Snakes in West Virginia: Serpents With Altitude

Did you know that West Virginia is home to a fascinating variety of slithering reptiles? That’s right, there are around 20 different species of snakes that can be found in this beautiful state.

From venomous pit vipers to vibrant and harmless garter snakes, West Virginia has it all for those of us interested in these captivating creatures. So, buckle up and get ready to discover the incredible diversity of serpents inhabiting the hills and valleys of West Virginia.

Prepare for a wild adventure as we delve into the world of these amazing creatures and get up-close and personal with each of the species that call West Virginia their home. Let the journey begin!

#	Name	Details	Image
1	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
2	Common Kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula)	Size: 3 to 6 feet (0.9 to 1.8 meters) Color: Black or brown with light bands or stripes Habitat: Various habitats, including forests, grasslands, and desert Behaviour: Diurnal (mostly active during warm months), nocturnal (during hot summer nights)
3	Common Ribbon Snake (Thamnophis sauritus)	Size: Up to 28 inches (71 centimeters) Color: Black or brown with yellow or white stripes Habitat: Marshes, wet meadows, and forest edges near water Behaviour: Active during day, good swimmers and climbers
4	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
5	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
6	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
7	Eastern Worm Snake (Carphophis amoenus amoenus)	Size: Up to 11-14 inches (28-35.5 centimeters) Color: Pink-brown to gray-brown with a pinkish-yellow belly Habitat: Forests, woodlands, and grasslands with moist soil Behaviour: Burrowing, active at night, and secretive
8	Northern Black Racer (Coluber constrictor constrictor)	Size: Up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) Color: Uniform black with a white or gray chin Habitat: Forests, grasslands, and agricultural areas Behaviour: Diurnal and fast-moving
9	Northern Brown Snake (Storeria dekayi)	Size: Up to 20 inches (51 cm) Color: Brown or grayish-brown with a lighter stripe down the back Habitat: Various habitats, including wetlands, forests, and suburban areas Behaviour: Primarily diurnal, hiding under objects during the day and foraging at night
10	Northern Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix mokasen)	Size: 24 to 36 inches (61 to 91 centimeters), sometimes reaching 4 feet (1.2 meters) Color: Copper-colored with dark brown bands Habitat: Deciduous forests, mixed woodlands, rocky areas, and near streams Behaviour: Crepuscular and ambush predators
11	Northern Pine Snake (Pituophis melanoleucus)	Size: Up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) Color: White or yellowish with black or brown blotches Habitat: Dry, sandy habitats, such as pine forests and coastal dunes Behaviour: Diurnal and burrowing
12	Northern Red-bellied Snake (Storeria occipitomaculata occipitomaculata)	Size: Up to 16 inches (40 centimeters) Color: Gray or brown with a red or orange underside Habitat: Deciduous forests, meadows, and wetlands Behaviour: Nocturnal and terrestrial
13	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
14	Northern Rough Green Snake (Opheodrys aestivus)	Size: Up to 45 inches (1.1 meters) Color: Bright green with a yellowish-white belly Habitat: Found in open forests, meadows, and bushy areas near water Behaviour: Arboreal, diurnal
15	Northern 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, such as rivers, lakes, ponds, and marshes Behaviour: Nocturnal and semi-aquatic
16	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
17	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
18	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
19	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
20	Western Rat Snake (Pantherophis obsoletus)	Size: Up to 6.5 feet (2 meters) Color: Gray or brown with dark blotches Habitat: Various habitats, including forests, grasslands, and urban areas Behaviour: Diurnal and semi-arboreal

20 Snakes You Can Find in West Virginia

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

1. 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 West Virginia, 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.

2. Common Kingsnake

The Common Kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula) is a non-venomous reptile known for its striking black or brown coloration with light bands or stripes. These snakes, ranging between 3 to 6 feet (0.9 to 1.8 meters) in length, can be found in diverse habitats such as forests, grasslands, and deserts. They exhibit both diurnal (warm months) and nocturnal (hot summer nights) behaviors. With a diet consisting of rodents, birds, eggs, reptiles, and other snakes, they reproduce through laying egg clutches of 3-24. Their conservation status is categorized as least concern.

3. Common Ribbon Snake

The Common Ribbon Snake (Thamnophis sauritus) is a non-venomous reptile reaching up to 28 inches (71 centimeters) in length. It features a black or brown coloration with bright yellow or white stripes running down its body. Commonly found in marshes, wet meadows, and forest edges near water, these snakes are active during the day, exhibiting excellent swimming and climbing abilities. Their diet consists of frogs, tadpoles, toads, insects, and small fish. Reproduction involves egg-laying in clutches of 3-26 eggs. Currently, their conservation status is listed as “Least Concern.”

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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 West Virginia, 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.

7. Eastern Worm Snake

The Eastern Worm Snake (Carphophis amoenus amoenus) is a small, non-venomous species, reaching lengths of 11-14 inches (28-35.5 centimeters). It possesses a pink-brown to gray-brown coloration with a distinctive pinkish-yellow belly. This elusive, nocturnal burrower inhabits forests, woodlands, and grasslands with moist soil. Its diet primarily consists of earthworms and other soft-bodied invertebrates. The Eastern Worm Snake lays egg clutches of 2-8 eggs, and its conservation status is currently listed as “Least Concern.”

8. Northern Black Racer

The Northern Black Racer (Coluber constrictor constrictor) is a non-venomous snake species that can grow up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) in length. They exhibit a uniform black color with a white or gray chin. These fast-moving, diurnal reptiles inhabit forests, grasslands, and agricultural areas. Their diet primarily consists of rodents, birds, amphibians, insects, and other small animals. Northern Black Racers reproduce by laying clutches of 10-30 eggs. Currently, their conservation status is classified as least concern.

9. Northern Brown Snake

The Northern Brown Snake (Storeria dekayi) is a non-venomous reptile growing up to 20 inches (51 cm) in length, with a brown or grayish-brown coloration and a lighter stripe down its back. It can be found inhabiting wetlands, forests, and suburban areas across various regions. With primarily diurnal behavior, this snake hides during the day, foraging at night for earthworms, snails, and soft-bodied insects. Mating results in small clutches of 3-30 eggs. Its conservation status is currently listed as least concern.

10. Northern Copperhead

The Northern Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix mokasen) is a venomous snake found in deciduous forests, mixed woodlands, rocky areas, and near streams. It measures 24 to 36 inches (61 to 91 cm) in length, occasionally reaching 4 feet (1.2 meters). Copperheads are copper-colored and have dark brown bands on their bodies. These crepuscular ambush predators primarily prey on small mammals, birds, amphibians, and reptiles. They reproduce by giving birth to live young, with 4-14 offspring per litter. Though venomous, their bites are usually not fatal to humans. Their conservation status is currently classified as “least concern.”

11. Northern Pine Snake

The Northern Pine Snake (Pituophis melanoleucus) is a large, non-venomous reptile, reaching up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) in length. Its distinct white or yellowish scales feature black or brown blotches. This burrowing, diurnal species thrives in dry, sandy habitats like pine forests and coastal dunes, where it feeds on rodents, birds, and eggs. Mating results in egg clutches of 5-12, and despite habitat loss, the species’ conservation status is currently classified as “least concern.”

12. Northern Red-bellied Snake

The Northern Red-bellied Snake (Storeria occipitomaculata occipitomaculata) is a small, non-venomous reptile native to the United States. Measuring up to 16 inches (40 centimeters) in length, this species is characterized by its gray or brown coloration with a distinctive red or orange underside. Inhabiting deciduous forests, meadows, and wetlands, the nocturnal, terrestrial creature feeds primarily on slugs, snails, and earthworms. It is live-bearing, giving birth to 5-20 offspring at a time. Currently, the Northern Red-bellied Snake is considered to be of least concern for conservation efforts.

13. 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.

14. Northern Rough Green Snake

The Northern Rough Green Snake (Opheodrys aestivus) is a non-venomous, brightly colored reptile reaching up to 45 inches (1.1 meters) in length. Its vibrant green back complements its yellowish-white belly perfectly. These arboreal, diurnal snakes can be found in open forests, meadows, and bushy areas near water sources, such as streams and rivers. They primarily feed on insects, spiders, and small amphibians. Females lay clutches of 2-14 eggs during reproduction. Currently, their conservation status is categorized as least concern.

15. Northern Water Snake

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.

16. 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.

17. 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.

18. 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.’

19. 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.

20. Western Rat Snake

The Western Rat Snake (Pantherophis obsoletus) is a non-venomous species found in various habitats, including forests, grasslands, and urban areas. Measuring up to 6.5 feet (2 meters) long, this diurnal, semi-arboreal reptile exhibits a gray or brown coloration with dark blotches. Its diet primarily consists of rodents, birds, and eggs, making it an essential part of natural rodent population control. Breeding occurs through egg-laying, with each clutch containing 5-20 eggs. Western Rat Snakes have a conservation status of “least concern.”

Nearby States:

• Snakes in Alabama
• Snakes in Arkansas

Final Words

All the 20 snakes have truly opened our eyes to the fascinating world of snakes found in West Virginia. 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 West Virginia, 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 Snakes in Montana and West Virginia Adapted to High Elevations?

Snakes in montana are adapted to a range of elevations, including the foothills and mountainous areas, where cooler temperatures prevail. In West Virginia, the species that survive in higher elevations have evolved to handle cooler climates as well. These adaptations allow them to thrive in diverse and challenging environments.

Do Snakes in West Virginia Have Any Natural Predators?

Snakes in West Virginia do have natural predators. Predatory birds like hawks and owls are known to hunt snakes. Some mammals, such as foxes and raccoons, also prey on snakes. It’s interesting to learn how far can snakes eat their prey, showcasing the intricate relationships within the ecosystem.

Resources:

• COMMON SNAKES – West Virginia Department of Agriculture
• Black Ratsnake
• Northern Rough Greensnake
• Snakes of West Virginia