Snake myths, practical clues, and safer decisions.

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Published snake guide

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177 published

North American Racer

Coluber constrictor

No medically significant venom known

Coluber constrictor — commonly called the Eastern/Western/Classic North American Racer (collectively 'North American Racer') — is a fast, diurnal, nonvenomous colubrid widely distributed across North America. Active hunters of small vertebrates and large insects, racers help control pest populations but may enter yards hunting frogs, rodents, or birds. They typically flee when approached but can bite if cornered and may release foul-smelling cloacal musk as a defense.

Northern Cat-eyed Snake

Leptodeira septentrionalis

Potentially venomous

Leptodeira septentrionalis (Northern Cat-eyed Snake) is a mildly venomous, rear-fanged nocturnal snake found in suitable habitats from Mexico into parts of the southern United States and possibly marginally into southernmost areas of North America database coverage. It feeds mainly on frogs, tadpoles, lizards, and small vertebrates, is generally non-aggressive toward people, and typically relies on retreat and camouflage when disturbed. Avoid attempting to handle or capture this species; bites can produce localized pain and swelling in sensitive individuals.

Northern Cottonmouth

Agkistrodon piscivorus

Venomous

Agkistrodon piscivorus — Northern Cottonmouth: a semi-aquatic pitviper found in the southeastern United States and extreme southern Ontario, often associated with slow-moving water, wetlands, and riparian zones. Venomous; delivers hemotoxic and cytotoxic venom that can cause significant tissue damage and medical complications. Typically defensive when threatened; will gape, display a white mouth interior, and may vibrate its tail. Homeowners should avoid approaching or attempting to handle these snakes and take precautions to reduce attractants near buildings and water features.