What are the 7 Venomous Snakes of Louisiana?

If you’re like 51% of Americans, snakes are one of your biggest fears. Whether it’s general distaste or full blown ophidiophobia, a fear of snakes has some roots in reality. We don’t mean to alarm you, but there are 7 venomous snakes who call Louisiana home. Read on to learn more about the 7 most deadly snakes of Louisiana and tips for keeping them far, far away from your home.

1. Copperhead

The copperhead snake is one of the more eye-catching venomous snakes, but you’d be wise to be wary of it. This snake is on the smaller side, ranging from 14 to 25 inches long. The infamous hourglass-like pattern fills its body while the head is typically a copper or orange tone (hence the name). This snake camouflages well into its surroundings. You’ll typically find them in forests and woods throughout nearly all of Louisiana.

2. Canebrake Rattlesnake

You might also hear this pit viper referred to as a timber rattlesnake. These large serpents can grow up to 6 feet but typically range from 25 to 70 inches. Their appearance is characterized by black rattles on their tails and grayish hue. Canebrake rattlesnakes typically dwell in thickets, forests and rural areas. They’re most commonly seen during the spring, but males are also active during the summer and fall as they look for mates.

3. Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake

The Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake is one of the easiest to identify. The largest of all rattlesnakes, they range from 25 to 90 inches and can weigh up to 10 pounds. Diamond-like shapes form large patterns across the serpent’s back. Though they’re not often seen in Louisiana, these snakes are known to strike if feeling threatened.

4. Pygmy Rattlesnakes

The Pygmy rattlesnake is one of the smallest rattlesnakes. These little guys are typically light gray or tan with dark-colored blotches. They love grassy areas where they can find plenty of frogs, lizards and insects. Pygmy rattlesnakes are not known for being aggressive but can be quite hard to spot.

5. Texas Coral Snake

If you’ve ever seen a Texas Coral snake, chances are you’ll never forget it. It has the classic coral snake pattern of black, red and yellow rings. These smooth-scaled serpents don’t just call the Lone Star State its home. They’re also present in the central and northern Louisiana. They favor humid habitats and are some of the most toxic of all snakes in the United States.

6. Harlequin Coral Snake

Harlequin Coral Snakes are nearly identical to Texas Coral Snakes. The most obvious difference between the two is that the black ring on the neck of the Harlequin does not touch its parietal shields. Regardless, both species are venomous and quite good at hiding. It’s unlikely you’ll run across many in Louisiana unless you’re in the Florida parishes.

7. Cottonmouth

The cottonmouth is the stuff of legends in the South. These large, water-loving serpents can strike fear in the bravest of souls with their dark coloring and white-lined mouth. They can grow up to 55 inches and are quite agile swimmers. Cottonmouths are well-known for being aggressive, and their bites are potentially fatal.

 

A Word on Keeping Snakes Out of Your Home Of course, the last thing you want is one of these creatures in your home. They are known to enter dwellings during the winter in search of warmer temperatures. Here’s how you can keep your home snake-free:

• Keep your grass cut and landscaping well-trimmed
• Seal any cracks in your foundation, floors and ceilings
• Avoid stacking woodpiles near your home
• Exterminate rodents, insects and other food sources

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