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Browse three reviewed snakes at a time. Changing pages does not reload or move you away from the myths below.
Pituophis ruthveni
No medically significant venom known
Pituophis ruthveni (Louisiana pinesnake) is a large, nonvenomous colubrid endemic to parts of the southeastern United States. Secretive and primarily terrestrial, it inhabits longleaf pine and xeric pine systems with sandy soils. Populations are small and declining due to habitat loss and fragmentation; it is a species of conservation concern.
Lampropeltis knoblochi
No medically significant venom known
Lampropeltis knoblochi — commonly called the Madrean mountain kingsnake — is a nonvenomous colubrid native to montane and pine-oak habitats in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It is chiefly diurnal to crepuscular, preys on reptiles and small mammals, and plays a role as both predator and prey in its ecosystems. Adults are generally docile but should not be handled in the field.
Tantilla atriceps
No medically significant venom known
Small, secretive colubrid native to Mexico, the southern United States, and southern Baja; nocturnal and fossorial, often found under debris and in leaf litter. Not known to be dangerous to humans; produces mild venom for subduing small prey but has no medically significant venom.
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.