Take a journey into the fascinating world of reptiles found in Missouri with this comprehensive guide. From the venomous Eastern Copperhead to the docile Dekay’s Brownsnake, this article explores 23 different types of reptiles that call Missouri their home. Delve into the identifying characteristics, habitat preferences, and feeding behaviors of each species, along with range maps to help you locate them. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a hiker, or simply curious about the reptiles that inhabit your state, this guide will provide you with the knowledge you need to appreciate and understand these intriguing creatures. Plus, learn about the potential threats they may pose to humans and whether they are venomous or nonvenomous. Get ready to embark on a reptilian adventure you won’t soon forget!
Eastern Copperhead
Identifying Characteristics
The Eastern Copperhead is a venomous snake found in Missouri. It can grow to a length of up to three feet, with females typically being larger than males. The snake has a distinct pattern on its body, consisting of dark, hourglass-shaped crossbands on a tan or copper-colored background. Its head is triangular and set apart from its body by a narrow neck. The eyes have vertical pupils, which are characteristic of pit vipers.
Habitat Preferences
Eastern Copperheads prefer a variety of habitats, including rocky hillsides, forests, and wetlands. They can also be found in suburban areas, where they may seek shelter in woodpiles, rock walls, or under boards. They are generally more active during the night and early morning, particularly during the spring and fall.
Range Maps
Eastern Copperheads are primarily found in the southeastern United States, including in Missouri. They have a limited range and are not commonly found in the northern parts of the state.
Feeding Behavior
Eastern Copperheads are ambush predators, using their camouflage to blend in with their surroundings and wait for prey to come within striking distance. They primarily feed on small mammals, such as mice and voles, but will also consume birds and amphibians. The snake uses venom to immobilize its prey and begins swallowing it whole once the prey is subdued.
Venomous or Nonvenomous
The Eastern Copperhead is a venomous snake. It has venom glands and long, hollow fangs that it uses to inject venom into its prey. While its venom is not usually fatal to humans, it can cause painful swelling, tissue damage, and other symptoms. If bitten by an Eastern Copperhead, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately.
Potential Threats to Humans
While Eastern Copperheads are venomous, they are generally not aggressive and will typically only bite if threatened or provoked. The majority of bites occur when people accidentally step on or try to handle the snake. To avoid snakebites, it is important to be cautious when walking in areas where snakes may be present, such as tall grass, rocky areas, or wooded regions.
Timber Rattlesnake
Identifying Characteristics
The Timber Rattlesnake, also known as the Canebrake Rattlesnake, is a venomous snake found in Missouri. It is one of the largest venomous snakes in the state, capable of reaching lengths of up to five feet. The snake has a distinctive pattern characterized by dark, diamond-shaped blotches along its back and a rattle at the end of its tail. The coloration can vary, ranging from gray to yellowish-brown.
Habitat Preferences
Timber Rattlesnakes prefer forested areas with rocky outcrops, where they can hide and take cover. They can also be found in hardwood forests, open pine woods, and swampy areas. They are highly secretive and will often retreat and hide when confronted by humans or larger animals.
Range Maps
The Timber Rattlesnake is found throughout the southeastern and eastern parts of Missouri. Its range extends beyond the state, encompassing much of the eastern United States.
Feeding Behavior
Timber Rattlesnakes are ambush predators, relying on their camouflage to blend in with their surroundings and wait for prey. They primarily feed on small mammals, such as mice, rats, and squirrels. The snake uses its venom to immobilize its prey before consuming it whole.
Venomous or Nonvenomous
The Timber Rattlesnake is a venomous snake and possesses a potent venom. Its venom is primarily used to immobilize and kill prey. While bites from Timber Rattlesnakes are rare, they can be extremely dangerous to humans. Medical attention should be sought immediately if bitten by a Timber Rattlesnake.
Potential Threats to Humans
Timber Rattlesnakes are generally non-aggressive and will only bite if threatened or provoked. However, their venom can cause severe symptoms, including pain, swelling, and tissue damage. It is important to exercise caution and avoid contact with Timber Rattlesnakes to reduce the risk of snakebites.
Northern Watersnake
Identifying Characteristics
The Northern Watersnake is a non-venomous snake commonly found in Missouri. It is a medium-sized snake, typically reaching lengths of up to four feet. The snake has a thick, muscular body and keeled scales, which give it a rough appearance. Its coloration can vary, but it often has dark brown or reddish-brown blotches against a lighter background.
Habitat Preferences
Northern Watersnakes are highly adaptable and can be found in a variety of aquatic habitats, including streams, rivers, ponds, and marshes. They are excellent swimmers and are often seen basking on rocks or logs near bodies of water. They are also known to venture into suburban areas and can be found near backyard ponds or swimming pools.
Range Maps
The Northern Watersnake is found throughout Missouri, as well as in many other parts of the eastern and central United States. It has a wide distribution and can adapt to various habitats.
Feeding Behavior
Northern Watersnakes are opportunistic hunters and will feed on a variety of prey, including fish, frogs, and small mammals. They are adept swimmers and use their agility to capture their prey underwater. After capturing their prey, they will constrict it to subdue it before swallowing it whole.
Venomous or Nonvenomous
The Northern Watersnake is a non-venomous snake. While it may strike and bite if threatened, its bite poses no significant threat to humans. The snake’s main defense mechanism is to release a pungent odor and musk when handled or threatened.
Potential Threats to Humans
Northern Watersnakes are generally harmless to humans. However, they may bite if they feel threatened or cornered, and their bite can cause mild pain and swelling. It is important to treat their bites with proper wound care and seek medical attention if necessary.
Northern Cottonmouth
Identifying Characteristics
The Northern Cottonmouth, also known as the Water Moccasin, is a venomous snake found in Missouri. It is a large, heavy-bodied snake that can reach lengths of up to four feet. The snake has a distinct triangular head, a thick body, and similar coloration to its habitat, which can include varying shades of brown or olive. One of its defining characteristics is its white or yellowish mouth, which is often seen when it feels threatened or displays aggression.
Habitat Preferences
Northern Cottonmouths primarily inhabit swamps, marshes, and other wetland areas. They are strong swimmers and are often found near water sources such as lakes, ponds, and slow-moving streams. They can also tolerate brackish water and are known to inhabit coastal areas.
Range Maps
The Northern Cottonmouth is found in the southeastern and southwestern parts of Missouri. Its range extends into other southern states, including Texas and Florida.
Feeding Behavior
Northern Cottonmouths are primarily piscivorous, meaning they primarily feed on fish. However, they also consume amphibians, reptiles, and small mammals when the opportunity arises. They are skilled hunters and will often wait patiently for their prey near the water’s edge before striking.
Venomous or Nonvenomous
The Northern Cottonmouth is a venomous snake. Its venom is primarily used to immobilize and kill its prey. Bites from Northern Cottonmouths can be dangerous to humans and should be treated as a medical emergency. Immediate medical attention should be sought if bitten by a Northern Cottonmouth.
Potential Threats to Humans
Northern Cottonmouths are generally non-aggressive and will only bite if threatened or provoked. However, their bites can cause severe symptoms, including pain, swelling, and tissue damage. Avoiding contact with Northern Cottonmouths and being cautious in their habitat can reduce the risk of snakebites.
Eastern Garter Snake
Identifying Characteristics
The Eastern Garter Snake is a non-venomous snake commonly found in Missouri. It is a small to medium-sized snake, averaging around two feet in length. The snake has a slender body and three longitudinal stripes running down its back, which can vary in color and pattern. The most common coloration includes a black or dark brown stripe down the center, with two lighter stripes on either side.
Habitat Preferences
Eastern Garter Snakes have a wide range of habitats and can be found in meadows, grasslands, woodlands, and even suburban areas. They are often seen near bodies of water such as streams and ponds, where they may take shelter or hunt for prey. They are active throughout the day and can be seen basking in the sun to regulate their body temperature.
Range Maps
The Eastern Garter Snake is found throughout Missouri and has a wide distribution across North America. It is one of the most common snakes in the United States.
Feeding Behavior
Eastern Garter Snakes are primarily carnivorous and feed on a variety of prey, including frogs, worms, insects, and small rodents. They use their keen sense of smell to locate prey and often consume it alive. They are known for their ability to capture and swallow prey larger than their own head.
Venomous or Nonvenomous
The Eastern Garter Snake is a non-venomous snake. While it may bite if threatened or handled, its bite poses no significant threat to humans. If bitten, it is important to clean the wound thoroughly and seek medical attention if necessary.
Potential Threats to Humans
Eastern Garter Snakes are harmless to humans and play a beneficial role in controlling populations of pests such as rodents and insects. They are generally docile and will often flee if confronted by humans. It is important to respect their space and avoid unnecessary handling to reduce stress for the snake and minimize the risk of bites.
Plains Garter Snake
Identifying Characteristics
The Plains Garter Snake is a non-venomous snake commonly found in Missouri. It is a medium-sized snake, reaching lengths of up to three feet. The snake has a slender body and three longitudinal stripes running down its back. The coloration of the stripes can vary, but they are typically yellowish or greenish in color. Some individuals may have black spots or blotches along their sides.
Habitat Preferences
Plains Garter Snakes are highly adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, meadows, marshes, and woodlands. They are often seen near bodies of water, such as streams or ponds, where they may hunt for prey or take shelter. They are active during the day and are frequently observed basking in the sun.
Range Maps
The Plains Garter Snake is found throughout Missouri and has a wide distribution across North America. It is one of the most common snakes in the United States.
Feeding Behavior
Plains Garter Snakes primarily feed on small prey, such as worms, insects, frogs, and small fish. They are known for their ability to capture and consume prey using their sharp teeth and strong jaws. They are skilled hunters and often catch their prey by surprise.
Venomous or Nonvenomous
The Plains Garter Snake is a non-venomous snake. While it may bite if threatened or handled, its bite poses no significant threat to humans. If bitten, it is important to clean the wound thoroughly and seek medical attention if necessary.
Potential Threats to Humans
Plains Garter Snakes are harmless to humans and play a beneficial role in controlling populations of pests such as rodents and insects. They are generally docile and will often flee if confronted by humans. It is important to respect their space and avoid unnecessary handling to reduce stress for the snake and minimize the risk of bites.
Eastern Milksnake
Identifying Characteristics
The Eastern Milksnake is a non-venomous snake commonly found in Missouri. It is a medium-sized snake, typically reaching lengths of up to three feet. The snake has a slender body and smooth scales. It has a distinct color pattern characterized by red or orange blotches bordered by black, brown, or gray bands. The coloration of the bands can vary, but they often contrast significantly with the red or orange blotches.
Habitat Preferences
Eastern Milksnakes are often found in forested areas, but they can also be seen in grasslands, meadows, and rocky areas. They frequently seek shelter under rocks, logs, or debris. They are primarily nocturnal and are most active during the night, although they may occasionally be seen during the day.
Range Maps
The Eastern Milksnake is found throughout Missouri and has a wide distribution across North America. It is one of the most common snakes in the United States.
Feeding Behavior
Eastern Milksnakes are constrictors and primarily feed on small mammals, such as mice, voles, and shrews. They are known for their efficiency in capturing and constricting their prey before swallowing it whole. They will also consume reptiles, amphibians, and sometimes bird eggs.
Venomous or Nonvenomous
The Eastern Milksnake is a non-venomous snake. While it may bite if threatened or handled, its bite poses no significant threat to humans. If bitten, it is important to clean the wound thoroughly and seek medical attention if necessary.
Potential Threats to Humans
Eastern Milksnakes are harmless to humans and play a beneficial role in controlling populations of pests such as rodents. They are generally docile and will often flee if confronted by humans. It is important to respect their space and avoid unnecessary handling to reduce stress for the snake and minimize the risk of bites.
Bullsnake
Identifying Characteristics
The Bullsnake, also known as the Gopher Snake, is a non-venomous snake commonly found in Missouri. It is a large snake, capable of reaching lengths of up to six feet. The snake has a thick body and keeled scales, which give it a rough appearance. It has a distinct pattern characterized by dark blotches against a lighter background. The coloration of the blotches and background can vary greatly, giving the snake a camouflage advantage.
Habitat Preferences
Bullsnakes inhabit a variety of habitats, including grasslands, prairies, farmland, and woodland edges. They prefer open areas with abundant prey, such as rodents. They are often seen basking in the sun, taking advantage of their surroundings to regulate their body temperature.
Range Maps
The Bullsnake is found throughout Missouri and has a wide distribution across North America. It is one of the largest and most widely distributed snakes in the United States.
Feeding Behavior
Bullsnakes are powerful constrictors and primarily feed on small mammals, such as rats, mice, and ground squirrels. They are opportunistic hunters and will also consume birds, bird eggs, reptiles, and amphibians when given the opportunity. They use their excellent sense of smell and keen eyesight to locate and capture their prey.
Venomous or Nonvenomous
The Bullsnake is a non-venomous snake. While it may bite if threatened or handled, its bite poses no significant threat to humans. If bitten, it is important to clean the wound thoroughly and seek medical attention if necessary.
Potential Threats to Humans
Bullsnakes are generally harmless to humans and play a beneficial role in controlling populations of pests such as rodents. They are often mistaken for rattlesnakes due to their size and defensive behaviors, which include hissing, vibrating their tails, and even mock striking. It is important to distinguish between the two species and avoid unnecessary handling to reduce stress for the snake and minimize the risk of bites.
Eastern Hog-nosed Snake
Identifying Characteristics
The Eastern Hog-nosed Snake is a non-venomous snake commonly found in Missouri. It is a medium-sized snake, typically reaching lengths of up to three feet. The snake has a distinct upturned snout, which it uses to dig in the soil. It has a variable color pattern, but it often has a plain or blotched appearance with shades of brown, gray, or black.
Habitat Preferences
Eastern Hog-nosed Snakes can be found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, meadows, sandy areas, and woodland edges. They are often seen in areas with loose soil, where they can bury themselves to hide from predators or search for prey. They are primarily active during the day and are often seen basking in the sun.
Range Maps
The Eastern Hog-nosed Snake is found throughout Missouri and has a wide distribution across eastern and central North America. It is one of the most commonly encountered snakes in the eastern United States.
Feeding Behavior
Eastern Hog-nosed Snakes primarily feed on toads, which make up a significant portion of their diet. They are resistant to the toad’s toxic skin secretions and have developed adaptations to defend themselves against potential harm. The snake will sometimes play dead or perform “death feigning” behavior when threatened.
Venomous or Nonvenomous
The Eastern Hog-nosed Snake is a non-venomous snake. While it may bite if threatened or handled, its bite poses no significant threat to humans. If bitten, it is important to clean the wound thoroughly and seek medical attention if necessary.
Potential Threats to Humans
Eastern Hog-nosed Snakes are harmless to humans and play a beneficial role in controlling populations of pests such as toads and small rodents. They are known for their defensive behaviors, including hissing, flattening their necks, and even playing dead. It is important to respect their space and avoid unnecessary handling to reduce stress for the snake and minimize the risk of bites.
Additional Resources
- Missouri Department of Conservation: Missouri Snakes
- University of Missouri Extension: Common Snakes of Missouri