Snakes

Types of Snakes

The United States is home to a wide variety of snake species, each adapted to its unique environment. Here’s an overview of some of the most commonly encountered snakes:

Garter Snakes (Thamnophis spp.)

Garter snakes are small to medium-sized, non-venomous snakes recognizable by their longitudinal stripes. They thrive in gardens, grasslands, and near water sources, making them frequent visitors to suburban areas across the U.S.

Eastern Ratsnake (Pantherophis alleghaniensis)

Also known as the black rat snake, this non-venomous snake is commonly found in the eastern and central U.S. They are excellent climbers, often seen in forests, fields, or near buildings and barns, helping to control rodent populations.

Western Diamondback Rattlesnake (Crotalus atrox)

Native to the southwestern U.S., this venomous rattlesnake is one of the most iconic species. Recognizable by its diamond-shaped patterns and distinctive rattling sound, it is best known for its potent venom and defensive behavior.

Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix)

Copperheads are venomous pit vipers, found in the eastern and southeastern U.S. Known for their copper-colored heads, they prefer wooded areas and are often well camouflaged, making them harder to spot.

Cottonmouth (Agkistrodon piscivorus)

Also called water moccasins, these venomous snakes are found in the southeastern U.S. They are semi-aquatic, often inhabiting swamps, streams, and lakes, and are known for the white coloration inside their mouths.

Timber Rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus)

These venomous rattlesnakes inhabit the eastern U.S., preferring forests and mountainous regions. Their rattling serves as a warning to would-be threats, making them both feared and respected.

Bullsnake (Pituophis catenifer)

Often confused with rattlesnakes, bullsnakes are large, non-venomous snakes found in various parts of the U.S. Known for their loud hissing and ability to mimic rattlesnake sounds, they are beneficial for pest control.

Eastern Coral Snake (Micrurus fulvius)

This venomous snake, found in the southeastern U.S., is recognized by its vibrant red, yellow, and black bands. Its venom is highly potent, though coral snake bites are rare.

Ring-necked Snake (Diadophis punctatus)

A small, non-venomous snake, ring-necked snakes are known for their distinctive yellow or orange neck rings. They inhabit forests and grasslands across the U.S. and are harmless to humans.

Corn Snake (Pantherophis guttatus)

Corn snakes are non-venomous constrictors native to the southeastern U.S. Their attractive coloration and docile nature have made them popular pets, but they play a vital role in controlling rodent populations in the wild.

Snake Life Cycle

The life cycle of snakes is a remarkable process, encompassing several stages from birth or hatching to adulthood:

Birth or Hatching

Snakes can be either viviparous (giving live birth) or oviparous (laying eggs).

• Viviparous Snakes: Females give birth to live young, nourishing them internally until they are ready to survive independently.
• Oviparous Snakes: These species lay eggs in protected areas, such as underground burrows or decaying vegetation. After hatching, the young are left to fend for themselves.

Juvenile Stage

Once born or hatched, young snakes (juveniles) are typically smaller and more vibrant in color. During this vulnerable stage, they learn to hunt and avoid predators.

Growth and Development

Snakes grow throughout their lives by periodically shedding their skin in a process known as ecdysis. Juveniles shed more frequently as they grow rapidly, while adults shed less often.

Maturity

Snakes reach sexual maturity at different ages depending on the species. Some become adults within a few years, while others, like larger constrictors, take longer to mature.

Reproduction

Mating can involve complex courtship behaviors. After mating, females either lay eggs or carry embryos to full term before giving birth. Parental care, if any, is typically minimal and limited to guarding the eggs.

Lifespan

Snakes can live for several years, with some species living up to several decades. Larger snakes, such as pythons and boas, generally have longer lifespans.

What Do Snakes Eat?

Snakes are carnivorous predators, and their diet can vary based on size, habitat, and species. Here’s what they typically eat:

Rodents

Mice, rats, voles, and squirrels are common prey for many snake species, including garter snakes, rat snakes, and pythons. They help control rodent populations, making them essential to ecosystem balance.

Birds

Tree-climbing snakes, such as rat snakes, prey on birds and bird eggs. They may ambush birds in nests or catch them on branches.

Amphibians

Frogs, toads, and salamanders are favorite prey for species like water snakes and garter snakes, especially in wetland areas.

Insects

Smaller snakes, like the ring-necked snake, may consume insects, including grasshoppers, beetles, and crickets, especially when they are juveniles.

Fish

Aquatic species such as water snakes and sea snakes primarily feed on fish. Their aquatic adaptations allow them to catch fish with precision.

Other Reptiles

Some snakes, including king snakes, are known for eating other snakes, including venomous species like rattlesnakes. They also consume lizards.

Mammals

Large constrictors, such as pythons and boas, can tackle bigger prey, such as deer, pigs, and monkeys. They use their powerful coils to constrict and subdue their prey.

Eggs

Certain species, like the African egg-eating snake, specialize in raiding nests for eggs, which they swallow whole.

Contact RH Pest Management for Snake Control

If you encounter snakes around your home or business, RH Pest Management offers professional and humane snake control services. Whether it’s harmless or venomous, RH Pest Management has the expertise to handle all types of snake situations safely and effectively.