To tell if a snake is venomous, you can look for several key physical characteristics and behaviors, though caution is always advised since close inspection can be dangerous:
- Head Shape : Most venomous snakes have a distinct triangular or broad, flat head due to venom glands located behind their eyes. Non-venomous snakes typically have more rounded heads. An exception is the coral snake, which has a rounded head despite being venomous
- Pupils : Venomous snakes often have vertical, slit-like pupils similar to a cat's eye, while non-venomous snakes usually have round pupils. Coral snakes are an exception with round pupils despite being venomous
- Heat-Sensing Pits : Many venomous snakes in the U.S., such as rattlesnakes, copperheads, and cottonmouths (pit vipers), have heat-sensing pits located between their eyes and nostrils. These pits help them detect prey
- Color Patterns : Color can be misleading since many non-venomous snakes mimic venomous ones. However, coral snakes have a distinctive red, yellow, and black banding pattern. The rhyme "red on yellow, you're a dead fellow; red on black, you're okay Jack" helps distinguish venomous coral snakes from non-venomous lookalikes
- Body Shape : Venomous snakes often have thicker, more robust bodies compared to slender non-venomous snakes
- Underbelly Scales : Venomous snakes tend to have a single row of scales leading to the anal plate on their underbelly, which can be a distinguishing feature
- Behavioral Signs : Some venomous snakes, like coral snakes, may raise their heads and curl their tails as a warning when threatened
It's important to note that these indicators are generalizations and there are exceptions. The safest approach is to avoid close contact with any snake unless you are trained in snake identification. If you encounter a snake and are unsure whether it is venomous, it is best to keep a safe distance and contact professional wildlife removal services if necessary
. Summary of key identifiers:
Feature| Venomous Snake| Non-venomous Snake| Exception/Notes
---|---|---|---
Head Shape| Triangular or broad| Rounded| Coral snake has rounded head
Pupils| Vertical slit-like| Round| Coral snake has round pupils
Heat-Sensing Pits| Present in pit vipers| Absent| Coral snakes lack pits
Color Patterns| Variable; coral snakes have red-yellow-black bands| Variable;
some mimic venomous snakes| Use rhyme for coral vs king snake
Body Shape| Thick, robust| Slender|
Underbelly Scales| Single row leading to anal plate| Usually different
pattern|
Always prioritize safety and avoid handling or approaching snakes unless you are certain of their identity and venom status
