Snakes in Indiana: Hoosier Spotlight Serpents
Hey there, fellow Hoosiers! You may not know this, but Indiana is home to its own slithering population. That’s right, we’ve got a fair share of snakes here in the state, and today’s post will introduce you to our fascinating legless friends.
With 32 different species of snakes residing within our borders, Indiana’s got quite a diverse collection. From the venomous timber rattlesnake to the harmless garter snake, we’ll learn about some of these reptiles that call our state home.
So, put on your bravest Indiana Jones-style hat and join us as we uncover some of the captivating, and perhaps unexpected, serpentine citizens of our state. Don’t worry, we promise it’s not as scary as it may seem!
# | Name | Details | Image |
1 | Black Kingsnake (Lampropeltis nigra) |
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2 | Blue Racer (Coluber constrictor foxii) |
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3 | Bullsnake (Pituophis catenifer sayi) |
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4 | Butler’s Gartersnake (Thamnophis butleri) |
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5 | Common Worm Snake (Carphophis amoenus) |
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6 | Copperbelly Water Snake (Nerodia erythrogaster neglecta) |
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7 | Cottonmouth (Agkistrodon piscivorus) |
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8 | Dekay’s Brownsnake (Storeria dekayi) |
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9 | Diamond-backed Water Snake (Nerodia rhombifer) |
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10 | Eastern Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix) |
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11 | Eastern Fox Snake (Pantherophis gloydi) |
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12 | Eastern Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis sirtalis) |
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13 | Eastern Hog-nosed Snake (Heterodon platirhinos) |
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14 | Eastern Massasauga (Sistrurus catenatus) |
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15 | Eastern Milksnake (Lampropeltis triangulum) |
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16 | Eastern Ribbon Snake (Thamnophis sauritus sauritus) |
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17 | Gray Rat Snake (Pantherophis spiloides) |
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18 | Kirtland’s Snake (Clonophis kirtlandii) |
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19 | Northern Water Snake (Nerodia sipedon) |
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20 | Plains Garter Snake (Thamnophis radix) |
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21 | Prairie Kingsnake (Lampropeltis calligaster) |
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22 | Queen Snake (Regina septemvittata) |
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23 | Red-bellied Mud Snake (Farancia abacura) |
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24 | Red-Bellied Snake (Storeria occipitomaculata) |
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25 | Ringneck Snake (Diadophis punctatus) |
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26 | Rough Green Snake (Opheodrys aestivus) |
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27 | Scarlet Snake (Cemophora coccinea) |
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28 | Smooth Earth Snake (Virginia valeriae) |
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29 | Smooth Green Snake (Opheodrys vernalis) |
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30 | Southeastern Crowned Snake (Tantilla coronata) |
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31 | Timber Rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus) |
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32 | Western Ribbonsnake (Thamnophis proximus) |
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32 Snakes You Can Find in Indiana
In the state of Indiana, a fascinating array of serpents can be found slithering through its diverse landscapes. From venomous to harmless, each species has its unique story to tell. Below, we’ll explore the wonders of these often misunderstood creatures of Indiana, from their natural habitats and behaviors to the challenges they face in our changing world.
1. Black Kingsnake
- Scientific Name: Lampropeltis nigra
- Common Name: Black kingsnake
- Size: Up to 4 feet (1.2 meters)
- Natural Habitat: Woodlands, forests, and grasslands
- Color: Solid black with white speckles
- Habitat: Woodlands, forests, and grasslands
- Maximum Size: Up to 4 feet (1.2 meters)
- Diet: Mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and birds
- Reproduction: Lay eggs in clutches of 5-20
- Venom: Non-venomous
- Conservation: Least concern
The Black Kingsnake (Lampropeltis nigra) is a non-venomous snake that can grow up to 4 feet (1.2 meters) long, featuring a solid black color with white speckles. Commonly found in woodlands, forests, and grasslands of Indiana, these nocturnal and terrestrial creatures have a diverse diet including mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and birds. They reproduce by laying eggs in clutches of 5-20. Currently, their conservation status is listed as least concern, indicating a stable population in the wild.
2. Blue Racer
- Scientific Name: Coluber constrictor foxii
- Common Name: Blue racer
- Size: Up to 5 feet (1.5 meters)
- Natural Habitat: Grassy or open habitats, including meadows, brushy areas, and woodland edges
- Color: Blue or greenish-blue
- Habitat: Grassy or open habitats, including meadows, brushy areas, and woodland edges
- Maximum Size: Up to 5 feet (1.5 meters)
- Diet: Rodents, birds, insects, and other small animals
- Reproduction: Lay eggs in clutches of 8-29
- Venom: Non-venomous
- Conservation: Least concern
The Blue Racer (Coluber constrictor foxii), also known as the Eastern Racer, is a non-venomous snake found in grassy or open habitats, including meadows, brushy areas, and woodland edges. Measuring up to 5 feet (1.5 meters), it has a blue or greenish-blue coloration. Active during the day, the Blue Racer preys on rodents, birds, insects, and other small animals that are commonly found in Indiana. They reproduce by laying eggs in clutches of 8-29. The conservation status of this species is currently classified as “Least Concern.”
3. Bullsnake
- Scientific Name: Pituophis catenifer sayi
- Common Name: Bull snake
- Size: 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters)
- Natural Habitat: Grasslands, deserts, woodlands, and agricultural areas
- Color: Brown or yellowish with dark blotches
- Habitat: Grasslands, deserts, woodlands, and agricultural areas
- Maximum Size: 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters)
- Diet: Rodents, rabbits, ground-nesting birds, and eggs
- Reproduction: Lay eggs in clutches of 5-22
- Venom: Non-venomous
- Conservation: Least concern
The Bullsnake (Pituophis catenifer sayi), a non-venomous constrictor, measures 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters) and exhibits a brown or yellowish color with dark blotches. Found in grasslands, deserts, woodlands, and agricultural areas, these diurnal and terrestrial snakes primarily feed on rodents, rabbits, ground-nesting birds, and eggs. During the reproduction, the female Bullsnake lays egg clutches ranging from 5-22. With a conservation status listed as “Least Concern”, the Bullsnake is not currently under threat in Indiana.
4. Butler’s Gartersnake
- Scientific Name: Thamnophis butleri
- Common Name: Butler’s gartersnake
- Size: Up to 27 inches (68.5 cm)
- Natural Habitat: Grasslands, marshes, and meadows
- Color: Black or brown with yellow or orange stripes
- Habitat: Grasslands, marshes, and meadows
- Maximum Size: Up to 27 inches (68.5 cm)
- Diet: Earthworms, slugs, and small amphibians
- Reproduction: Lay eggs in clutches of 4-12
- Venom: Non-venomous
- Conservation: Least concern
The Butler’s Gartersnake (Thamnophis butleri) is a non-venomous reptile that can grow up to 27 inches in length. Known for its black or brown coloration contrasted by yellow or orange stripes, this diurnal and terrestrial snake primarily inhabits grasslands, marshes, and meadows. Butler’s Gartersnake mainly feasts on earthworms, slugs, and small amphibians. Breeding season typically sees them laying egg clutches of 4-12. Currently, their conservation status is categorized as least concern.
5. Common Worm Snake
- Scientific Name: Carphophis amoenus
- Common Name: Common worm snake
- Size: Up to 13 inches (33 centimeters)
- Natural Habitat: Damp forested areas, meadows, and forest edges
- Color: Brown or black with a pinkish-orange belly
- Habitat: Damp forested areas, meadows, and forest edges
- Maximum Size: Up to 13 inches (33 centimeters)
- Diet: Earthworms, slugs, and insect larvae
- Reproduction: Lay eggs in clutches of 1-8
- Venom: Non-venomous
- Conservation: Least concern
The Common Worm Snake (Carphophis amoenus) is a small, non-venomous reptile, growing up to 13 inches in length. Its brown or black body is complemented by a pinkish-orange belly, making it easily identifiable. Found primarily in damp forested areas, meadows, and forest edges, these burrowers are mainly nocturnal creatures. Earthworms, slugs, and insect larvae comprise their diet. During reproduction, they lay egg clutches containing 1-8 eggs. Currently, their conservation status is classified as least concern.
6. Copperbelly Water Snake
- Scientific Name: Nerodia erythrogaster neglecta
- Common Name: Copperbelly water snake
- Size: Up to 4.5 feet (1.37 meters)
- Natural Habitat: Wetland habitats, such as marshes, swamps, and ponds
- Color: Copper-red or orange on the belly, dark brown or black on the back
- Habitat: Wetland habitats, such as marshes, swamps, and ponds
- Maximum Size: Up to 4.5 feet (1.37 meters)
- Diet: Fish and amphibians
- Reproduction: Lay eggs in clutches of 10-30
- Venom: Non-venomous
- Conservation: Threatened
Copperbelly Water Snake (Nerodia erythrogaster neglecta) is a non-venomous reptile that grows up to 4.5 feet (1.37 meters) long. Sporting a distinctive copper-red or orange belly and dark brown or black back, this semi-aquatic, nocturnal snake inhabits wetland areas, such as marshes, swamps, and ponds. It primarily feeds on fish and amphibians. Copperbelly Water Snakes reproduce by laying eggs in clutches of 10-30. Currently, their conservation status is considered threatened.
7. Cottonmouth
- Scientific Name: Agkistrodon piscivorus
- Common Name: Cottonmouth, water moccasin
- Size: 30-48 inches (76-122 cm)
- Natural Habitat: Swamps, marshes, rivers, and ponds
- Color: Olive, brown, or black with dark bands
- Habitat: Swamps, marshes, rivers, and ponds
- Maximum Size: 30-48 inches (76-122 cm)
- Diet: Fish, amphibians, rodents, birds, and other reptiles
- Reproduction: Give birth to live young (ovoviviparous), 1-16 offspring
- Venom: Venomous, hemotoxic venom
- Conservation: Least concern
The Cottonmouth (Agkistrodon piscivorus), also known as Water Moccasin, is a venomous snake measuring 30-48 inches (76-122 cm) in length. It features an olive, brown, or black coloration with dark bands. These semi-aquatic, nocturnal reptiles inhabit swamps, marshes, rivers, and ponds. Notably aggressive when threatened, their diet consists of fish, amphibians, rodents, birds, and other reptiles. Cottonmouths give birth to live young (ovoviviparous), producing 1-16 offspring. Their venom is hemotoxic, but their conservation status remains of least concern.
8. Dekay’s Brownsnake
- Scientific Name: Storeria dekayi
- Common Name: Dekay’s brown snake
- Size: 9-15 inches (23-38 cm)
- Natural Habitat: Forests, grasslands, wetlands, and urban areas
- Color: Brown or gray with dark spots
- Habitat: Forests, grasslands, wetlands, and urban areas
- Maximum Size: 9-15 inches (23-38 cm)
- Diet: Earthworms, slugs, and other soft-bodied invertebrates
- Reproduction: Give birth to live young (ovoviviparous), 3-40 offspring
- Venom: Non-venomous
- Conservation: Least concern
Storeria dekayi, commonly known as Dekay’s Brown Snake, is a small, non-venomous reptile, measuring 9-15 inches (23-38 cm) in length. Its brown or gray body features dark spots, and it inhabits forests, grasslands, wetlands, and urban areas. Exhibiting terrestrial, nocturnal, and secretive behavior, its diet consists primarily of earthworms, slugs, and other soft-bodied invertebrates. A fascinating ovoviviparous species, Dekayís Brown Snake gives birth to live young, bearing 3-40 offspring. Its current conservation status is classified as least concern.
9. Diamond-backed Water Snake
- Scientific Name: Nerodia rhombifer
- Common Name: Diamond-backed water snake
- Size: 30-48 inches (76-122 cm)
- Natural Habitat: Freshwater habitats, lakes, rivers, and swamps
- Color: Olive-green or brown with dark diamond patterns
- Habitat: Freshwater habitats, lakes, rivers, and swamps
- Maximum Size: 30-48 inches (76-122 cm)
- Diet: Fish, amphibians, and small reptiles
- Reproduction: Live birth, 13-60 young per litter
- Venom: Non-venomous
- Conservation: Least concern
The Diamond-backed Water Snake (Nerodia rhombifer) is a non-venomous reptile measuring 30-48 inches (76-122 cm) in length. Its olive-green or brown skin features dark diamond patterns, providing excellent camouflage in its freshwater habitat which includes lakes, rivers, and swamps. As a diurnal and nocturnal creature, this adept swimmer mainly feeds on fish, amphibians, and small reptiles. The species reproduces through live birth, with each litter consisting of 13-60 young. Currently, it holds a conservation status of Least Concern.
10. Eastern Copperhead
- Scientific Name: Agkistrodon contortrix
- Common Name: Eastern copperhead
- Size: Up to 3 feet (90 centimeters)
- Natural Habitat: Forests, swamps, and river bottoms
- Color: Reddish-brown with hourglass-shaped bands
- Habitat: Forests, swamps, and river bottoms
- Maximum Size: Up to 3 feet (90 centimeters)
- Diet: Small rodents, birds, frogs, and insects
- Reproduction: Live-bearing, 2-18 young per litter
- Venom: Venomous, hemotoxic venom
- Conservation: Least concern
The Eastern Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix) is a venomous snake that can grow up to 3 feet (90cm) in length. Its distinctive reddish-brown body features hourglass-shaped bands and prefers habitats such as forests, swamps, and river bottoms of Indiana. These nocturnal, terrestrial creatures primarily feed on small rodents, birds, frogs, and insects. Eastern Copperheads are live-bearing, with litters ranging from 2-18 young. Their hemotoxic venom can be dangerous, but their conservation status is considered least concern.
11. Eastern Fox Snake
- Scientific Name: Pantherophis gloydi
- Common Name: Eastern fox snake
- Size: Up to 5 feet (1.5 meters)
- Natural Habitat: Wetlands, meadows, and woodland edges
- Color: Yellowish or light brown with dark blotches
- Habitat: Wetlands, meadows, and woodland edges
- Maximum Size: Up to 5 feet (1.5 meters)
- Diet: Rodents, birds, and eggs
- Reproduction: Lay eggs in clutches of 8-27
- Venom: Non-venomous
- Conservation: Least concern
The Eastern Fox Snake (Pantherophis gloydi) is a non-venomous reptile, reaching up to 5 feet (1.5 meters) in length. It has a yellowish or light brown color, adorned with dark blotches. Commonly found in wetlands, meadows, and woodland edges, this nocturnal and terrestrial creature feeds primarily on rodents, birds, and eggs. During the reproduction process, Eastern Fox Snakes lay eggs in clutches of 8-27. Though marked as “least concern” in conservation status, their survival is vital to maintaining ecological balance.
12. Eastern Garter Snake
- Scientific Name: Thamnophis sirtalis sirtalis
- Common Name: Eastern garter snake
- Size: Up to 2-4.5 feet (0.6-1.4 meters)
- Natural Habitat: Forests, grasslands, wetlands, and urban areas
- Color: Brown, green or gray with three yellow stripes
- Habitat: Forests, grasslands, wetlands, and urban areas
- Maximum Size: Up to 2-4.5 feet (0.6-1.4 meters)
- Diet: Earthworms, amphibians, fish, and small mammals
- Reproduction: Lay eggs in clutches of 10-40
- Venom: Mildly venomous but harmless to humans
- Conservation: Least concern
The Eastern Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis sirtalis) is a commonly found snake species that can grow up to 2-4.5 feet (0.6-1.4 meters) in length. It displays a brown, green, or gray coloration adorned with three yellow stripes. Inhabitants of forests, grasslands, wetlands and urban areas, these diurnal and terrestrial reptiles primarily feed on earthworms, amphibians, fish, and small mammals. Eastern Garter Snakes reproduce by laying 10-40 eggs per clutch, and although they are mildly venomous, their venom poses little risk to humans. They are currently classified under the least concern category in conservation status.
13. Eastern Hog-nosed Snake
- Scientific Name: Heterodon platirhinos
- Common Name: Eastern hog-nosed snake
- Size: 20-33 inches (51-84 cm)
- Natural Habitat: Woodlands, grasslands, and sandy areas
- Color: Highly variable, typically brown or gray with dark blotches
- Habitat: Woodlands, grasslands, and sandy areas
- Maximum Size: 20-33 inches (51-84 cm)
- Diet: Mostly toads, but also other amphibians and small mammals
- Reproduction: Lay eggs, 4-60 per clutch
- Venom: Mild venom, harmless to humans
- Conservation: Least concern
The Eastern Hog-nosed Snake (Heterodon platirhinos) is a moderately-sized serpent, reaching lengths of 20-33 inches (51-84 cm). Its coloration is highly variable, typically exhibiting brown or gray hues with dark blotches. Inhabiting woodlands, grasslands, and sandy areas, this diurnal snake is known for playing dead when threatened. Its diet mainly consists of toads, along with other amphibians and small mammals. It reproduces by laying 4-60 eggs per clutch, has mild venom harmless to humans, and is classified as of “Least Concern” in conservation efforts.
14. Eastern Massasauga
- Scientific Name: Sistrurus catenatus
- Common Name: Eastern massasauga
- Size: 18-30 inches (45-76 cm)
- Natural Habitat: Wetlands, grasslands, and forests
- Color: Gray or light brown with dark brown blotches
- Habitat: Wetlands, grasslands, and forests
- Maximum Size: 18-30 inches (45-76 cm)
- Diet: Small mammals, amphibians, and occasionally birds
- Reproduction: Give live birth to 5-20 young
- Venom: Venomous, but rarely fatal
- Conservation: Threatened
The Eastern Massasauga (Sistrurus catenatus), a gray or light brown rattlesnake with dark brown blotches, measures 18-30 inches (45-76 cm) in length. Found in wetlands, grasslands, and forests, it is solitary and adapts its behavior with temperatureódiurnal during cooler months and crepuscular or nocturnal in warmer months. Its diet consists of small mammals, amphibians, and sometimes birds. The snake reproduces by giving live birth to 5-20 offspring. While venomous, its bite is rarely fatal. It is currently considered a threatened species.
15. Eastern Milksnake
- Scientific Name: Lampropeltis triangulum
- Common Name: Eastern milksnake
- Size: Up to 3.9 feet (1.2 meters)
- Natural Habitat: Forests, grasslands, farmlands, and rocky areas
- Color: Reddish-brown with y-shaped black-edged white bands
- Habitat: Forests, grasslands, farmlands, and rocky areas
- Maximum Size: Up to 3.9 feet (1.2 meters)
- Diet: Rodents, small birds, and reptiles
- Reproduction: Lay eggs in clutches of 3-20
- Venom: Non-venomous
- Conservation: Least concern
The Eastern Milksnake (Lampropeltis triangulum) is a non-venomous snake that grows up to 3.9 feet (1.2 meters) in length. It features a reddish-brown color adorned with Y-shaped black-edged white bands. Commonly found in forests, grasslands, farmlands, and rocky areas of Indiana, this nocturnal and terrestrial snake primarily consumes rodents, small birds, and reptiles. Eastern Milksnakes reproduce by laying egg clutches of 3-20. Currently, their conservation status is listed as least concern.
16. Eastern Ribbon Snake
- Scientific Name: Thamnophis sauritus sauritus
- Common Name: Eastern ribbon snake
- Size: 18-34 inches (45-86 cm)
- Natural Habitat: Wetlands, swamps, and marshes near water
- Color: Black, greenish, or brown with three distinct light stripes
- Habitat: Wetlands, swamps, and marshes near water
- Maximum Size: 18-34 inches (45-86 cm)
- Diet: Frogs, toads, small fish, and insects
- Reproduction: Lay 3-27 eggs, sometimes communal with other snakes
- Venom: Non-venomous
- Conservation: Least concern
The Eastern Ribbon Snake, scientifically known as Thamnophis sauritus sauritus, is a non-venomous reptile measuring 18-34 inches (45-86 cm). It inhabits wetlands, swamps, and marshes near water and features a distinctive black, greenish, or brown color with three light stripes. Known for their daytime activity and skittish behavior, these snakes are excellent swimmers with a diet comprising frogs, toads, small fish, and insects. They reproduce by laying 3-27 eggs, sometimes communally with other snakes. Their conservation status is of least concern.
17. Gray Rat Snake
- Scientific Name: Pantherophis spiloides
- Common Name: Gray rat snake
- Size: Up to 6 feet (1.8 meters)
- Natural Habitat: Forests, grasslands, and wetlands
- Color: Gray with dark brown or black blotches
- Habitat: Forests, grasslands, and wetlands
- Maximum Size: Up to 6 feet (1.8 meters)
- Diet: Rodents, birds, and eggs
- Reproduction: Lay eggs in clutches of 6-25
- Venom: Non-venomous
- Conservation: Least concern
The Gray Rat Snake (Pantherophis spiloides) is a non-venomous species that can grow up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) in length. These snakes are characterized by a grayish color and dark brown or black blotches scattered across their body. Their natural habitats include forests, grasslands, and wetlands, where they adopt a nocturnal, semi-arboreal lifestyle. The Gray Rat Snake primarily feeds on rodents, birds, and eggs, and reproduces by laying clutches of 6-25 eggs. Its conservation status is currently listed as least concern.
18. Kirtland’s Snake
- Scientific Name: Clonophis kirtlandii
- Common Name: Kirtland’s snake
- Size: Up to 24 inches (60 centimeters)
- Natural Habitat: Wet meadows, prairies, marshes, and woodland edges
- Color: Gray or brown with red or orange belly and black spots
- Habitat: Wet meadows, prairies, marshes, and woodland edges
- Maximum Size: Up to 24 inches (60 centimeters)
- Diet: Earthworms, slugs, and snails
- Reproduction: Oviparous, laying clutches of about 3-11 eggs in late spring or early summer
- Venom: Non-venomous
- Conservation: Near threatened
Kirtland’s Snake (Clonophis kirtlandii) is a non-venomous reptile that grows up to 24 inches in length. It has a gray or brown coloration with a red or orange belly adorned with black spots. This secretive, burrowing snake thrives in habitats such as wet meadows, prairies, marshes, and woodland edges. Primarily feeding on earthworms, slugs, and snails, Kirtland’s Snake is oviparous, laying clutches of 3-11 eggs during late spring or early summer. Currently, it holds a “near threatened” conservation status.
19. Northern Water Snake
- Scientific Name: Nerodia sipedon
- Common Name: Northern water snake
- Size: Up to 4.5 feet (1.4 meters)
- Natural Habitat: Aquatic habitats, such as rivers, lakes, ponds, and marshes
- Color: Brown or gray with dark bands or blotches
- Habitat: Aquatic habitats, such as rivers, lakes, ponds, and marshes
- Maximum Size: Up to 4.5 feet (1.4 meters)
- Diet: Fish, amphibians, and invertebrates
- Reproduction: Lay eggs in clutches of 10-30
- Venom: Non-venomous
- Conservation: Least concern
The Northern Water Snake (Nerodia sipedon) is a non-venomous reptile that can grow up to 4.5 feet (1.4 meters) in length. It is characterized by its brown or gray color with dark bands or blotches. This nocturnal and semi-aquatic species can be found in a variety of aquatic habitats, including rivers, lakes, ponds, and marshes. Its diet consists of fish, amphibians, and invertebrates. Northern Water Snakes reproduce by laying eggs in clutches of 10-30, and currently have a conservation status of least concern.
20. Plains Garter Snake
- Scientific Name: Thamnophis radix
- Common Name: Plains garter snake
- Size: 16-28 inches (41-71 cm)
- Natural Habitat: Grasslands, wetlands, and areas near water sources
- Color: Brown or gray with yellow or orange stripes
- Habitat: Grasslands, wetlands, and areas near water sources
- Maximum Size: 16-28 inches (41-71 cm)
- Diet: Earthworms, amphibians, fish, and invertebrates
- Reproduction: Live-bearing; 6-80 offspring per litter
- Venom: Non-venomous
- Conservation: Least concern
The Plains Garter Snake (Thamnophis radix) is a non-venomous reptile characterized by its brown or gray color with yellow or orange stripes. Typically measuring 16-28 inches (41-71 cm) in length, it thrives in grasslands, wetlands, and areas near water sources. These diurnal, semi-aquatic snakes are known for their swimming prowess. They feed primarily on earthworms, amphibians, fish, and invertebrates. Mating results in live births, producing 6-80 offspring per litter. Currently, their conservation status is of least concern.
21. Prairie Kingsnake
- Scientific Name: Lampropeltis calligaster
- Common Name: Prairie kingsnake
- Size: 30-42 inches (76-107 cm)
- Natural Habitat: Grasslands, farmlands, and woodlands
- Color: Gray or light brown with dark blotches
- Habitat: Grasslands, farmlands, and woodlands
- Maximum Size: 30-42 inches (76-107 cm)
- Diet: Rodents, birds, lizards, and amphibians
- Reproduction: Lay eggs in clutches of 5-17
- Venom: Non-venomous
- Conservation: Least concern
The Prairie Kingsnake (Lampropeltis calligaster) is a non-venomous reptile that measures 30-42 inches (76-107cm) in length. It has a gray or light brown color, adorned with dark blotches. Commonly found in grasslands, farmlands, and woodlands, Prairie Kingsnakes are terrestrial and nocturnal by nature. Their diet includes rodents, birds, lizards, and amphibians. During reproduction, they lay clutches containing 5-17 eggs. Currently, the Prairie Kingsnake’s conservation status is listed as least concern.
22. Queen Snake
- Scientific Name: Regina septemvittata
- Common Name: Queen snake
- Size: Up to 3 feet (0.9 meters)
- Natural Habitat: Streams, creeks, and other aquatic environments
- Color: Olive, brown or gray with three stripes and cream or yellowish belly
- Habitat: Streams, creeks, and other aquatic environments
- Maximum Size: Up to 3 feet (0.9 meters)
- Diet: Crayfish and other small aquatic invertebrates
- Reproduction: Lay eggs in clutches of 4-14
- Venom: Non-venomous
- Conservation: Least concern
The Queen Snake (Regina septemvittata) is a non-venomous reptile growing up to 3 feet (0.9 meters) in length. Often sporting olive, brown, or gray coloration, this snake displays three distinctive stripes and a yellowish belly. It thrives in aquatic habitats such as streams and creeks, and is highly active during the day. Queen Snakes primarily feed on crayfish and other small aquatic invertebrates. They lay eggs in clutches of 4-14, and currently face no significant conservation threats.
23. Red-bellied Mud Snake
- Scientific Name: Farancia abacura
- Common Name: Red-bellied mud snake
- Size: Up to 40 inches (102 cm)
- Natural Habitat: Swamps, bogs, and slow-moving bodies of water
- Color: Black with red or pink belly
- Habitat: Swamps, bogs, and slow-moving bodies of water
- Maximum Size: Up to 40 inches (102 cm)
- Diet: Amphibians, especially salamanders
- Reproduction: Oviparous, 4-14 eggs per clutch
- Venom: Non-venomous
- Conservation: Least concern
The Red-bellied Mud Snake (Farancia abacura) is a semi-aquatic, non-venomous reptile that can grow up to 40 inches (102 cm) long. These snakes are characterized by their striking black coloration and vibrant red or pink belly. Typically found in swamps, bogs, and slow-moving bodies of water, they are nocturnal and skilled swimmers with a diet primarily consisting of amphibians, especially salamanders. Red-bellied Mud Snakes are oviparous, producing 4-14 eggs per clutch. Currently, their conservation status is listed as least concern.
24. Red-Bellied Snake
- Scientific Name: Storeria occipitomaculata
- Common Name: Red-bellied snake
- Size: 8-16 inches (20-41 cm)
- Natural Habitat: Forests, woodlands, and wetlands
- Color: Gray or brown with a red or orange belly
- Habitat: Forests, woodlands, and wetlands
- Maximum Size: 8-16 inches (20-41 cm)
- Diet: Slugs, snails, and earthworms
- Reproduction: Live-bearing; 4-21 offspring per litter
- Venom: Non-venomous
- Conservation: Least concern
The Red-Bellied Snake (Storeria occipitomaculata) is a small, non-venomous snake measuring 8-16 inches (20-41 cm) in length. They are gray or brown with a distinctive red or orange belly. Mostly found in forests, woodlands, and wetlands of Indiana, these nocturnal and secretive creatures primarily feed on slugs, snails, and earthworms. As live-bearing reptiles, they produce 4-21 offspring in each litter. With a conservation status of “Least Concern,” this terrestrial snake presents no significant threat to humans.
25. Ringneck Snake
- Scientific Name: Diadophis punctatus
- Common Name: Ringneck snake
- Size: 12-15 inches (30-38 centimeters)
- Natural Habitat: Forests, grasslands, and urban areas
- Color: Gray or dark brown with yellow or orange ring around the neck
- Habitat: Forests, grasslands, and urban areas
- Maximum Size: 12-15 inches (30-38 centimeters)
- Diet: Small invertebrates such as insects, worms, and slugs
- Reproduction: Lay eggs in clutches of 3-10
- Venom: Mildly venomous, but not harmful to humans
- Conservation: Least concern
The Ringneck Snake (Diadophis punctatus) is a small, mildly venomous serpent, measuring 12-15 inches (30-38 centimeters) in length. Exhibiting a gray or dark brown coloration with a distinct yellow or orange ring around its neck, this species prefers habitats including forests, grasslands, and urban areas. As nocturnal, secretive creatures, Ringneck Snakes are found hiding under rocks or logs, feeding on small invertebrates such as insects, worms, and slugs. Reproducing by laying 3-10 eggs per clutch, this snake is presently classified as least concern in terms of conservation status.
26. Rough Green Snake
- Scientific Name: Opheodrys aestivus
- Common Name: Rough green snake
- Size: 22-32 inches (56-81 cm)
- Natural Habitat: Forests, grasslands, and areas near water sources
- Color: Bright green with a lighter belly
- Habitat: Forests, grasslands, and areas near water sources
- Maximum Size: 22-32 inches (56-81 cm)
- Diet: Insects and spiders
- Reproduction: Lay eggs in clutches of 3-12
- Venom: Non-venomous
- Conservation: Least concern
The Rough Green Snake (Opheodrys aestivus) is a vibrant, non-venomous reptile that measures between 22-32 inches (56-81 cm) in length. Its dazzling bright green coloration is accentuated by a lighter belly, making it well-camouflaged in its preferred habitats of forests, grasslands, and areas near water sources. Known for their diurnal, arboreal behavior, these skillful climbers of Indiana primarily consume insects and spiders. Rough Green Snakes reproduce by laying clutches of 3-12 eggs, and their conservation status is currently classified as least concern.
27. Scarlet Snake
- Scientific Name: Cemophora coccinea
- Common Name: Scarlet snake
- Size: Up to 20-30 inches (50-76 cm)
- Natural Habitat: Forests, grasslands, and suburban areas
- Color: Red or orangish with black bands and a white or yellowish underbelly
- Habitat: Forests, grasslands, and suburban areas
- Maximum Size: Up to 20-30 inches (50-76 cm)
- Diet: Reptile eggs, small rodents, and lizards
- Reproduction: Lays eggs in clutches of 3-8
- Venom: Non-venomous
- Conservation: Least concern
The Scarlet Snake (Cemophora coccinea) is a non-venomous, nocturnal reptile found in forests, grasslands, and suburban areas. Measuring up to 20-30 inches (50-76 cm) in length, it features striking red or orangish scales with black bands and a white or yellowish underbelly. This burrowing snake has a diet consisting of reptile eggs, small rodents, and lizards. Females lay eggs in clutches of 3-8. With a conservation status of least concern, the Scarlet Snake continues to thrive in its habitats.
28. Smooth Earth Snake
- Scientific Name: Virginia valeriae
- Common Name: Smooth earth snake
- Size: 7-10 inches (18-25 cm)
- Natural Habitat: Forests, woodlands, and grasslands
- Color: Brown or gray with a lighter belly
- Habitat: Forests, woodlands, and grasslands
- Maximum Size: 7-10 inches (18-25 cm)
- Diet: Earthworms, slugs, and insects
- Reproduction: Live-bearing; 3-10 offspring per litter
- Venom: Non-venomous
- Conservation: Least concern
The Smooth Earth Snake (Virginia valeriae) is a small, non-venomous reptile measuring 7-10 inches (18-25 cm) in length. It has a brown or gray coloration, with a lighter belly, and inhabits forests, woodlands, and grasslands. This secretive, nocturnal snake is known for burrow-dwelling and primarily feasts on earthworms, slugs, and insects. The species is live-bearing, producing 3-10 offspring per litter. With a conservation status of “Least Concern,” the Smooth Earth Snake population remains relatively stable.
29. Smooth Green Snake
- Scientific Name: Opheodrys vernalis
- Common Name: Smooth green snake
- Size: 14-20 inches (36-51 cm)
- Natural Habitat: Grasslands, meadows, and open woodlands
- Color: Bright green with a lighter belly
- Habitat: Grasslands, meadows, and open woodlands
- Maximum Size: 14-20 inches (36-51 cm)
- Diet: Insects and spiders
- Reproduction: Lay eggs in clutches of 3-12
- Venom: Non-venomous
- Conservation: Least concern
The Smooth Green Snake (Opheodrys vernalis) measures 14-20 inches (36-51 cm) and is characterized by its vibrant green color and lighter belly. Commonly found in grasslands, meadows, and open woodlands, this diurnal and terrestrial reptile is an adept climber. Its diet mainly consists of insects and spiders. In terms of reproduction, they lay eggs in clutches of 3-12. Though non-venomous, these snakes should be admired from afar. Fortunately, their conservation status is currently listed as ‘Least Concern.’
30. Southeastern Crowned Snake
- Scientific Name: Tantilla coronata
- Common Name: Southeastern crowned snake
- Size: Up to 10 inches (25 centimeters)
- Natural Habitat: Wooded areas, under rocks, logs, or leaf litter
- Color: Blackish-brown with a yellowish-white collar
- Habitat: Wooded areas, under rocks, logs, or leaf litter
- Maximum Size: Up to 10 inches (25 centimeters)
- Diet: Centipedes, beetle larvae, and small insects
- Reproduction: Lay eggs in clutches of 2-4
- Venom: Non-venomous
- Conservation: Least concern
The Southeastern Crowned Snake (Tantilla coronata) is a small, non-venomous serpent, which measures up to 10 inches (25 cm) in length. Sporting a blackish-brown body with a distinct yellowish-white collar, these reptiles inhabit wooded areas, hiding beneath rocks, logs, and leaf litter. Characterized by their nocturnal and secretive behavior, they primarily feed on centipedes, beetle larvae, and small insects. Southeastern Crowned Snakes reproduce by laying clutches of 2-4 eggs, and their conservation status is marked as Least Concern.
31. Timber Rattlesnake
- Scientific Name: Crotalus horridus
- Common Name: Timber rattlesnake
- Size: Up to 6 feet (1.8 meters)
- Natural Habitat: Forests, mixed woodlands, and rocky hillsides
- Color: Yellow, brown, gray, or black with dark bands
- Habitat: Forests, mixed woodlands, and rocky hillsides
- Maximum Size: Up to 6 feet (1.8 meters)
- Diet: Rodents, birds, and small mammals
- Reproduction: Viviparous, giving birth to 4-14 live young
- Venom: Hemotoxic venom
- Conservation: Least concern
The Timber Rattlesnake, scientifically known as Crotalus horridus, is a solitary, ambush predator that can grow up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) in length. It comes in various colors, including yellow, brown, gray, or black with dark bands, and inhabits forests, mixed woodlands, and rocky hillsides. Its diet consists of rodents, birds, and small mammals. Unlike most snakes, the Timber Rattlesnake is viviparous, giving birth to 4-14 live young. It possesses hemotoxic venom, and its conservation status is currently listed as least concern.
32. Western Ribbonsnake
- Scientific Name: Thamnophis proximus
- Common Name: Western ribbonsnake
- Size: 18-30 inches (46-76 cm)
- Natural Habitat: Semi-aquatic habitats, wetlands, marshes, and grasslands near water
- Color: Black or dark brown with three bright yellow or white stripes
- Habitat: Semi-aquatic habitats, wetlands, marshes, and grasslands near water
- Maximum Size: 18-30 inches (46-76 cm)
- Diet: Fish, frogs, and tadpoles
- Reproduction: Lay eggs in clutches of 3-26
- Venom: Non-venomous
- Conservation: Least concern
The Western Ribbonsnake (Thamnophis proximus) is a slender reptile measuring 18-30 inches (46-76 cm) in length, characterized by its black or dark brown coloration adorned with three bright yellow or white stripes. Commonly found in semi-aquatic habitats such as wetlands, marshes, and grasslands near water, this diurnal creature is a swift swimmer, preying primarily on fish, frogs, and tadpoles. The non-venomous species reproduces by laying egg clutches of 3-26, and has a conservation status of ‘Least Concern’.
Nearby States:
Final Words
All the 32 snakes have truly opened our eyes to the fascinating world of snakes found in Indiana. Who knew there were so many different types of these slithering reptiles, each with their own unique characteristics and habitats?
Not only did we get a chance to learn about some of the more common and well-known species, but we also delved into the lesser-known and often misunderstood ones.
So, the next time you’re out and about in Indiana, keep an eye out for these incredible creatures, and let’s continue to appreciate and protect the diverse wildlife that makes our world so interesting!
Are the Snakes Found in Oklahoma Similar to Those in Indiana?
While both Oklahoma and Indiana have a variety of snake species, the specific types can differ due to regional habitats. The sooner state native snakes of oklahoma include species like the Western Rat Snake and Eastern Copperhead, while Indiana shares some similarities but also has species unique to its local environment.
What Types of Snakes Can Be Found in Indiana?
In Indiana, various types of snakes can be found, including the common garter snake, the eastern milk snake, and the northern water snake. Some more elusive species, such as the timber rattlesnake and the massasauga, also inhabit certain areas of the state. For more information, read the nebraska cornhusker snake fascination article.