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Browse three reviewed snakes at a time. Changing pages does not reload or move you away from the myths below.
Virginia valeriae
No medically significant venom known
Virginia valeriae (Smooth Earthsnake) is a small, secretive, nonvenomous colubrid native to eastern North America. It spends much of its time underground or under debris in woodlands, fields, and edge habitats. Bites are extremely rare and not medically significant. Homeowners are most likely to encounter it under rocks, logs, boards, or in mulch and leaf litter.
Opheodrys vernalis
No medically significant venom known
A small, slender, nonvenomous green snake native to parts of North America, typically found in grassy, open habitats. Mostly insectivorous, generally nonaggressive and relies on camouflage and escape; may musk or defecate if handled. Not known to pose significant risk to people or livestock but should not be handled.
Micruroides euryxanthus
Venomous
Micruroides euryxanthus (Sonoran coral snake) is a small, secretive elapid found in arid and semi-arid habitats of the southwestern United States, Mexico, and isolated areas of southern California. It is mildly to highly venomous (elapid) and delivers neurotoxic venom via fixed front fangs. Bites are uncommon due to its reclusive habits and small mouth, but envenomation can be medically significant and requires prompt hospital evaluation and antivenom when indicated.
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.