What Is the Natural Habitat of a Snake?

Snakes are very adaptable creatures and are able to survive in all but the coldest habitats of the world. Their habitat types are varied and suited to the snake species present. Habitat conditions vary from the harsh desert environment to the aquatic life in the ocean.

  1. Wetland Habitat

    • Snakes are likely to be found in and around bodies of water. The reptiles in this habitat will feed on the fish, frogs and other amphibians found in the wetlands. Water snakes (Nerodia sp.) and mud snakes (Farancia abacura) are typically found in wetlands.

    Grassland Habitat

    • Snakes are found in grassland habitats. This habitat, with its vegetation, attracts rodents and insects, which the snakes prey upon. The high grass also provides protective cover for the snakes. Garter snakes (Thamnophis sp.), brown snakes (Storeria) and ring-necked snakes (Diadophis punctatus) are typical residents of grasslands.

    Desert Habitat

    • Some snakes are well adapted to a desert environment, with hot days and cold nights. Reptiles can survive well at these extremes in temperature because they are cold blooded, and do not expend energy to heat and cool their bodies. Rattlesnakes (Crotalus sp.) and desert king snakes (Lampropeltis g. splendida) are examples of desert-dwelling snakes.

    Forest Habitat

    • Deciduous forests are also important habitats for reptiles. Marietta.edu reports that Ohio deciduous forests have moderate temperatures between 32 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit, and a rainfall of 20 to 80 inches per year. Rat snakes (Elaphe sp.) are found in the forests and are accomplished tree climbers. Pine snakes (Pituophis melanoleucus) and eastern king snakes (Lampropeltis g. getula) are also found in a forest habitat.

    Ocean Habitat

    • Snakes also reside in or near the ocean and are at home in a marine environment. An extreme example is the pelagic sea snake, Pelamus platurus, which never leaves the ocean, feeding on fish that it captures with its powerful venom.