What makes water snakes in Louisiana alarming? Water snakes in Louisiana are more than just common sights in rivers and wetlands. They play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance by controlling fish populations.
Despite their importance, these non-venomous reptiles are often mistaken for their venomous counterparts, leading to unnecessary fear and confusion. Read on to discover practical tips for keeping them away from your property.
Key Takeaways
- Louisiana has many non-venomous water snakes like Diamondback, Banded, and Plain-Bellied Water Snakes.
- Most water snakes in Louisiana are harmless, but some, like Cottonmouths and Copperheads, can look similar and be dangerous.
- Homeowners can prevent water snakes by clearing debris, trimming plants, and sealing openings around the house.
- Calling pest control is a good idea if water snakes keep appearing on your property in Louisiana.
COMMON WATER SNAKES IN LOUISIANA
In Louisiana’s wetlands and bayous, water snakes are a common sight. These non-venomous snakes thrive in the freshwater habitats of the region. Here’s an overview of some common water snakes found in the region:
Diamondback Water Snake
The Diamondback Water Snake is common in Louisiana. It is recognized by its diamond-patterned back. Preferring bayous and riverbanks, it hunts fish and amphibians and can grow over five feet. It may release a musk when threatened.
Banded Water Snake
Distinctive crossbands mark the Banded Water Snake. It is often mistaken for venomous snakes. Found in swamps and marshes, it preys on small fish and frogs. It can reach up to four feet.
Mississippi Green Water Snake
The Mississippi Green Water Snake features smooth scales and a greenish tint. Preferring calm, vegetated waters, it rarely exceeds four feet. It hunts small fish and amphibians.
Plain-Bellied Water Snake
The Plain-Bellied Water Snake is known for its unmarked yellow or red bellies and thrives in swamps, lakes, and streams. It preys on fish, amphibians, and worms and releases a musk when threatened.
Broad-Banded Water Snake
The Broad-Banded Water Snake is identified by its dark bands. It favors marshes and wetlands with cover. Its sturdy body helps catch aquatic prey. It retreats swiftly to water when approached.
Crawfish Snake
The Crawfish Snake is commonly found in wetlands with abundant crayfish. It has brown or gray bodies with side stripes. Typically reaching two to three feet, it avoids confrontation and retreats when disturbed.
Midland Water Snake
The Midland Water Snake, a subspecies of the Northern Water Snake, lives in ponds, streams, and marshes. Known for its crossbands, it grows up to three feet. It is often mistaken for a venomous species.
Glossy Swamp Snake
The Glossy Swamp Snake, or Striped Crayfish Snake, lives in marshy areas rich in crayfish. It has smooth, dark scales with faint stripes. It typically reaches around two feet, preferring to flee when disturbed.
Salt Marsh Snake
The Salt Marsh Snake, found in coastal and brackish waters, can display various color patterns. Usually under three feet in length, it feeds on small fish and amphibians and adapts to tidal areas.
ARE WATER SNAKES DANGEROUS TO HUMANS?
Most water snakes in Louisiana are non-venomous. They may look intimidating but usually pose no threat to humans. Bite occurrences are rare and generally result in minor discomfort.
However, some non-venomous snakes resemble their venomous counterparts, leading to potential confusion.
For example, non-venomous water snakes often flatten their bodies and display aggressive postures when threatened. This mimicry is a survival tactic to deter predators by appearing more formidable.
Such behavior can be mistaken for that of venomous pit vipers like the Cottonmouth (Water Moccasin), Copperhead, Coral Snakes, and Pygmy Rattlesnake.
WHEN TO CALL PROFESSIONAL SNAKE SPECIALISTS
Water snakes are often found around ponds, lakes, and other bodies of water in Louisiana. Their presence might be tolerable for some, but there are times when professional help is needed. If water snakes repeatedly appear on your property, calling pest control can prevent unwanted risks.
Whether you’re in Baton Rouge or New Orleans, seeking expert help should be easy. For immediate intervention for a severe infestation, let Lajaunie’s snake specialists tailor a solution that’s right for your home.
For more information about our services, visit our service page.