O u tr e a c h D a y 2 0 1 6
NON-VENOMOUS SNAKES OF EAST TEXAS
Speckled Kingsnake
What Kind of Snakes Live in East Texas?
There are many types, ranging from Rat Snakes all the way to Water Snakes. Below are two examples of non-venomous snakes that live in our area: Eastern Coachwhip
Eastern Coachwhip
Like to live in open country, and prefer warmer temperatures.
Some of the fastest types of snakes.
Typically are around five feet long.
S n a k e I den t if i ca t i on T i ps : 1)
W a t c h out f or s n a k e’s s k in a n d p a t t ern s
2)
L o ok a t t he s n a k es e yes . S lit p u p i ls of t en m ea n it i s
Speckled Kingsnake
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Prefer wetter habitats than other snakes, but can live in woodland areas.
When threatened, can shake its tail like a rattlesnake.
r u le .
Guide created by: Megan Knippers Stephen F. Austin State University March 9, 2016
What’s So Important About Snakes? Snakes help keep the balance in the natural food chain. They prey on smaller pests that otherwise would bother us in our gardens and our homes; some examples would be rats and mice. Usually stuck under the stereotype of being aggressive without cause, snakes often have a bad reputation. In reality, most non-venomous snakes are actually not aggressive unless they are mishandled!
If the Snakes are Non-Venomous, Should We Still Be Careful Around Them? Most definitely, yes. Like all wildlife, snakes, both venomous and nonvenomous, should be treated with respect. Non-venomous snakes still have teeth and can deliver a painful bite if harassed.
Other Non-Venomous Snakes In the East Texas Area
Rat Snake
Can be over six feet long.
Enjoy living in brush, wood, and leaf piles.
Tan Racer Snake
Eastern Hognose Snake
Like to climb trees to get to birds nests.
Texas Brown Snake
Have upturned snouts.
Sometimes called “puff adders”.
Likes to prey on frogs, salamanders, and even small birds.
Does not like brush piles, but likes to live in tall grasses.
Likes the open country.
Fastest moving species of snake in East Texas.
Broad-Banded Water Snake
Usually short in size.
Likes to live around water.
Likes to hide under leaf and rock piles.
Can be five feet long.
Don’t pick these guys up; they are easily angered and will bite.
Typically come out of the water to warm in the sun and rest.