Snakes in Central Louisiana

Louisiana is home to 46 different native snake species, 27 of which are in the central region of the state. The various species vary widely in size, from a few inches to several feet. Several of the species found in the central region of the state possess potentially deadly venom and are therefore considered dangerous to humans.

  1. Large Snakes

    • Central Louisiana is home to 10 large snake species that grow to more than 4 feet in length, on average. The largest species in the area is the coachwhip snake, which grows to more than 7 feet. The western rat snake and mud snake are both slightly smaller and grow to almost 7 feet in length.The diamondback water snake, racer and speckled king snake all grow to more than 5 feet. The other four large species in the area -- the Mississippi green water snake, prairie king snake, Slowinski's corn snake and yellow-bellied water snake -- grow to more than 4 feet.

    Medium-sized Snakes

    • The area has eight snake species that grow to between 2 and 4 feet in length. Six of the species grow to less than 4 feet: the banded water snake, common garter snake, eastern hog-nose, grahams crayfish snake, rough green snake and western ribbon snake. The other two medium-sized species in the area grow to just under 3 feet in length, on average: the glossy crayfish snake and the milk snake.

    Small Snakes

    • Most of the region's snake species are medium to large in size, with only four measuring less than 2 feet in length. The smallest species in the area is the rough earth snake, which grows to between 6 and 12 inches. The red-bellied snake grows a little larger, to between 6 and 14 inches. Both the ring-necked and brown snake species grow to an average of 16 inches in length.

    Venomous Snakes

    • Central Louisiana's warm, moist climate and varied habitats create cozy conditions for five venomous snake species. The largest species is the canebrake, or timber rattlesnake, which grows to between 25 and 70 inches in length. The closely related copperhead and cottonmouth snakes are both found in central Louisiana, often in wetland habitats. The Texas coral snake is found in parts of the region and has a potent venom. The area's smallest venomous species is the pygmy rattlesnake, which grows to around 10 to 20 inches, on average. The bites of all five species can be potentially deadly if not treated.