Florida is home to a divers range of serpent species , making it one of the most entrancing state for reptile enthusiasts . From harmless garden snake to herculean constrictor , snakes in Floridathrive in various home ground , including swamps , timber , and even residential areas . With its warm climate and abundant water sources , Florida provides the consummate environment for both aboriginal and non - native snakes to boom .
Among thesnakes in Florida , some are altogether harmless , while others possess venomous bites that want caution . name these Snake is essential for anyone who relish outdoor activities in the United States Department of State . Understanding their unique patterns , conduct , and home ground can facilitate occupier and visitant safely coexist with these reptiles .
This templet covers 60 differentsnakes in Florida , complete with pictures and cardinal identification features . Whether you ’re a wildlife fancier or just rum about the snakes you may bump , this list will help you spot and treasure the incredible variety of Florida ’s snake in the grass universe .
Different Types of Snakes in Florida
Florida Cottonmouth
The Florida Cottonmouth ( Agkistrodon conanti ) is one of the most deadly snakes in Florida , oftentimes discover in wetland , lakes , and rivers . It has a thick , muscular physical structure , dark colour , and a typical white-hot mouth interior , which it displays as a warning when threatened . Younger someone have more pronounced patterns with a yellow - bung tail used to tempt quarry .
As an ambuscade predator , the Cottonmouth feed on Pisces , frogs , and small mammal . Unlike manywater snakes , it may stand its ground when face rather than flee . Its venom can stimulate severe tissue paper damage , and quick aesculapian tending is necessary if bitten .
Corn Snake
The Corn Snake ( Pantherophis guttatus ) is a nonvenomous constrictor native to the southeast United States , often find oneself in forests , grasslands , and desert construction . Recognizable by its bright orange , red , and brown pattern , this specie is sometimes misguided for the poisonous Copperhead , though it perplex no terror to humans .
Corn Snakes are skilled climbers and burrowers , frequently hunting gnawer in barn and fields . They use tightness to subdue fair game , which includes mouse , lizards , and small birds . Due to their gentle temperament and striking coloration , they are among the most pop pet snakes in the mankind .
Eastern Ratsnake
The Eastern Ratsnake ( Pantherophis alleghaniensis ) , also known as the Yellow Ratsnake inFlorida , is a large , nonvenomous species found in forests , farmlands , and suburban areas . Its colour vary based on region , ranging from promising xanthous with dark stripes to solid black in northern population .
These snakes are excellent climbers and often figure Ionic or barns in hunt of rodent . They are essential for control pest population but may startle homeowners when establish indoors . Although they may hiss and mimic rattlesnake by vibrating their tails , they are harmless and typically avoid encounter .
Dusky Pygmy Rattlesnake
The Dusky Pygmy Rattlesnake ( Sistrurus miliarius barbouri ) is a diminished but venomous quarry viper found in forests , marshes , and grassland throughout Florida . It has a thickset , gray dead body with gloomy splotch and a distinctive orangish - red stripe work along its back .
Though its venom is not typically fatal to humanity , raciness can be painful and require medical attention . Unlike larger rattler , its rale is small and produces a faint buzzing sound that is often difficult to hear . The Dusky Pygmy Rattlesnake chiefly preys on frogs , lizard , and insects , using its ambush hunting strategy to beguile unsuspecting prey .
Ring-necked Snake
The Ring - necked Snake ( Diadophis punctatus ) is a low , nonvenomous Hydra found throughout Florida , boom in forest , grasslands , and suburban areas . It is easily acknowledge by its dark , slender dead body , lustrous yellow , cherry-red , or orange underbelly , and a distinctive ring around its neck , though this marking may sometimes be absent . Adults typically grow to only 10 - 15 inches in distance , making them one of the smaller snake species in the region .
These Snake River are nocturnal hunters , emerge at night to prey on small invertebrates , amphibians , and lizards . They are closelipped and often blot out under rocks , log , or leaf bedding material during the day . Though harmless to humans , they produce a mild toxin in their spittle to aid subdue their fair game . Females lay small clutches of eggs in moist surround , such as rotting logs or damp soil , ensuring optimal conditions for hatching .
Ribbon Snake
The Ribbon Snake ( Thamnophis saurita ) is a slender , fast - moving , nonvenomous snake commonly found near freshwater sources like stream , marshes , and ponds . It has a classifiable show with a morose green or brown body and three bright yellow longitudinal stripes running along its length . Its underbelly is typically pale xanthous , further distinguishing it from other coinage .
Growing between 14 and 28 inches , Ribbon Snakes are excellent swimmers and agile Hunter , primarily feed on fish , anuran , and other small amphibians . Juveniles resemble adult but often come out darker , with less marked stripe . These snakes are diurnal and highly alert , cursorily fleeing into water or vegetation when threatened . Unlike many other snakes , they give nativity to live young rather than put eggs , with litter typically consisting of 4 - 27 offspring .
Eastern Diamond-backed Rattlesnake
The Eastern Diamond - backed Rattlesnake ( Crotalus adamanteus ) is the largest and most poisonous ophidian in Florida , often surpass 5 feet in length . It has a heavy consistency cover in classifiable dark infield - shaped markings limn in light musical scale , giving it its name . This rattlesnake prefers pine flatwoods , juiceless arenaceous habitats , and scrublands , where it remains well - camouflage among fallen leave of absence and botany .
Despite its potent spite , the Eastern Diamond - backed Rattlesnake is not strong-growing and ordinarily avoid human encounters . It will , however , remain firm its earth if threatened , hand-build and rattling its tail as a warning before striking . Females give nascence to live young in late summer , with bedding material reaching up to 29 materialization . Due to habitat destruction and hunting , populations of this iconic coinage are pass up in some areas .
North American Racer
The North American Racer ( Coluber constrictor ) is a flowing , nonvenomous snake commonly come up in open subject field , forests , and suburban areas . It is known for its velocity and agility , allowing it to quickly fudge predators . Adult racers are typically self-colored black with a white chin , while juveniles have a mottled , patterned appearance that fades with age .
These snakes are diurnal Hunter , bank on their astute sightedness to detect prey such as small mammals , birds , and insects . Though they may act defensively by vibrating their tails or striking when corner , they pose no real threat to humanity and prefer to fly rather than fight .
Banded Watersnake
The Banded Watersnake ( Nerodia fasciata ) is a nonvenomous aquatic species commonly found in swampland , rivers , and marshes across the southeast United States . It has a portly body with sour , irregular bands across a brown , reddish , or grey setting , helping it camouflage in its watery habitat .
Despite often being mistaken for the venomous Cottonmouth , the Banded Watersnake is harmless . However , when threatened , it drop its oral sex and emits a foul - smelling musk as a defense mechanism . It in the first place preys on fish , amphibian , and small invertebrates , hunting both during the day and at Nox .
Brown Watersnake
The Brown Watersnake ( Nerodia taxispilota ) is a large , nonvenomous , semi - aquatic snake commonly rule in river , swamps , and lakes throughout Florida . It has a boneheaded body covered in chocolate-brown or tan colouration with sour brown blotches , often head to mix-up with the venomous Cottonmouth . However , Brown Watersnakes are not dangerous and bank on their inviolable sharpness rather than venom for defense .
These snakes are highly aquatic and spend most of their time near water , often basking on overhanging leg before diving into the piss when disturbed . They in the main course on Pisces the Fishes , ambush prey from submerged emplacement . Brown Watersnakes are fuck for their strong-growing temperament when handled , striking repeatedly if threaten . They give birth to live vernal , with female producing great litters of up to 60 babies in former summertime .
Brahminy Blindsnake
The Brahminy Blindsnake ( Indotyphlops braminus ) is one of the smallest serpent metal money in Florida , often mistaken for an wiggler due to its tiny size of it and glossy , unvarying dark brown or black dead body . These snakes rarely grow longer than 6 in and have low , vestigial eyes that provide minimum vision , as they spend most of their lives underground .
Brahminy Blindsnakes are harmless and beneficial , feeding on the egg and larvae of pismire and termites . They are commonly found in garden , flower muckle , and loose soil , which has earned them the cognomen “ Flowerpot Snake . ” They are parthenogenetic , have in mind all someone are distaff and procreate without mate , present nascence to genetically identical offspring . Though they are not native to Florida , they have established universe due to human activity and the shipping of soil .
Eastern Coachwhip
The Eastern Coachwhip ( Masticophis scourge flagellum ) is one of the retentive and truehearted ophidian in Florida , capable of maturate up to 8 feet in length . It has a distinctive colour , with a black foreland and upper body that gradually fades into a tan or light-colored brown ass . This pattern resemble the braided leather of a whiplash , giving the species its name .
Eastern Coachwhips are highly dynamic and primarily hunting by survey , often raising their heads above vegetation to skim for fair game , which includes lizards , bird , and small mammals . They are extremely fast and rely on their speed to escape threat rather than struggle . Though they may bite defensively if palm , they are completely nonvenomous . female lay clutches of up to 24 testicle in the summer , with hatchling emerge in later summer or former fall .
Pine Woods Littersnake
The Pine Woods Littersnake ( Rhadinaea flavilata ) is a small , non - venomous snake ordinarily found in pine forests and sloughy area of Florida . This metal money has a brown or reddish - brown colouration , which facilitate it blend in with foliage litter on the forest level .
As its name suggests , the Pine Woods Littersnake primarily inhabits pine timber , but it prefers areas close to water sources for optimum humidity . These snake are close and spend most of their time hiding under log , farewell , or other earth rubble . They primarily feed on small invertebrates such as insects and dirt ball .
Common Garter Snake
The CommonGarter Snake(Thamnophis sirtalis ) is one of the most widespread Hydra species in Florida . This non - venomous snake varies in appearance but is loosely recognized by its green or gray physical structure with trenchant longitudinal stripes running along its length .
These ophidian are highly adaptable and can thrive in various environments , from woodland to suburban gardens . They are have it off for their complex communicating skills , as both male person and female use pheromone to attract mate . Interestingly , some males give out distaff pheromones to draw in other males , a manoeuvre used to partake body heat and accelerate their egression from hibernation . Common Garter Snakes primarily bung on amphibian , little fish , and angleworm .
Rough Greensnake
The Rough Greensnake ( Opheodrys aestivus ) is a slender , non - venomous Snake River commonly found in Florida , Georgia , and surrounding state . It can grow up to 31 inches retentive but remains one of the thinnest snake species in the part .
With its shiny greenish dorsal side and yellowish paunch , the Rough Greensnake is easy placeable . These snakes are excellent climbers and drop much of their time in dense vegetation , where they prey on insect , wanderer , and small invertebrates . They are diurnal , meaning they are most active during the daylight while run for solid food . Despite their striking appearance , Rough Greensnakes are harmless and typically avoid human fundamental interaction .
Eastern Coralsnake
The Eastern Coralsnake ( Micrurus fulvius ) is a highly venomous species discover in Florida . It has a distinctive pattern of black , ruddy , and chickenhearted rings , which serve as a warning to likely marauder .
This species is rarely examine , as Eastern Coralsnakes spend most of their time underground or hidden beneath rubble . They come out to hunt small reptiles such as lizard and other snakes . Their spitefulness is highly potent , and bites should be treated as medical emergencies . These snakes are most commonly establish in pine timberland and sandy soil but have also been describe in suburban areas . Unlike other aggressive venomous snakes , Eastern Coralsnakes tend to flee rather than sharpness unless molest .
Scarletsnake
The Scarletsnake ( Cemophora coccinea ) nearly resembles the Eastern Coralsnake , a mimicry adaptation that helps it avoid vulture . It has a carmine , sinister , and yellow or gray body , along with a pointed hooter that distinguishes it from its venomous vis-a-vis .
Unlike the Eastern Coralsnake , the Scarletsnake is non - virulent and primarily nocturnal . These Snake are seldom seen , as they expend most of their sentence obscure under informal land , leaf litter , or logs . The skilful luck of spotting one occur during ardent summer nights , specially from dusk until late August . Their diet consists primarily of small reptiles and bollock , which they consume by crushing them with their solid jaws .
Scarlet Kingsnake
The Scarlet Kingsnake ( Lampropeltis elapsoides ) is a non - venomous metal money often err for the Eastern Coralsnake due to its red , black , and yellow colouration . However , the pattern arrangement differs , which helps in distinguishing the two .
This species is found throughout Florida but remains baffling because it opt to hide under rocks , logs , and debris . Despite being harmless to humans , Scarlet Kingsnakes are know for their defensive behavior . When do by , they may seize with teeth repeatedly and let go of a foul - sense musk as a balk . These snakes primarily feed on lounge lizard , small gnawer , and other serpent , including vicious species . Their breeding season is quite longsighted , with females set eggs between July and November .
Gray Ratsnake
The Gray Ratsnake ( Pantherophis spiloides ) is a highly adaptable , non - virulent species found in Florida . Thriving in various habitats , admit woodlands , farming area , and urban area , it is an excellent crampoon often seen on trees hunting birds or raid nests for eggs . Its name get from its wont of nesting underground , frequently using rat burrow for shelter and egg - laying .
Since Gray Ratsnakes are not resistant of cold weather condition , they actively look for out rodent burrow to keep quick . Their dieting primarily consists of rodents , birds , and bird testis , making them beneficial for controlling pest population .
Mudsnake
The Mudsnake ( Farancia abacura ) is a semi - aquatic , non - vicious Hydra commonly found in Florida ’s wetlands . Preferring marshes , swamp , and slow - go water system , it seldom ventures onto dry land . It has a glossy calamitous dorsal side and a red or yellow paunch , though it remain hidden in aquatic vegetation and is rarely visit .
Most combat-ready at dark , Mudsnakes may occasionally be spotted crossing roads , specially after pelting . They practice their tail tip to jab and startle prey , mainly amphibious vehicle like salamander , making them unique among Florida ’s snake species .
Dekay’s Brownsnake
Dekay ’s Brownsnake ( Storeria dekayi ) is a low , non - virulent Snake River develop between 6 and 11 inch in distance . It is mostly chocolate-brown with darker markings running along its back and is commonly found in swamps , cypress forests , and moist woodlands . Due to its secretive nature , it is usually discovered accidentally when people lift logs or debris .
This species primarily feeds on soft - incarnate prey such as slugs and worms . It is most often seen after rainfall when its food sources become more active . Though minor , it plays an important part in maintaining ecological balance .
Florida Brownsnake
The Florida Brownsnake ( Storeria victa ) is another pocket-sized , non - venomous species aboriginal to the state . close resemble Dekay ’s Brownsnake , it grows slightly longer , reaching up to 13 in . It prefer swampland and other moist habitats , where it hides under leaves and flora when sensing danger .
Identified by ablack striperunning from head to tail along its brown - colored dead body , the Florida Brownsnake is difficult to spot . juvenile person have a alike appearance to adult , and they reach reproductive matureness around three yr of age .
Eastern Indigo Snake
The Eastern Indigo Snake ( Drymarchon couperi ) is one of the largest non - venomous snakes in the United States , growing over 80 column inch in length . It is almost completely grim and is often compared to the Texas Indigo Snake . This diurnal species is most combat-ready during the day , making summer the best prison term to spot one .
Despite its magnanimous size , the Eastern Indigo Snake is harmless to humans . When imperil , it does not usually bite but rather hisses loudly as a warning . In wintertime , it migrates to dry out , sheltered environments for security from the cold .
Eastern Copperhead
The Eastern Copperhead ( Agkistrodon contortrix ) is a venomous snake known for its potent bite . While its venom is not typically calamitous , it can cause serious medical complications want immediate treatment . It has a distinctive dark-brown and gray-headed coloration that provides first-class disguise in forests and rocky arena .
Active both day and night , the Eastern Copperhead hunts birds , amphibian , and belittled mammals . It is specially common in timber orbit , with mating time of year come in late natural spring — one of the best times to keep this specie in the wilderness .
Eastern Hog-nosed Snake
The Eastern Hog - nosed Snake ( Heterodon platirhinos ) is a non - venomous species named for its classifiable overturned snout . This unique feature aid it burrow in sandlike soil , where it hunt for small animal such as salamanders and birds . Eastern Hog - nosed Snakes display a variety of color morphs , including black and sensationalistic , black and gray , and even solid blackened .
Though harmless , these Snake River have telling defense mechanisms . They flatten out their necks like a cobra , hiss clamorously , and if the threat persist , they may play dead — flipping onto their rear and remaining motionless until danger reach . Their reproductive cycle is also notable , with females laying hold of up to 25 eggs at a meter .
Rainbow Snake
The Rainbow Snake ( Farancia erytrogramma ) is a stunning , non - venomous metal money discover along Florida ’s coastal regions . It is extremely aquatic , spending most of its life in fresh water habitat such as swamps and slow - moving rivers . While its dorsal side is dark , its belly features a vibrant combining of red , white-livered , and black , give it a rainbow - comparable show .
These nocturnal snakes are elusive and seldom encountered on commonwealth . Unlike many other metal money , they are known for being docile and do not prick when handled . female are prolific breeders , capable of laying dozens of egg at once , making them one of the most reproductive specie among Florida ’s non - virulent snakes .
Red-bellied Snake
The Red - bellied Snake ( Storeria occipitomaculata ) is among the smallest snake species in Florida , reaching a maximum length of only 11 in . It is easily identified by its contrasting dark dorsal side and bright red belly . dissimilar colour variations subsist , but the white-haired and red morph is the most common .
These snake are highly secretive , pass most of their time hidden under leaf bedding or logs . They primarily feed on lick , micturate them beneficial to gardens . Unlike many other snake , Red - belly Snakes give giving birth to live young instead of set eggs . female person typically give parturition at the end of summer , producing up to nine offspring at a time .
Florida Green Watersnake
The Florida Green Watersnake ( Nerodia floridana ) is one of the largest aquatic snakes in Florida , growing up to 55 inches in length . Its organic structure is usually dark-brown or dark-brown - shameful , helping it blend in into swampy environments . It is usually found in marshes and wetlands , where it chiefly feed in on Pisces .
This specie has an exceptionally high reproductive rate . Female Florida Green Watersnakes can give parturition to as many as 100 live young in a individual coupling time of year . Although not currently imperil , home ground red due to wetland drain poses a scourge to their population . Their reliance on aquatic environments makes them particularly vulnerable to environmental change .
Glossy Swampsnake
The Glossy Swampsnake ( Liodytes rigida ) is a secretive , non - virulent aquatic snake see in the wetlands of southern Florida . It has a smooth , brown body with a yellowish underside and can grow up to 24 inches in length .
This species primarily feed on crayfish , using its specialised dentition to crush gruelling shells . It is not aggressive and rarely sharpness , even when handled . Instead , it may acquire a hissing speech sound as a DoD mechanism . Due to its elusive nature and preference for aquatic habitat , sightings of the Glossy Swampsnake are rare .
Rough Earthsnake
The Rough Earthsnake ( Haldea striatula ) is a lowly , fossorial ophidian that pass most of its life underground . It has a slender chocolate-brown , grey , or reddish - gray body with a slightly uncut texture , contact a maximum length of around 10 inches .
This species prefers hiding under leaf litter , log , and dust in wooded areas . It feeds on diffused - bodied invertebrate such as earthworm and louse larvae . Rough Earthsnakes are wholly harmless to humans and rely on their close nature to annul predators rather than expose justificatory behaviors .
Red-tailed Boa
The Red - tailed Boa ( Boa constrictor ) is a large , non - venomous constrictor snake preface to Florida from South America . It can acquire up to 10 feet in length and has a robust body with a tan , grayish , or green coloration marked by dark splodge .
This Hydra is an trap predator , feed on gnawer , bird , and small mammals . It kill its prey by tightness , wrap its brawny body around the victim and suffocating it before swallowing it whole . Though not course aggressive , the Red - tailed Boa may prick if threaten , and its potent grip can be difficult to escape .
Apalachicola Kingsnake
The Apalachicola Kingsnake ( Lampropeltis getula meansi ) is a non - virulent snake native to the Apalachicola Lowlands of Florida . It grows up to 48 inches retentive and has a classifiable pattern of idle specks on a obscure background .
These snakes primarily feed on other reptiles , including pocket-sized Snake , lizards , and bird testicle . Like other kingsnakes , they are constrictors and employ their strong coils to subdue quarry . Apalachicola Kingsnakes are by and large docile and opt to flee rather than confront threats , but they may release a musky aroma if care .
Plain-bellied Watersnake
The Plain - belly Watersnake ( Nerodia erythrogaster ) is a semi - aquatic , non - poisonous snake found in Florida . It has a gray - green soundbox with a pale icteric underbelly , though it can display various colour morphs .
Unlike most watersnakes , this mintage spends a meaning amount of time on land . It primarily hunts for fish and crayfish in summertime but moves inland during wintertime to hole up . Its adaptability makes it vulnerable to both aquatic and planetary marauder , particularly in its adolescent stage .
Short-tailed Kingsnake
The abruptly - chase Kingsnake ( Lampropeltis extenuata ) is a small , secretive snake found in Florida ’s pine and oak woodlands . It has a patterned brown body and reaches a maximal length of 20 column inch .
This species prefers ironic or mildly moist soil , where it hunts primarily for reptilian eggs and minuscule prey . Short - tailed Kingsnakes are known for their defensive behaviour of “ false impinging , ” where they mime a snack with a closed mouth instead of in reality bite .
Southeastern Crown Snake
The Southeastern Crown Snake ( Tantilla coronata ) is a small , closemouthed species commonly find in Florida ’s coastal part . It has a slender topaz to brown consistency with a distinct black head or a tan - dark-brown head marked with black . Growing up to 10 inch , this non - venomous Snake River drop most of its life underground .
It primarily run on insects and wanderer and poses no threat to humans . The Southeastern Crown Snake has a notably low reproductive rate , often laying only a exclusive egg after pair . Its baffling nature and tunnel behaviour make it a rare peck in the wild .
Southern Hog-nosed Snake
The Southern Hog - nosed Snake ( Heterodon simus ) is a non - venomous species known for its distinctive upturned snout . It inhabits Florida ’s sandy surface area and is often seen in the morning when it is most active . This Snake River can develop up to 24 column inch prospicient and has a portly consistence with varying colouration .
It specialize in feeding on toads and is immune to their toxin . With its rear fangs , the Southern Hog - nosed Snake can deflate inflated toads , making them well-situated to swallow . Despite their defensive posturing , including playing dead when threaten , these Snake are harmless to humans .
Queensnake
The Queensnake ( Regina septemvittata ) is a semi - aquatic , non - venomous snake commonly found in Florida ’s river and streams . It has a lithesome , gray - green body with a xanthous underbody and is nearly associated with crayfish - rich habitat .
Unlike other crayfish - eat on snakes , the Queensnake only feed on diffuse - cuticle crayfish that have of late moult . It is often found near the water ’s edge , where it hunts in chemical group with other similar snake species . Due to its specialized diet , its population is closely link up to the wellness of fresh water ecosystems .
Rim Rock Crowned Snake
The Rim Rock Crowned Snake ( Tantilla oolitica ) is a rare and endangered species native to southerly Florida , including the Florida Keys . It has a supple , reddish - chocolate-brown body and a black head , growing to a maximal length of 9 inches .
This closemouthed snake primarily feeds on centipedes , worms , and spider . It dwell hardwood hammocks and pine rocklands , but home ground red ink has drastically reduced its number . With its lifelike environment disappearing , the Rim Rock Crowned Snake is now one of Florida ’s most at - risk reptilian species .
Eastern Kingsnake
The Eastern Kingsnake ( Lampropeltis getula ) is a powerful constrictor and one of Florida ’s most resilient ophidian specie . It has a calamitous body pattern with yellow speckles , though some individual are entirely black . This species boom in various habitats , from timberland to swamp , and is especially active during the summertime months .
Eastern Kingsnakes are formidable predators , capable of overpowering and consuming a encompassing salmagundi of prey . They are resistant to the venom of many other ophidian , permit them to hunt and wipe out dangerous mintage such as Copperheads . Their exemption to spitefulness makes them worthful in control populations of virulent Snake River in their ecosystem .
Saltmarsh Snake
The Saltmarsh Snake ( Nerodia clarkii ) is a small , non - venomous species aboriginal to Florida ’s coastal area . It grows between 15 and 30 inches in length and is well - adapted to life in seawater environs . Unlike most watersnakes , it does not rely on fresh water sources but alternatively pledge rain that amass in coastal home ground .
These snakes mainly feed on marine prey , such as Crab and runt , make them unequaled among Florida ’s serpent species . However , industrial development and home ground death jeopardize their population . Coastal building projects have significantly reduced their natural habitat , ca-ca conservation efforts progressively important for their selection .
Timber Rattlesnake
The Timber Rattlesnake ( Crotalus horridus ) is a venomous species recognized by the reddish stripe unravel along its brown - blotched dorsal . While it prefers higher elevation and is not widespread in Florida , small universe exist in the state . This specie is lie with for its strong malice and its classifiable rattle , which it use as a warning signaling when threatened .
Timber rattlesnake arise up to 60 inches foresightful and take several year to mature , with females requiring up to five years before becoming sexually active . As juveniles , they chiefly feed on small rodents , but as they grow , they shift to larger prey such as squirrels and rabbits .
Black Swampsnake
The Black Swampsnake ( Liodytes pygaea ) is a small , non - poisonous snake that reaches about 8 inches in length . It is easily identified by its shiny dark dorsal and vibrant red underbelly . This species is commonly found in cypress swamp and other wetland areas in Florida .
These snakes are secretive and in the first place nocturnal , making them difficult to spot during the day . Unlike many other snakes , Black Swampsnakes rarely bite and favor to fly when encountering humans . Their diet consists mostly of crawler , but they also feed on small fish and salamanders .
Burmese Python
The Burmese Python ( Python bivittatus ) is an invasive mintage in Florida , grow to an tremendous length of up to 23 feet . Originally enclose through the best-loved trade , these snakes have establish a stronghold in the Everglades , where they have decimate universe of native wildlife .
Due to their size of it and military posture , Burmese Pythons have very few natural predators in Florida . They raven on a miscellanea of animate being , include coney , birds , and even small alligators . Wildlife functionary have implemented control measures to reduce their act , but their impact on the ecosystem rest pregnant .
Florida Kingsnake
The Florida Kingsnake ( Lampropeltis floridana ) is a non - venomous constrictor that thrives in forests and pine timberland . It has a browned body with tan crossbands and is known for its power to subdue quarry by coiling around it . While these Snake are not aggressive , they may pass off a foul odor or poke at perceived threats to deter them .
Despite their defensive behaviors , Florida Kingsnakes are harmless to man . Their dieting consists mainly of dame , eggs , and small mammal . As opportunistic hunters , they sometimes consume other snake specie , making them an crucial part of Florida ’s bionomic balance .
African Rock Python
The African Rock Python ( Python sebae ) is another invasive species that has been reported in the Florida Everglades . Slightly small than the Burmese Python , it can still reach lengths of up to 20 foot . Its unbelievable strength allows it to take down large quarry , include goats and cervid .
These python are believed to have escaped from individual assembling and have contributed to the descent of hare populations in the Everglades . Although non - venomous , their rapid reproduction charge per unit stick a important threat to native wildlife . female person can lay up to 100 orchis per clutch , making population control effort especially challenging .
Pine Snake
The Pine Snake ( Pituophis melanoleucus ) is a big , non - venomous species find throughout Florida . It can grow up to 66 inches in length and is characterized by a mixture of black , yellow , and gray colouration . This snake is a skilled burrower , often spending much of its time underground or veil under folio bedding .
Pine Snakes are most active from May to October and are known for their communal nesting behavior , where multiple females place eggs in the same location . Sandy soils provide the ideal surround for their burrowing habit . Despite their large size , they are seldom seen due to their penchant for hole-and-corner home ground .
Florida Crowned Snake
The Florida Crowned Snake ( Tantilla relicta ) is a small , slender , tan - red snake that rarely grows longer than a few inches . It is usually plant across Florida , inhabit sandy terrains and grassland . Due to its fossorial nature , it pass most of its clip underground , making it a uncommon quite a little .
This non - vicious specie is nocturnal and in the first place feeds on beetles and beetle larvae . When threatened , Florida Crowned Snakes release a foul smell as a defense mechanism rather than biting . Despite their closelipped nature , they play an essential role in controlling insect populations .
Smooth Earthsnake
The Smooth Earthsnake ( Virginia valeriae ) is a modest , browned or gray-haired - colored species that grows between 7 to 10 column inch in duration . These snake are fossorial , spending most of their time underground , under leaf bedding material , or beneath logs .
This non - vicious coinage is commonly found in coastal regions of Florida . female person give birth to live young , with up to 14 newborn infant being delivered at the end of summertime . Smooth Earthsnakes primarily run on fishing worm and cushy - bodied insect , making them worthful contributors to soil wellness .
Midland Watersnake
The Midland Watersnake ( Nerodia sipedon pleuralis ) is an aquatic , non - vicious Snake River key by its distinctive crossbands and blotches . It grows up to 34 in and can be promiscuous brown , dark brown , or even green in coloration .
These strong swimmers are commonly found in freshwater habitat , feeding on fish and invertebrate . They rely on their muscular jaws to catch tricky prey . While non - strong-growing , Midland Watersnakes will attempt to swim off when encountering humans . female person give birth to live young , with a unmarried female produce up to 30 young in the summer .
Striped Swampsnake
The Striped Swampsnake ( Liodytes alleni ) , also known as the Striped Crayfish Snake , is a non - deadly species native to Florida ’s wetlands , including swamps and canal . It has a brown or browned - yellow consistence and reaches a maximum length of 30 inches .
These snakes are secretive and nocturnal , making them unmanageable to recognize . When threaten , they may drown away , spiel dead , or sway their head to appear turgid . Striped Swampsnakes in the first place run on sea crawfish , contributing to the balance of wetland ecosystems .
Mole Kingsnake
The Mole Kingsnake ( Lampropeltis rhombomaculata ) is one of the large fossorial snake species in Florida , develop between 30 and 40 inches in duration . It has a light brown , violent , and dark brown blotched pattern , which help it merge into its secret habitat .
These snakes spend most of their lives hidden beneath logs and rocks . They are nocturnal and tip chiefly on lizard and birds , although they are unable to climb . Despite their reclusive nature , Mole Kingsnakes are important marauder that help regulate small animal populations .
Mississippi Green Watersnake
The Mississippi Green Watersnake ( Nerodia cyclopion ) is a non - venomous coinage that thrives in Florida ’s slow - moving water , such as swampland and canals . It has a racy body and a light-green - brown coloration that offer effective disguise in aquatic environments .
These snakes avert human interaction and will apace drown away when upset . However , if at bay , they may bite in self - defense . Even young snake of this coinage parade justificative behaviors . Unlike constrictors , Mississippi Green Watersnakes rely on their powerful jaws to capture and surmount their prey , which consist mainly of fresh water fish and amphibians .
