How to Identify a Baby Snake

The intricate patterns on many snakes make it difficult to tell them apart. Most don't reach maturity until 2 to 4 years old. The vast majority are harmless, and all want to be left alone. Remember that some harmless snakes can resemble venomous snakes. Only four species of North American snakes are venomous. Since patterns are confusing, admire the snake from a distance without harming it. You can identify a baby snake on eNature.com. This website features pictures of snakes in all regions. By narrowing down the possibilities according to your specifications, it shows you only the snakes where you live.

Instructions

    • 1

      Go to eNature.com (see Resources below). On the gray line at the top, open the box that reads "I want to" and select "Identify an animal or plant I just saw." Click on "Go."

    • 2

      Click on "Species Group." Select "Reptiles and Amphibians." Under Type, click on "Snakes."

    • 3

      Click on the boxes beside all the colors that appear on the snake you saw in the Colors section. You can choose as many colors as you need to.

    • 4

      Click on the length you estimate the snake to be in the Size section. Choices are "under 4 inches," "4 to 12 inches," "1 to 3 feet" or "larger."

    • 5

      Choose the appropriate habitat for your snake from a variety that includes "freshwater swamp," "rivers and streams," "forests and woodlands," and more.

    • 6

      Select parts of North America where you found your snake in the Region section.

    • 7

      Compare your snake to the options on the screen to identify your snake.