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Browse three reviewed snakes at a time. Changing pages does not reload or move you away from the myths below.
Clonophis kirtlandii
No medically significant venom known
Kirtland's Snake (Clonophis kirtlandii) is a small, secretive, nonvenomous colubrid native to parts of the Midwestern and Great Lakes region of the United States and adjacent areas of Canada. It prefers wetland edges and grassy, marshy habitats and is often found under cover objects. Populations are localized and declining in parts of its range due to habitat loss.
Tropidoclonion lineatum
No medically significant venom known
Tropidoclonion lineatum (lined snake) is a small, secretive natricine snake native to central and western North America. It favors moist grasslands and edges of wetlands and agricultural fields. Non-aggressive and primarily nocturnal/crepuscular in hot weather, it feeds on earthworms and soft-bodied invertebrates. Not considered medically venomous to humans; bite rarely occurs and would cause only minor local effects. Homeowners should avoid handling, keep pets supervised, and maintain tidy yards to reduce encounters.
Rhinocheilus lecontei
Potentially venomous
Rhinocheilus lecontei (Long-nosed Snake) is a slender, small- to medium-sized colubrid found in arid and semi-arid regions of western North America. Distinctive for its slightly upturned snout and tri-colored banding (black, red, and cream), it is primarily nocturnal and feeds on small reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates. It is not considered dangerously venomous to humans but can produce mild oral secretions; treat as potentially venomous and avoid handling.
Juvenile venomous snakes can deliver medically significant bites, but the common claim that they are automatically more dangerous because they cannot control venom delivery is not supported as a general rule. Adult snakes usually have larger venom glands and can deliver a larger total amount.
Bottom line: Treat every suspected venomous snakebite as a medical emergency, regardless of the snake’s age.
Head shape alone is unreliable. Many nonvenomous snakes flatten or widen the head defensively, and viewing angle can change the apparent shape.
Bottom line: Do not approach a snake to inspect its head. Use multiple traits, location, and a safe-distance photograph.
Tourniquets can worsen tissue injury and are not recommended for typical United States snakebites. Emergency evaluation is more important.
Bottom line: Call 911 or Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222. Keep the person calm and do not cut, suck, ice, or tourniquet the bite.
Young copperheads can have a contrasting yellow or greenish tail tip used in caudal luring. It is soft and tapered, not a segmented rattle. The bright color usually fades with age.
Bottom line: Never move closer to inspect the tail. The feature is a clue, not permission to approach or handle the snake.
Several non-rattlesnake species vibrate their tails when threatened. Dry leaves can make the sound resemble a rattle.
Bottom line: A defensive tail vibration does not identify the species. Keep your distance.