The state of Florida is home to a diverse range of snakes, with over 40 species found throughout the region. While some species are venomous, many are harmless to humans. In this article, we will explore 12 species of snakes found in Florida, focusing on their identification, habitats, and behaviors. It's essential to understand that snakes play a crucial role in the ecosystem, and by learning about them, we can coexist safely.
Introduction to Florida’s Snake Species
Florida’s snake population includes species from various families, including the Colubridae (non-venomous snakes), Viperidae (pit vipers), and Elapidae (coral snakes). Understanding the characteristics of each species can help with identification and safe interaction. The following 12 species are commonly found in Florida, and we will delve into their unique features and habits.
Species 1: Eastern Coral Snake
The Eastern Coral Snake (Micrurus fulvius) is a venomous species found in central and southern Florida. It is recognized by its distinctive pattern of red, yellow, and black bands that run the length of its body. The coral snake is a member of the Elapidae family and is known for its potent venom. However, it is generally not aggressive and will avoid confrontations with humans.
Species 2: Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake
The Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake (Crotalus adamanteus) is the largest venomous snake in North America and is found throughout Florida. It has a distinctive diamond-shaped pattern on its back and a loud, vibrating rattle on its tail. This species is a member of the Viperidae family and is known for its powerful venom. Despite its fearsome reputation, the Eastern Diamondback is generally not aggressive and will warn potential threats with its rattle before striking.
Species 3: Water Moccasin (Cottonmouth)
The Water Moccasin (Agkistrodon piscivorus) is a venomous species found in freshwater environments throughout Florida. It is recognized by its dark, mottled coloration and distinctive white coloration on the inside of its mouth. The Water Moccasin is a member of the Viperidae family and is known for its aggressive behavior when threatened. However, it is generally not as venomous as other species, such as the Eastern Coral Snake.
Species 4: Redbelly Snake
The Redbelly Snake (Storeria occipitomaculata) is a non-venomous species found in a variety of habitats throughout Florida. It is recognized by its reddish-brown coloration on its belly and distinctive black spots on its back. The Redbelly Snake is a member of the Colubridae family and is known for its small size and harmless nature.
Species 5: Garter Snake
The Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis) is a non-venomous species found in a variety of habitats throughout Florida. It is recognized by its distinctive stripes that run the length of its body and its small size. The Garter Snake is a member of the Colubridae family and is known for its harmless nature and ability to thrive in a variety of environments.
Species 6: Indigo Snake
The Indigo Snake (Drymarchon couperi) is a non-venomous species found in central and southern Florida. It is recognized by its glossy, black coloration and distinctive pattern of lighter-colored scales on its back. The Indigo Snake is a member of the Colubridae family and is known for its large size and powerful build.
Species 7: Southern Copperhead
The Southern Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix) is a venomous species found in central and southern Florida. It is recognized by its copper-colored head and distinctive hourglass-shaped markings on its back. The Southern Copperhead is a member of the Viperidae family and is known for its venom, which is generally not life-threatening to humans.
Species 8: Florida Kingsnake
The Florida Kingsnake (Lampropeltis getulus floridana) is a non-venomous species found throughout Florida. It is recognized by its distinctive pattern of bands that run the length of its body and its ability to eat other snakes, including venomous species. The Florida Kingsnake is a member of the Colubridae family and is known for its harmless nature and beneficial role in the ecosystem.
Species 9: Peninsula Ribbon Snake
The Peninsula Ribbon Snake (Thamnophis sauritus sackenii) is a non-venomous species found in central and southern Florida. It is recognized by its slender build and distinctive stripes that run the length of its body. The Peninsula Ribbon Snake is a member of the Colubridae family and is known for its small size and harmless nature.
Species 10: Green Water Snake
The Green Water Snake (Nerodia cyclopion) is a non-venomous species found in freshwater environments throughout Florida. It is recognized by its greenish-yellow coloration and distinctive pattern of darker-colored bands on its back. The Green Water Snake is a member of the Colubridae family and is known for its aquatic habits and harmless nature.
Species 11: Brown Water Snake
The Brown Water Snake (Nerodia taxispilota) is a non-venomous species found in freshwater environments throughout Florida. It is recognized by its brown coloration and distinctive pattern of darker-colored bands on its back. The Brown Water Snake is a member of the Colubridae family and is known for its aquatic habits and harmless nature.
Species 12: Burmese Python
The Burmese Python (Python bivittatus) is an invasive, non-venomous species found in southern Florida. It is recognized by its distinctive pattern of brown and tan markings on its back and its massive size, which can exceed 20 feet in length. The Burmese Python is a member of the Pythonidae family and is known for its ability to thrive in a variety of environments and its impact on native species.
| Snake Species | Venomous/Non-Venomous | Habitat |
|---|---|---|
| Eastern Coral Snake | Venomous | Central and southern Florida |
| Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake | Venomous | Throughout Florida |
| Water Moccasin (Cottonmouth) | Venomous | Freshwater environments throughout Florida |
| Redbelly Snake | Non-Venomous | Variety of habitats throughout Florida |
| Garter Snake | Non-Venomous | Variety of habitats throughout Florida |
| Indigo Snake | Non-Venomous | Central and southern Florida |
| Southern Copperhead | Venomous | Central and southern Florida |
| Florida Kingsnake | Non-Venomous | Throughout Florida |
| Peninsula Ribbon Snake | Non-Venomous | Central and southern Florida |
| Green Water Snake | Non-Venomous | Freshwater environments throughout Florida |
| Brown Water Snake | Non-Venomous | Freshwater environments throughout Florida |
| Burmese Python | Non-Venomous (Invasive) | Southern Florida |
In conclusion, the state of Florida is home to a diverse range of snake species, each
