi) is one of the largest non-venomous snakes in the United States, growing over 80 inches in length. It is almost entirely black and is often compared to the Texas Indigo Snake. This diurnal species is most active during the day, making summer the best time to spot one.
Despite its large size, the Eastern Indigo Snake is harmless to humans. When threatened, it does not usually bite but instead hisses loudly as a warning. In winter, it migrates to dry, sheltered environments for protection from the cold.
Eastern Copperhead
The Eastern Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix) is a venomous snake known for its potent bite. While its venom is not typically fatal, it can cause serious medical complications requiring immediate treatment. It has a distinctive brown and gray coloration that provides excellent camouflage in forests and rocky areas.
Active both day and night, the Eastern Copperhead hunts birds, amphibians, and small mammals. It is especially common in woodland areas, with mating season occurring in late spring—one of the best times to observe this species in the wild.
Eastern Hog-nosed Snake
The Eastern Hog-nosed Snake (Heterodon platirhinos) is a non-venomous species named for its distinctive upturned snout. This unique feature helps it burrow in sandy soils, where it hunts for small animals such as salamanders and birds. Eastern Hog-nosed Snakes display a variety of color morphs, including black and yellow, black and gray, and even solid black.
Though harmless, these snakes have impressive defense mechanisms. They flatten their necks like a cobra, hiss loudly, and if the threat persists, they may play dead—flipping onto their backs and remaining motionless until danger passes. Their reproductive cycle is also notable, with females laying clutches of up to 25 eggs at a time.
Rainbow Snake
The Rainbow Snake (Farancia erytrogramma) is a stunning, non-venomous species found along Florida’s coastal regions. It is highly aquatic, spending most of its life in freshwater habitats such as swamps and slow-moving rivers. While its dorsal side is dark, its belly features a vibrant combination of red, yellow, and black, giving it a rainbow-like appearance.
These nocturnal snakes are elusive and rarely encountered on land. Unlike many other species, they are known for being docile and do not bite when handled. Females are prolific breeders, capable of laying dozens of eggs at once, making them one of the most reproductive species among Florida’s non-venomous snakes.
Red-bellied Snake
The Red-bellied Snake (Storeria occipitomaculata) is among the smallest snake species in Florida, reaching a maximum length of only 11 inches. It is easily identified by its contrasting dark dorsal side and bright red belly. Different color variations exist, but the gray and red morph is the most common.
These snakes are highly secretive, spending most of their time hidden under leaf litter or logs. They primarily feed on slugs, making them beneficial to gardens. Unlike many other snakes, Red-bellied Snakes give birth to live young instead of laying eggs. Females typically give birth at the end of summer, producing up to nine offspring at a time.
Florida Green Watersnake
The Florida Green Watersnake (Nerodia floridana) is one of the largest aquatic snakes in Florida, growing up to 55 inches in length. Its body is usually brown or brownish-black, helping it blend into swampy environments. It is commonly found in marshes and wetlands, where it primarily feeds on fish.
This species has an exceptionally high reproductive rate. Female Florida Green Watersnakes can give birth to as many as 100 live young in a single mating season. Although not currently endangered, habitat loss due to wetland drainage poses a threat to their population. Their reliance on aquatic environments makes them particularly vulnerable to environmental changes.
Glossy Swampsnake
The Glossy Swampsnake (Liodytes rigida) is a secretive, non-venomous aquatic snake found in the wetlands of southern Florida. It has a smooth, brown body with a yellowish underside and can grow up to 24 inches in length.
This species primarily feeds on crayfish, using its specialized teeth to crush hard shells. It is not aggressive and rarely bites, even when handled. Instead, it may produce a hissing sound as a defense mechanism. Due to its elusive nature and preference for aquatic habitats, sightings of the Glossy Swampsnake are rare.
Rough Earthsnake
The Rough Earthsnake (Haldea striatula) is a small, fossorial snake that spends most of its life underground. It has a slender brown, gray, or reddish-gray body with a slightly rough texture, reaching a maximum length of around 10 inches.
This species prefers hiding under leaf litter, logs, and debris in wooded areas. It feeds on soft-bodied invertebrates such as earthworms and insect larvae. Rough Earthsnakes are completely harmless to humans and rely on their secretive nature to avoid predators rather than displaying defensive behaviors.
Red-tailed Boa
The Red-tailed Boa (Boa constrictor) is a large, non-venomous constrictor snake introduced to Florida from South America. It can grow up to 10 feet in length and has a robust body with a tan, gray, or green coloration marked by dark blotches.
This snake is an ambush predator, feeding on rodents, birds, and small mammals. It kills its prey by constriction, wrapping its muscular body around the victim and suffocating it before swallowing it whole. Though not naturally aggressive, the Red-tailed Boa may bite if threatened, and its powerful grip can be difficult to escape.
Apalachicola Kingsnake
The Apalachicola Kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula meansi) is a non-venomous snake native to the Apalachicola Lowlands of Florida. It grows up to 48 inches long and has a distinctive pattern of light specks on a dark background.
These snakes primarily feed on other reptiles, including smaller snakes, lizards, and bird eggs. Like other kingsnakes, they are constrictors and use their strong coils to subdue prey. Apalachicola Kingsnakes are generally docile and prefer to flee rather than confront threats, but they may release a musky odor if handled.
Plain-bellied Watersnake
The Plain-bellied Watersnake (Nerodia erythrogaster) is a semi-aquatic, non-venomous snake found in Florida. It has a gray-green body with a pale yellow underbelly, though it can display various color morphs.
Unlike most watersnakes, this species spends a significant amount of time on land. It primarily hunts for fish and crayfish in summer but moves inland during winter to hibernate. Its adaptability makes it vulnerable to both aquatic and terrestrial predators, particularly in its juvenile stage.
Short-tailed Kingsnake
The Short-tailed Kingsnake (Lampropeltis extenuata) is a small, secretive snake found in Florida’s pine and oak woodlands. It has a patterned brown body and reaches a maximum length of 20 inches.
This species prefers dry or mildly moist soil, where it hunts primarily for reptile eggs and small prey. Short-tailed Kingsnakes are known for their defensive behavior of “false striking,” where they mimic a bite with a closed mouth instead of actually biting.
Southeastern Crown Snake
The Southeastern Crown Snake (Tantilla coronata) is a small, secretive species commonly found in Florida’s coastal regions. It has a slender tan to brown body with a distinct black head or a tan-brown head marked with black. Growing up to 10 inches, this non-venomous snake spends most of its life underground.
It primarily feeds on insects and spiders and poses no threat to humans. The Southeastern Crown Snake has a notably low reproductive rate, often laying only a single egg after mating. Its elusive nature and burrowing behavior make it a rare sight in the wild.
Southern Hog-nosed Snake
The Southern Hog-nosed Snake (Heterodon simus) is a non-venomous species known for its distinctive upturned snout. It inhabits Florida’s sandy areas and is often seen in the morning when it is most active. This snake can grow up to 24 inches long and has a stout body with variable coloration.
It specializes in feeding on toads and is immune to their toxins. With its rear fangs, the Southern Hog-nosed Snake can puncture inflated toads, making them easier to swallow. Despite their defensive posturing, including playing dead when threatened, these snakes are harmless to humans.
Queensnake
The Queensnake (Regina septemvittata) is a semi-aquatic, non-venomous snake commonly found in Florida’s rivers and streams. It has a slender, gray-green body with a yellow underbelly and is closely associated with crayfish-rich habitats.
Unlike other crayfish-eating snakes, the Queensnake only preys on soft-shell crayfish that have recently molted. It is often found near the water’s edge, where it hunts in groups with other similar snake species. Due to its specialized diet, its population is closely linked to the health of freshwater ecosystems.
Rim Rock Crowned Snake
The Rim Rock Crowned Snake (Tantilla oolitica) is a rare and endangered species native to southern Florida, including the Florida Keys. It has a slender, reddish-brown body and a black head, growing to a maximum length of 9 inches.
This secretive snake primarily feeds on centipedes, worms, and spiders. It inhabits hardwood hammocks and pine rocklands, but habitat loss has drastically reduced its numbers. With its natural environment disappearing, the Rim Rock Crowned Snake is now one of Florida’s most at-risk reptile species.
Eastern Kingsnake
The Eastern Kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula) is a powerful constrictor and one of Florida’s most resilient snake species. It has a black body patterned with yellow speckles, though some individuals are entirely black. This species thrives in diverse habitats, from forests to swamps, and is particularly active during the summer months.
Eastern Kingsnakes are formidable predators, capable of overpowering and consuming a wide variety of prey. They are immune to the venom of many other snakes, allowing them to hunt and eat dangerous species such as Copperheads. Their immunity to venom makes them valuable in controlling populations of venomous snakes in their ecosystem.
Saltmarsh Snake
The Saltmarsh Snake (Nerodia clarkii) is a small, non-venomous species native to Florida’s coastal regions. It grows between 15 and 30 inches in length and is well-adapted to life in saltwater environments. Unlike most watersnakes, it does not rely on freshwater sources but instead drinks rainwater that collects in coastal habitats.
These snakes primarily feed on marine prey, such as crabs and shrimp, making them unique among Florida’s snake species. However, industrial development and habitat destruction threaten their populations. Coastal construction projects have significantly reduced their natural habitats, making conservation efforts increasingly important for their survival.
Timber Rattlesnake
The Timber Rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus) is a venomous species recognized by the reddish stripe running along its brown-blotched dorsal. While it prefers higher elevations and is not widespread in Florida, small populations exist in the state. This species is known for its potent venom and its distinctive rattle, which it uses as a warning signal when threatened.
Timber Rattlesnakes grow up to 60 inches long and take several years to mature, with females requiring up to five years before becoming sexually active. As juveniles, they primarily feed on small rodents, but as they grow, they shift to larger prey such as squirrels and rabbits.
Black Swampsnake
The Black Swampsnake (Liodytes pygaea) is a small, non-venomous snake that reaches about 8 inches in length. It is easily identified by its glossy black dorsal and vibrant red underbelly. This species is commonly found in cypress swamps and other wetland areas in Florida.
These snakes are secretive and primarily nocturnal, making them difficult to spot during the day. Unlike many other snakes, Black Swampsnakes rarely bite and prefer to flee when encountering humans. Their diet consists mostly of earthworms, but they also feed on small fish and salamanders.
Burmese Python
The Burmese Python (Python bivittatus) is an invasive species in Florida, growing to an enormous length of up to 23 feet. Originally introduced through the pet trade, these snakes have established a stronghold in the Everglades, where they have decimated populations of native wildlife.
Due to their size and strength, Burmese Pythons have very few natural predators in Florida. They prey on a variety of animals, including rabbits, birds, and even small alligators. Wildlife officials have implemented control measures to reduce their numbers, but their impact on the ecosystem remains significant.
Florida Kingsnake
The Florida Kingsnake (Lampropeltis floridana) is a non-venomous constrictor that thrives in forests and pine woodlands. It has a brown body with tan crossbands and is known for its ability to subdue prey by coiling around it. While these snakes are not aggressive, they may emit a foul odor or poke at perceived threats to deter them.
Despite their defensive behaviors, Florida Kingsnakes are harmless to humans. Their diet consists mainly of birds, eggs, and small mammals. As opportunistic hunters, they sometimes consume other snake species, making them an important part of Florida’s ecological balance.
African Rock Python
The African Rock Python (Python sebae) is another invasive species that has been reported in the Florida Everglades. Slightly smaller than the Burmese Python, it can still reach lengths of up to 20 feet. Its incredible strength allows it to take down large prey, including goats and deer.
These pythons are believed to have escaped from private collections and have contributed to the decline of rabbit populations in the Everglades. Although non-venomous, their rapid reproduction rate poses a significant threat to native wildlife. Females can lay up to 100 eggs per clutch, making population control efforts especially challenging.
Pine Snake
The Pine Snake (Pituophis melanoleucus) is a large, non-venomous species found throughout Florida. It can grow up to 66 inches in length and is characterized by a mix of black, yellow, and gray coloration. This snake is a skilled burrower, often spending much of its time underground or hidden under leaf litter.
Pine Snakes are most active from May to October and are known for their communal nesting behavior, where multiple females lay eggs in the same location. Sandy soils provide the ideal environment for their burrowing habits. Despite their large size, they are rarely seen due to their preference for underground habitats.
Florida Crowned Snake
The Florida Crowned Snake (Tantilla relicta) is a small, slender, tan-red snake that rarely grows longer than a few inches. It is commonly found across Florida, inhabiting sandy terrains and grasslands. Due to its fossorial nature, it spends most of its time underground, making it a rare sight.
This non-venomous species is nocturnal and primarily feeds on beetles and beetle larvae. When threatened, Florida Crowned Snakes release a foul smell as a defense mechanism rather than biting. Despite their secretive nature, they play an essential role in controlling insect populations.
Smooth Earthsnake
The Smooth Earthsnake (Virginia valeriae) is a small, brown or gray-colored species that grows between 7 to 10 inches in length. These snakes are fossorial, spending most of their time underground, under leaf litter, or beneath logs.
This non-venomous species is commonly found in coastal regions of Florida. Females give birth to live young, with up to 14 newborns being delivered at the end of summer. Smooth Earthsnakes primarily feed on earthworms and soft-bodied insects, making them valuable contributors to soil health.
Midland Watersnake
The Midland Watersnake (Nerodia sipedon pleuralis) is an aquatic, non-venomous snake identified by its distinctive crossbands and blotches. It grows up to 34 inches and can be light brown, dark brown, or even green in coloration.
These strong swimmers are commonly found in freshwater habitats, feeding on fish and invertebrates. They rely on their powerful jaws to capture slippery prey. While non-aggressive, Midland Watersnakes will attempt to swim away when encountering humans. Females give birth to live young, with a single female producing up to 30 offspring in the summer.
Striped Swampsnake
The Striped Swampsnake (Liodytes alleni), also known as the Striped Crayfish Snake, is a non-venomous species native to Florida’s wetlands, including swamps and canals. It has a brown or brown-yellow body and reaches a maximum length of 30 inches.
These snakes are secretive and nocturnal, making them difficult to spot. When threatened, they may swim away, play dead, or swing their heads to appear larger. Striped Swampsnakes primarily feed on crayfish, contributing to the balance of wetland ecosystems.
Mole Kingsnake
The Mole Kingsnake (Lampropeltis rhombomaculata) is one of the largest fossorial snake species in Florida, growing between 30 and 40 inches in length. It has a light brown, red, and dark brown blotched pattern, which helps it blend into its underground habitat.
These snakes spend most of their lives hidden beneath logs and rocks. They are nocturnal and feed primarily on lizards and birds, although they are unable to climb. Despite their reclusive nature, Mole Kingsnakes are important predators that help regulate small animal populations.
Mississippi Green Watersnake
The Mississippi Green Watersnake (Nerodia cyclopion) is a non-venomous species that thrives in Florida’s slow-moving waters, such as swamps and canals. It has a robust body and a greenish-brown coloration that provides effective camouflage in aquatic environments.
These snakes avoid human interaction and will quickly swim away when disturbed. However, if cornered, they may bite in self-defense. Even young snakes of this species exhibit defensive behaviors. Unlike constrictors, Mississippi Green Watersnakes rely on their powerful jaws to capture and subdue their prey, which consists mainly of freshwater fish and amphibians.
