Have you ever wondered what slithers beneath the leaves in Arkansas? The Natural State is home to a surprising variety of snakes, from harmless garden friends to venomous vipers.
Arkansas boasts 39 different snake species, including 6 venomous types. You might encounter a colorful kingsnake or a quick eastern racer in your backyard. Or perhaps you’ll spot a garter snake sunning itself by a pond.
Knowing how to tell these snakes apart can be both fascinating and useful. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or just curious about local wildlife, learning about Arkansas snakes can enrich your outdoor experiences.
From the forests to the swamps, each snake plays a unique role in Arkansas ecosystems. You’ll discover how to identify common species, understand their habits, and even learn what to do if you cross paths with a venomous snake.
Get ready to explore the scaly side of Arkansas wildlife!
Eastern Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix)
The Eastern copperhead is a venomous snake you might encounter in Arkansas. You can recognize it by its light brown or gray body with dark brown hourglass-shaped markings.
Eastern copperheads prefer woodlands and areas close to forests. You’ll often find them hiding under logs or rocks.
These snakes are pit vipers, meaning they have heat-sensing pits between their eyes and nostrils. This helps them detect prey, even in the dark.
Copperheads are ambush predators. They wait patiently for small animals to pass by, and then strike quickly.
If you come across a copperhead, it’s best to leave it alone. While their venom is rarely fatal to humans, a bite can be very painful and require medical attention.
Remember, copperheads play an important role in controlling rodent populations. By eating mice and rats, they help maintain a healthy ecosystem in Arkansas.
Key Facts:
- Scientific name: Agkistrodon contortrix
- Venom: Hemotoxic (affects blood cells)
- Average length: 2-3 feet
- Diet: Small mammals, birds, lizards, and frogs
Northern Cottonmouth (Agkistrodon piscivorus leucostoma)
The Northern Cottonmouth is a venomous snake found in Arkansas. You can identify it by its heavy body and broad, triangular head. Its color ranges from olive to brown or black, with dark crossbands.
This snake is semi-aquatic, often found near water sources. You might spot it in swamps, streams, or marshes. It’s known for its defensive display, where it opens its white-lined mouth, giving it the name “cottonmouth”.
Northern Cottonmouths are excellent swimmers. They can hunt both on land and in water. Their diet is varied, including:
- Fish
- Frogs
- Small mammals
- Birds
- Other snakes
You should be cautious if you encounter a Northern Cottonmouth. While not typically aggressive, they will defend themselves if threatened. Their venom is potent and requires immediate medical attention if bitten.
In Arkansas, you can find Northern Cottonmouths in many counties. They play an important role in controlling rodent populations and maintaining ecological balance.
Remember, if you see a Northern Cottonmouth, it’s best to give it space and admire from a distance. These snakes are an integral part of Arkansas’s diverse wildlife.
Timber Rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus)
The timber rattlesnake is a venomous snake you might encounter in Arkansas. It’s known by its scientific name Crotalus horridus. This snake has a distinctive rattle at the end of its tail.
You can find timber rattlesnakes in various parts of Arkansas. They like to live in rocky areas and wooded hillsides. These snakes are active from spring to fall.
Timber rattlesnakes have some unique features:
- Length: Usually 3-5 feet long
- Color: Varies from yellow to dark brown or black
- Pattern: Dark bands or chevrons across the body
- Head: Large and triangular
When winter comes, timber rattlesnakes look for a place to hibernate. In Arkansas, you might find 1-20 adult snakes sharing a den. They often pick west or south-facing rocky areas for their winter homes.
If you’re out hiking, be careful where you step. Timber rattlesnakes will usually try to avoid you. They might shake their rattle as a warning if you get too close. It’s best to give them space and leave them alone.
Remember, timber rattlesnakes play a role in nature. They help control rodent populations. While they can be dangerous, they’re an important part of Arkansas’s wildlife.
Western Diamondback Rattlesnake (Crotalus atrox)
The Western Diamondback Rattlesnake is a venomous snake you might encounter in Arkansas. This large pit viper is known for its diamond-shaped markings and distinctive rattle.
You can identify this snake by its yellowish gray, pale blue, or pinkish body with dark diamond patterns. The diamonds have pale white borders, creating a striking appearance.
This rattlesnake is aggressive and highly dangerous. Its venom is potent, making it responsible for many snakebites in the United States.
In Arkansas, you’ll find Western Diamondbacks in various habitats:
- Brushy flatlands
- Rocky slopes
- High river banks
- Edges of towns and cities
During winter, these snakes hibernate in caves or burrows, sometimes in groups.
The Western Diamondback’s diet includes:
- Small mammals
- Birds
- Lizards
Be cautious if you hear a rattling sound while outdoors. This is the snake’s warning signal. If you encounter one, keep your distance and allow it to move away.
Pygmy Rattlesnake (Sistrurus miliarius streckeri)
The Western Pygmy Rattlesnake is a small but powerful snake found in Arkansas. You might spot one in wooded areas or near water sources.
These snakes typically grow to 16-24 inches long. They have a stocky build and a distinctive rattle at the end of their tail.
The Western Pygmy Rattlesnake has a unique appearance:
- Gray or tan body color
- Red or orange stripe down the back
- Dark crossbands on the body
- Spear-tip pattern on the head
You can distinguish it from baby Timber Rattlesnakes by its patterned head. Timber Rattlesnakes have plainer head markings.
This snake is active at night. During the day, you might find it basking in the sun to warm up.
While venomous, the Western Pygmy Rattlesnake is generally not aggressive. It will try to avoid you if given the chance. If you encounter one, back away slowly and give it space.
Remember, these snakes play an important role in controlling rodent populations. Admire them from a safe distance if you’re lucky enough to spot one in the wild.
Eastern Hognose Snake (Heterodon platirhinos)
The Eastern hognose snake is a unique reptile you might encounter in Arkansas. It gets its name from its upturned snout, which looks like a pig’s nose.
These snakes have a wide range of colors and patterns. You might see them in shades of brown, gray, or even black. Some have bold patterns, while others are plain.
Eastern hognose snakes are known for their theatrical behavior. When threatened, they may puff up their necks and hiss loudly. If this doesn’t work, they might play dead by rolling onto their backs.
You’ll find these snakes in various habitats across Arkansas. They prefer areas with loose soil where they can burrow and hunt for their favorite food: toads.
While the Eastern hognose is mildly venomous, it’s harmless to humans. Their venom is adapted for amphibian prey. However, some people may have an allergic reaction if bitten.
These snakes play an important role in their ecosystem. They help control toad populations and serve as prey for larger animals.
If you spot an Eastern hognose, remember to observe from a distance. Like all wild animals, they deserve respect and space.
Western Ribbon Snake (Thamnophis proximus proximus)
The Western Ribbon Snake is a slender, semi-aquatic snake found in Arkansas. You can identify it by its long, thin body and distinctive stripes running down its length.
These snakes typically grow to 20-50 inches in total length. They have a dark body with three light-colored stripes – one down the back and one on each side.
You’ll often find Western Ribbon Snakes near water sources. They’re excellent swimmers and spend much of their time in or around ponds, streams, and wetlands.
Their diet consists mainly of small fish, frogs, and tadpoles. These snakes are non-venomous and generally harmless to humans.
In Arkansas, you might spot Western Ribbon Snakes active at dawn and dusk during spring and fall. In summer, they may become nocturnal to avoid the heat.
If you’re interested in snake conservation, it’s good to know that Western Ribbon Snakes play an important role in their ecosystem. They help control populations of small aquatic animals.
Remember, if you encounter one in the wild, it’s best to observe from a distance. These snakes are an interesting part of Arkansas’s diverse wildlife.
Eastern Ribbon Snake (Thamnophis sauritus sauritus)
The Eastern Ribbon Snake is a slender, non-venomous snake you might spot in Arkansas. It’s a subspecies of the common ribbon snake and belongs to the garter snake family.
You can identify this snake by its long, thin body and distinctive stripes. It has three light-colored stripes running along its dark body. The snake’s belly is usually pale or white.
Eastern Ribbon Snakes typically grow to be 16 to 35 inches long. They’re active during the day and prefer to live near water.
If you’re looking for these snakes, check near:
- Wetlands
- Pond edges
- Stream banks
Their diet mainly consists of small aquatic animals. You might see them hunting for:
- Frogs
- Salamanders
- Fish
- Tadpoles
Eastern Ribbon Snakes are protected in some areas, so be careful not to disturb them if you come across one. They play an important role in controlling small animal populations in their habitats.
During winter, these snakes go underground. You’re more likely to spot them basking in the sun on logs or rocks during warmer months.
Plains Garter Snake (Thamnophis radix)
The Plains Garter Snake is a common species in the central United States, including parts of Arkansas. You can easily identify this snake by its distinctive orange or yellow stripe running from head to tail.
The rest of its body is mostly gray-green in color. Plains Garter Snakes typically grow to be 16-28 inches long.
You’ll often find these snakes near water sources like streams and ponds. They also live in grassy areas and fields.
Plains Garter Snakes are active from March to November in most areas. They’re known for being one of the most cold-tolerant snake species. On warmer winter days, you might even see them basking in the sun.
These snakes eat a varied diet, including:
- Small rodents
- Birds
- Amphibians
- Fish
If you encounter a Plains Garter Snake, don’t worry. They’re not dangerous to humans. These snakes play an important role in controlling pest populations in their habitats.
Common Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis sirtalis)
The common garter snake is a widespread species you might spot in Arkansas. These snakes typically have yellow stripes running along their bodies, set against a black, brown, or green background.
You can expect to see common garter snakes reach an average length of about 22 inches. Some may grow up to 54 inches long.
These snakes are not dangerous to humans. They may bite if handled, but their bite is not venomous.
Common garter snakes eat a varied diet. They feed on:
- Earthworms
- Frogs
- Small fish
- Salamanders
You’ll often find these snakes near water sources. They like to live in moist areas such as:
- Marshes
- Meadows
- Woodlands
- Hillsides
In winter, common garter snakes gather in large groups to hibernate. They may share these dens with other snake species.
If you come across a common garter snake, you might notice it move very quickly. These snakes are known for their speed and stamina when trying to escape potential threats.
Prairie Kingsnake (Lampropeltis calligaster calligaster)
The Prairie Kingsnake is a nonvenomous snake you might encounter in Arkansas. These snakes have a unique appearance that sets them apart from other species.
You can identify Prairie Kingsnakes by their light brown or gray body with darker brown blotches. They often have a yellow or cream-colored belly, which is why they’re sometimes called Yellow-bellied Kingsnakes.
Prairie Kingsnakes typically grow to be 3-4 feet long. They have small heads compared to their body size, which helps distinguish them from some other snake species.
In the wild, you can expect these snakes to live around 10 years. However, in captivity, they can live up to 24 years.
These snakes prefer habitats like prairies, open woodlands, and farmlands. You might find them hiding under logs or rocks during the day.
Prairie Kingsnakes are excellent hunters. They mainly eat rodents, but they also feed on frogs, lizards, and sometimes other snakes.
If you come across a Prairie Kingsnake, don’t worry. They’re generally docile and not aggressive towards humans. However, like all wild animals, it’s best to observe them from a distance.
Speckled Kingsnake (Lampropeltis holbrooki)
The speckled kingsnake is a nonvenomous snake found throughout Arkansas. You might spot this striking reptile in various habitats across the state.
Adult speckled kingsnakes typically grow up to 58 inches in length. Their distinctive appearance makes them easy to identify.
The snake’s body is black with white or yellow speckles covering each scale. This pattern gives them their common nickname: the salt-and-pepper snake.
Speckled kingsnakes are known for their diverse diet. They eat:
- Small mammals
- Lizards
- Other snakes (including venomous ones)
- Birds and their eggs
Their ability to consume venomous snakes is why they’re called “kingsnakes.”
You can find speckled kingsnakes all over Arkansas. They adapt well to different environments, from forests to prairies.
If you encounter a speckled kingsnake, don’t worry. They’re not aggressive towards humans and play a vital role in controlling rodent populations.
Remember, it’s best to observe these beautiful creatures from a distance. Leaving them undisturbed helps maintain the natural balance of Arkansas’s diverse ecosystem.
Milk Snake (Lampropeltis triangulum)
The milk snake is a nonvenomous snake found in Arkansas. You might spot one in various parts of the state.
These snakes have a distinctive appearance. They typically display patterns of red and white blotches or bands with black borders. However, their coloration can vary.
Milk snakes are often mistaken for venomous coral snakes due to their similar coloring. Remember the rhyme: “Red touch yellow, kill a fellow; red touch black, friend of Jack.”
Milk snakes belong to the kingsnake family. They got their name from an old myth that they could milk cows, which isn’t true.
In Arkansas, you’ll find two types of milk snakes:
- Western Milksnake (L. gentilis)
- Eastern Milksnake (L. triangulum)
These snakes play a vital role in controlling rodent populations. They’re excellent hunters and can squeeze their prey.
If you encounter a milk snake, don’t worry. They’re not aggressive towards humans and prefer to avoid confrontation. Observe from a distance and appreciate their beauty.
Rat Snake (Pantherophis obsoletus)
The Western Ratsnake is a common snake species in Arkansas. You might also hear it called the black rat snake or pilot black snake.
These snakes are large and muscular. As an adult, a Western Ratsnake can grow quite long. They’re excellent climbers and constrictors.
The color of these snakes can vary. In Arkansas, you’ll often see them with a black body. Their chin and throat are usually lighter, often cream or white.
Western Ratsnakes are non-venomous. They play a crucial role in controlling rodent populations. You might spot them in various habitats across Arkansas.
These snakes are adaptable. They can live in forests, fields, and even near human settlements. You might find them in barns or old buildings.
Ratsnakes in Arkansas are part of the Colubridae family. They belong to the genus Pantherophis.
If you’re out hiking, keep an eye out for these fascinating creatures. Remember, they’re more afraid of you than you are of them!
Coachwhip (Masticophis flagellum flagellum)
The coachwhip snake is a long, slender reptile you might spot in Arkansas. It gets its name from its thin body, which looks like a braided whip.
You can recognize this snake by its large eyes and small head. Coachwhips come in different colors, helping them blend into their surroundings.
These snakes are fast movers. They can reach speeds up to 5.8 km/h, making them quick hunters.
The eastern coachwhip is active during the day. It hunts using both smell and sight. You might see it with its head raised, looking for prey.
Coachwhips can grow quite large. Their typical length is:
- 50-72 inches (130-180 cm)
- Maximum recorded length: 102 inches (260 cm)
This makes them one of the biggest native snakes in North America.
If you’re interested in seeing a coachwhip, look in open areas. They prefer habitats with room to move around quickly.
Remember, while coachwhips are non-venomous, it’s best to admire them from a distance. Like all wild animals, they should be respected in their natural habitat.
Rough Green Snake (Opheodrys aestivus)
The rough green snake is a slender, bright green snake you might spot in Arkansas. Its name comes from its rough, keeled scales that give it a slightly textured look.
These snakes are usually 2-3 feet long. Their bright green color helps them blend in with leaves and grass. You’ll notice their belly is lighter, often yellowish or cream-colored.
Rough green snakes are not dangerous to humans. They’re docile and nonvenomous. If you see one, it might let you get close before trying to escape.
You’ll find these snakes in trees, shrubs, and tall grass. They’re great climbers and spend a lot of time off the ground.
Their diet consists mainly of insects and spiders. They use their green color to hide from prey and sneak up on them.
In Arkansas, rough green snakes are active from spring to fall. You’re most likely to see them on warm, sunny days.
If you want to spot one, look in areas with lots of vegetation. They like forests, meadows, and areas near water. Remember to observe from a distance to avoid disturbing them in their natural habitat.
Bullsnake (Pituophis catenifer sayi)
The bullsnake is a large, nonvenomous snake you might encounter in Arkansas. It’s a subspecies of the gopher snake and one of the longest snakes in North America.
You can identify a bullsnake by its:
- Light yellow or straw-colored body
- Dark blotches along its back
- Smaller blotches or bars on its sides
- Light-colored belly with dark spots
Bullsnakes typically grow 4 to 6 feet long, but some can reach up to 8 feet in length. This impressive size can make them look intimidating, but they’re harmless to humans.
You might mistake a bullsnake for a rattlesnake due to its size and defensive behaviors. When threatened, it may:
- Flatten its head
- Hiss loudly
- Vibrate its tail
These actions are just for show. Bullsnakes don’t have venom and pose no real danger to you.
In your garden or farm, bullsnakes can be helpful. They eat rodents like mice and rats, helping to control pest populations naturally.
Ring-Necked Snake (Diadophis punctatus edwardsii)
The ring-necked snake is a small, secretive serpent you might spot in Arkansas. Its name comes from the distinctive yellow or orange ring around its neck.
These snakes typically grow to 10-15 inches long. Their body color ranges from bluish-grey to black, with a bright underside matching the neck ring.
You’ll find ring-necked snakes are mostly nocturnal and fossorial, meaning they spend a lot of time underground. This makes them a bit tricky to spot in the wild.
If you’re lucky enough to see one, don’t worry – they’re harmless to humans. These little snakes prefer to eat small prey like earthworms, slugs, and salamanders.
In Arkansas, you’re most likely to find ring-necked snakes in forested areas. They like to hide under rocks, logs, or leaf litter.
Remember, if you come across a ring-necked snake, it’s best to observe from a distance. These shy creatures play an important role in the ecosystem, helping to control insect and slug populations.
Eastern Coral Snake (Micrurus fulvius) – Rare Sighting
The Eastern coral snake is a rare and stunning species you might encounter in Arkansas. Its vibrant red, yellow, and black bands make it easy to spot, but sightings are uncommon.
You’ll find these snakes mostly in the southeastern part of Arkansas. They prefer wooded areas, hiding under leaves and logs. Eastern coral snakes are shy and avoid human contact when possible.
While beautiful, these snakes are highly venomous. Their venom affects the nervous system. But don’t worry too much – bites are very rare due to their secretive nature.
If you see one, remember this rhyme: “Red touch yellow, kill a fellow; red touch black, friend of Jack.” This helps tell coral snakes from similar-looking non-venomous snakes.
Eastern coral snakes are small, usually 2-3 feet long. They have a slender body and a blunt head. Their diet consists mainly of other snakes and lizards.
Key Facts:
- Venomous, but rarely bite humans
- Prefers wooded habitats
- Active mainly during the day
- Protected species in some areas
Remember, if you’re lucky enough to spot one, keep your distance and enjoy the rare sight!
