Snakes in Maryland: Old Line State Slitherers

Hey there, fellow snake enthusiasts! Have you ever wondered just how many slithering critters call the Old Line State home? Well, it turns out that Maryland has quite the variety of these incredible reptiles – 27 species to be exact!

From completely harmless garden buddies to venomous forest dwellers, Maryland has something for every snake lover. So get your hiking boots and camera ready because we’re about to dive into the fascinating world of Maryland snakes! Maryland is home to 27 different species of snakes, ranging from the colorful and non-venomous Eastern Milk Snake to the sleek and deadly Copperhead. If you’re interested in keeping a snake as a pet, it’s important to familiarize yourself with Maryland’s pet snake policies. Certain species may require a permit or have restrictions on ownership, so be sure to do your research before bringing home a slithery companion.

But don’t worry, we’re here to help you tell the difference between potentially dangerous pit-vipers and charming little garter snakes. Read on to discover more about these amazing species.

#	Name	Details	Image
1	Coastal Plain Milksnake (Lampropeltis calligaster rhombo.maculata)	Size: Up to 2-2.5 feet (61-76 cm) Color: Red or orange with black bands and a v-shaped marking on head Habitat: Coastal plain, marshes, flatwoods, and upland forests Behaviour: Nocturnal and somewhat secretive
2	Common Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis)	Size: Up to 3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters) Color: Green or brown with three yellow stripes Habitat: Wet and moist habitats, including marshes, fields, and forests Behaviour: Diurnal, active, hibernates in winter
3	Common Water Snake (Nerodia sipedon)	Size: Up to 4.5 feet (1.4 meters) Color: Brown or gray with dark bands or blotches Habitat: Aquatic habitats, including lakes, rivers, and ponds Behaviour: Nocturnal and semiaquatic
4	Common Worm Snake (Carphophis amoenus)	Size: Up to 13 inches (33 centimeters) Color: Brown or black with a pinkish-orange belly Habitat: Damp forested areas, meadows, and forest edges Behaviour: Burrower, primarily nocturnal
5	Corn Snake (Pantherophis guttatus)	Size: 24-72 inches (61-183 cm) Color: Orange or brownish-yellow with red or brown blotches Habitat: Woodlands, grasslands, and abandoned buildings Behaviour: Nocturnal and terrestrial
6	Dekay’s Brownsnake (Storeria dekayi)	Size: 9-15 inches (23-38 cm) Color: Brown or gray with dark spots Habitat: Forests, grasslands, wetlands, and urban areas Behaviour: Terrestrial, nocturnal, and secretive
7	Eastern Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix)	Size: Up to 3 feet (90 centimeters) Color: Reddish-brown with hourglass-shaped bands Habitat: Forests, swamps, and river bottoms Behaviour: Nocturnal and terrestrial
8	Eastern Hog-nosed Snake (Heterodon platirhinos)	Size: 20-33 inches (51-84 cm) Color: Highly variable, typically brown or gray with dark blotches Habitat: Woodlands, grasslands, and sandy areas Behaviour: Diurnal, known for playing dead when threatened
9	Eastern Kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula)	Size: Up to 4 feet (1.2 meters) Color: Black or dark brown with white or yellow bands Habitat: Forests, wetlands, grasslands, and suburban areas Behaviour: Diurnal and terrestrial
10	Eastern Milksnake (Lampropeltis triangulum)	Size: Up to 3.9 feet (1.2 meters) Color: Reddish-brown with Y-shaped black-edged white bands Habitat: Forests, grasslands, farmlands, and rocky areas Behaviour: Nocturnal and terrestrial
11	Eastern Racer (Coluber constrictor)	Size: Up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) Color: Black, blue-gray, or brown with a white or pale underbelly Habitat: Wide range of habitats, including grasslands, woodlands, and coastal areas Behaviour: Diurnal and fast-moving
12	Eastern Rat Snake (Pantherophis alleghaniensis)	Size: Up to 7 feet (2.1 meters) Color: Black or dark gray with pale gray, tan, or yellow Habitat: Forests, meadows, wetlands, and urban areas Behaviour: Semi-arboreal, diurnal or nocturnal depending on temperature
13	Eastern Ribbon Snake (Thamnophis sauritus sauritus)	Size: 18-34 inches (45-86 cm) Color: Black, greenish, or brown with three distinct light stripes Habitat: Wetlands, swamps, and marshes near water Behaviour: Active during the day, good swimmers, and skittish
14	Northern Mole Kingsnake (Lampropeltis calligaster rhombomaculata)	Size: Up to 4 feet (1.2 meters) Color: Brown or gray with light-bordered dark blotches Habitat: Woodlands, meadows, and grasslands, often near water Behaviour: Nocturnal and fossorial
15	Northern Ringneck Snake (Diadophis punctatus edwardsii)	Size: 12-15 inches, rarely up to 24 inches Color: Gray or black with a distinctive yellow or orange ring around the neck Habitat: Woodlands, rock outcrops, and grasslands Behaviour: Nocturnal, secretive, and terrestrial
16	Pine Snake (Pituophis melanoleucus)	Size: Up to 7 feet (2.1 meters) Color: Cream, tan, or gray with dark splotches Habitat: Forests, fields, and sandy areas Behaviour: Primarily terrestrial and fossorial
17	Queen Snake (Regina septemvittata)	Size: Up to 3 feet (0.9 meters) Color: Olive, brown or gray with three stripes and cream or yellowish belly Habitat: Streams, creeks, and other aquatic environments Behaviour: Diurnal, and highly aquatic
18	Rainbow snake (Farancia erytrogramma)	Size: Up to 5.5 feet (1.67 meters) Color: Black with colorful red or pink stripes Habitat: Aquatic habitats, such as rivers, lakes, and swamps Behaviour: Nocturnal, secretive, and rarely seen
19	Red-Bellied Snake (Storeria occipitomaculata)	Size: 8-16 inches (20-41 cm) Color: Gray or brown with a red or orange belly Habitat: Forests, woodlands, and wetlands Behaviour: Nocturnal, secretive, and terrestrial
20	Rough Earth Snake (Virginia striatula)	Size: Up to 10-14 inches (25-35 cm) Color: Brown or gray with smooth scales Habitat: Wooded or grassy areas, often near water sources Behaviour: Secretive and burrow-dwelling
21	Rough Green Snake (Opheodrys aestivus)	Size: 22-32 inches (56-81 cm) Color: Bright green with a lighter belly Habitat: Forests, grasslands, and areas near water sources Behaviour: Diurnal, arboreal, and good climbers
22	Scarlet Snake (Cemophora coccinea)	Size: Up to 20-30 inches (50-76 cm) Color: Red or orangish with black bands and a white or yellowish underbelly Habitat: Forests, grasslands, and suburban areas Behaviour: Nocturnal and burrowing
23	Smooth Earth Snake (Virginia valeriae)	Size: 7-10 inches (18-25 cm) Color: Brown or gray with a lighter belly Habitat: Forests, woodlands, and grasslands Behaviour: Nocturnal, secretive, and burrow-dwelling
24	Smooth Green Snake (Opheodrys vernalis)	Size: 14-20 inches (36-51 cm) Color: Bright green with a lighter belly Habitat: Grasslands, meadows, and open woodlands Behaviour: Diurnal, terrestrial, and good climbers
25	Southern Ringneck Snake (Diadophis punctatus punctatus)	Size: 12-15 inches (30-38 cm) Color: Gray or black with a yellow or orange ring around the neck Habitat: Various habitats, including forests, grasslands, wetlands, and urban areas Behaviour: Nocturnal and secretive
26	Timber Rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus)	Size: Up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) Color: Yellow, brown, gray, or black with dark bands Habitat: Forests, mixed woodlands, and rocky hillsides Behaviour: Solitary and ambush predator
27	Yellow-bellied Watersnake (Nerodia erythrogaster flavigaster)	Size: Up to 4.5 feet (1.37 meters) Color: Dark brown or black with yellow belly Habitat: Aquatic habitats, such as swamps, marshes, and slow-moving streams Behaviour: Semi-aquatic, active mainly at dusk and night

27 Snakes You Can Find in Maryland

In the state of Maryland, 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 Maryland, from their natural habitats and behaviors to the challenges they face in our changing world.

1. Coastal Plain Milksnake

The Coastal Plain Milksnake (Lampropeltis calligaster rhombo.maculata) is a non-venomous reptile that grows up to 2-2.5 feet (61-76 cm). Known for its vibrant red or orange color and distinctive black bands, it has a V-shaped marking on its head. This nocturnal creature can be found in various habitats, including coastal plains, marshes, flatwoods, and upland forests. Its diet consists of small mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. The snake reproduces by laying egg clutches of 3-10, and its conservation status is considered as Least Concern.

2. Common Garter Snake

The Common Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis) is a 3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters) non-aggressive and mildly venomous reptile with a green or brown body and three yellow stripes. Inhabiting wet and moist habitats like marshes, fields, and forests of Maryland, these diurnal snakes hibernate during winter to escape the cold. Their diet consists of frogs, fish, earthworms, and small mammals. Uniquely, these snakes birth live young, producing 10-40 per litter. Although venomous, they pose no threat to humans and are currently listed as a species of least concern for conservation.

3. Common Water Snake

The Common Water Snake (Nerodia sipedon) is a non-venomous, nocturnal, semiaquatic reptile that can grow up to 4.5 feet (1.4 meters) in size. Their brown or gray body has dark bands or blotches as markings. Commonly found in aquatic habitats like lakes, rivers, and ponds, this snake’s diet consists of fish, frogs, and salamanders. It reproduces by giving birth to live young in litters containing 10-40 offspring. Although non-venomous, it can release foul-smelling musk in defense. Its conservation status is of least concern.

4. Common Worm Snake

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.

5. Corn Snake

The Corn Snake (Pantherophis guttatus) is a non-venomous North American species, ranging from 24-72 inches in length. Their striking coloration consists of an orange or brownish-yellow base with red or brown blotches. Inhabiting woodlands, grasslands, and abandoned buildings, these nocturnal and terrestrial creatures feed primarily on rodents, birds, and eggs. Corn Snakes reproduce by laying egg clutches of 10-30, and have a conservation status of Least Concern.

6. Dekay’s Brownsnake

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.

7. Eastern Copperhead

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 Maryland. 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.

8. Eastern Hog-nosed Snake

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.

9. Eastern Kingsnake

The Eastern Kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula) is a non-venomous snake, reaching up to 4 feet (1.2 meters) long. Its black or dark brown body features white or yellow bands. Commonly found in forests, wetlands, grasslands, and suburban areas, these diurnal and terrestrial snakes are known for their diverse diet, feeding on small mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. Eastern Kingsnakes reproduce by laying clutches of 3-24 eggs. They are relatively unthreatened, maintaining a conservation status of “Least Concern.”

10. Eastern Milksnake

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 Maryland, 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.

11. Eastern Racer

The Eastern Racer (Coluber constrictor) is a fast-moving, diurnal snake that can grow up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) in length. With a variety of colors such as black, blue-gray, or brown and a white or pale underbelly, it can be found in a wide range of habitats including grasslands, woodlands, and coastal areas. Its diet consists of rodents, lizards, insects, frogs, and birds. Eastern Racers are non-venomous and lay eggs in clutches of 5-40. They are considered a species of least concern in conservation.

12. Eastern Rat Snake

The Eastern Rat Snake (Pantherophis alleghaniensis) is a large, non-venomous reptile that can reach 7 feet (2.1 meters) in length. They have a black or dark gray color with patches of pale gray, tan, or yellow. Found in forests, meadows, wetlands, and urban areas, these semi-arboreal snakes have diurnal or nocturnal behavior depending on temperature. Their diet consists of rodents, birds, and bird eggs. Eastern Rat Snakes reproduce by laying eggs in clutches of 5-27 and have a conservation status marked as “Least Concern.”

13. Eastern Ribbon Snake

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.

14. Northern Mole Kingsnake

The Northern Mole Kingsnake (Lampropeltis calligaster rhombomaculata) is a non-venomous snake that can reach up to 4 feet (1.2 meters) in length. Its color varies from brown to gray with light-bordered dark blotches. Mainly found in woodlands, meadows, and grasslands near water, this nocturnal and fossorial species prefers to feed on small mammals, birds, frogs, and other snakes. Mating takes place in spring, with females laying 5-15 eggs in early summer. Though not officially listed, the species is likely of least concern in terms of conservation.

15. Northern Ringneck Snake

The Northern Ringneck Snake (Diadophis punctatus edwardsii) is a small, mildly venomous snake native to North America, measuring 12-15 inches in length, rarely reaching up to 24 inches. Its body color varies from gray to black and features a distinctive yellow or orange ring around its neck. The species inhabits woodlands, rock outcrops, and grasslands, exhibiting nocturnal, secretive, and terrestrial behavior. Its diet consists of small invertebrates, slugs, earthworms, and small amphibians. These snakes reproduce by laying egg clutches of 3-10 and pose no threat to humans. Their conservation status is listed as least concern.

16. Pine Snake

The Pine Snake (Pituophis melanoleucus) is a large, non-venomous reptile that can reach up to 7 feet (2.1 meters) in length. Its primary colors include cream, tan, and gray with dark splotches. Native to forests, fields, and sandy areas, they are primarily terrestrial and fossorial creatures. Pine Snakes feed on rodents and small mammals, and occasionally birds and eggs. They reproduce by laying egg clutches, consisting of 3-24 eggs. Pine Snake’s conservation status is listed as least concern.

17. Queen Snake

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.

18. Rainbow snake

The Rainbow Snake (Farancia erytrogramma) is a colorful, non-venomous aquatic serpent, growing up to 5.5 feet (1.67 meters) in length. Boasting a sleek black body with vibrant red or pink stripes, it is commonly found in rivers, lakes, and swamps. This secretive, nocturnal snake feeds primarily on eels and other small fish. Rainbow Snakes lay eggs in clutches of 10-20, and despite their elusive nature, are considered to be of least concern in terms of conservation status.

19. Red-Bellied Snake

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 Maryland, 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.

20. Rough Earth Snake

The Rough Earth Snake (Virginia striatula) is a small, non-venomous snake that grows up to 10-14 inches (25-35 cm) in length. Sporting a brown or gray color and smooth scales, they typically inhabit wooded or grassy areas, often near water sources. As secretive and burrow-dwelling creatures, their diet primarily consists of earthworms and other small invertebrates. They reproduce by laying clutches of 3-8 eggs, and their conservation status currently stands at “Least Concern.”

21. Rough Green Snake

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 Maryland 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.

22. Scarlet Snake

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.

23. Smooth Earth Snake

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.

24. Smooth Green Snake

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.’

25. Southern Ringneck Snake

The Southern Ringneck Snake (Diadophis punctatus punctatus) is a small species measuring 12-15 inches (30-38 cm) in length, with a distinct gray or black coloration and a bright yellow or orange ring around its neck. Found in various habitats such as forests, grasslands, wetlands, and urban areas, this nocturnal and secretive creature feeds on small insects, amphibians, and other snakes. Although mildly venomous, it poses no danger to humans. It reproduces by laying clutches of 3-10 eggs and has a conservation status of Least Concern.

26. Timber Rattlesnake

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.

27. Yellow-bellied Watersnake

Yellow-bellied Watersnake, also known by its scientific name Nerodia erythrogaster flavigaster, is a semi-aquatic species of Maryland growing up to 4.5 feet (1.37 meters) in length. These non-venomous snakes exhibit dark-brown or black coloring on their bodies, while their bellies showcase a bright yellow hue. Found in aquatic habitats like swamps, marshes, and slow-moving streams, they are active mainly at dusk and night. Their diet consists of fish, frogs, and amphibians, and they reproduce by giving birth to live litters of 10-30 young. Their conservation status stands at least concern.

Nearby States:

• Snakes in Massachusetts
• Snakes in New Hampshire

Final Words

All the 27 snakes have truly opened our eyes to the fascinating world of snakes found in Maryland. 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 Maryland, 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!

What Types of Snakes Can Be Found in Maryland?

In the snakes in missouri wildlife guide, you can find various types of snakes that can be found in Maryland. Some of the common snakes include the eastern rat snake, northern copperhead, timber rattlesnake, and black racer. It’s important to be aware of these snakes when exploring the outdoors in Maryland.

Are Snakes Found in Arkansas Also Common in Maryland?

Arkansas and Maryland share some similarities in their snake populations, but distinct regional differences exist. While a few snake species may be found in both states, many arkansas species of native snakes are unique to their environment and climate, making them less common in Maryland’s habitats.

¿Qué tipo de serpientes se pueden encontrar en Maryland y Nevada respectivamente?

En Maryland, se pueden encontrar serpientes como la serpiente de cascabel del este, la serpiente de agua del norte y la serpiente de liga común. Mientras tanto, en Nevada, algunas de las serpientes que se pueden encontrar incluyen la serpiente de cascabel del Pacífico y la serpiente de mazorca. Es importante conocer las leyes de serpientes de nevada antes de interactuar con ellas.

Resources:

• A Book List for Junior High Schools.. INSTIT
• Results for – Explore Courses – Stanford University
• https://pages.cs.wisc.edu/~o-laughl/pair-counts
• categorization of pornographic video clips on the internet: a …