Snakes in Illinois: Common Species and Safety Tips

Snakes in Illinois may not be the most popular topic of conversation, but they are an important part of the state’s ecosystem. From the common and harmless Garter Snake to the elusive Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake, Illinois is home to a variety of snake species.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the most common snakes found in Illinois, along with safety tips to help you coexist with these slithering creatures. So, get ready to unravel the mysteries of the snake kingdom and learn how to stay safe in snake habitat!

Garter Snake

The garter snake is one of the most common snake species found in Illinois. They are non-venomous and can be easily identified by their long, slender bodies and distinctive striped pattern. Garter snakes are typically green or brown in color, with yellow or white stripes running down their sides.

These snakes are highly adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, wetlands, and suburban areas. They are active during the day and are often seen basking in the sun or hunting for prey.

Garter snakes primarily feed on small amphibians, fish, worms, and insects. They have a mild temperament and are generally not aggressive towards humans. If encountered, they may try to escape or release a foul-smelling musk as a defense mechanism.

Although garter snakes are harmless, it is important to give them their space and avoid provoking or handling them. If you come across a garter snake in your yard or while hiking, appreciate them from a distance and let them continue on their way.

Remember, snakes play an important role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems and should be respected and protected.

Rat Snake

The Rat Snake is a common species of snake found in Illinois. It is non-venomous and poses no threat to humans. Rat Snakes are known for their excellent climbing abilities and can often be found in trees or other elevated areas.

Rat Snakes are constrictors, meaning they catch their prey and squeeze it to death before swallowing it whole. They primarily feed on rodents, birds, and eggs.

Rat Snakes have a distinct pattern with dark brown or black coloration and lighter, sometimes yellow, scales. Their scales are smooth, and they have a slender body. They can grow up to six feet in length.

When encountered, Rat Snakes are generally docile and will try to escape rather than confront humans. However, if threatened or cornered, they may strike or bite. It is important to keep a safe distance and avoid provoking or handling Rat Snakes.

If you come across a Rat Snake in your home or property, it is recommended to contact a professional wildlife removal service to safely remove the snake and ensure it is relocated to a suitable habitat.

Remember, snakes play an essential role in the ecosystem by controlling rodent populations. It is best to appreciate and respect them from a distance while taking necessary precautions to ensure your safety.

Milk Snake

The Milk Snake is a species of snake that can be found in Illinois. It is a non-venomous snake and is harmless to humans. Milk Snakes are known for their vibrant colors and patterned scales, which resemble the patterns found on the venomous Coral Snake. This mimicry helps protect the Milk Snake from predators.

• Milk Snakes typically have a glossy, smooth texture and can grow up to 3-4 feet in length.
• They are primarily found in wooded areas, grasslands, and abandoned buildings.
• Milk Snakes are carnivorous and feed on small rodents, birds, eggs, and other snakes.
• Like most snakes, Milk Snakes are generally non-aggressive and will only bite if threatened or provoked.
• It is important to never handle a snake unless you are a trained professional.
• If you encounter a Milk Snake in the wild, it is best to observe it from a safe distance and let it continue on its way.

By understanding the common snake species in Illinois, like the Milk Snake, and practicing safety measures, you can coexist peacefully with these fascinating creatures in their natural habitats.

Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake

The Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake is a venomous snake species found in Illinois. It is a small to medium-sized rattlesnake with a stout body and dark brown or grayish-colored scales. One of its distinctive features is the rattle at the end of its tail, which it uses as a warning signal when threatened.

This rattlesnake typically inhabits wetland areas such as marshes, swamps, and floodplains, where it preys on small mammals, birds, and amphibians. It is a shy and reclusive snake, often hiding under vegetation or in burrows during the day and becoming more active at night.

While the Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake is venomous, it rarely poses a threat to humans. It is a docile snake that tries to avoid confrontation and will only bite as a last resort when it feels threatened or cornered. If you encounter a rattlesnake in the wild, it is important to give it a wide berth and not disturb or provoke it.

If you happen to be bitten by an Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake, seek medical attention immediately. The venom of this snake can cause symptoms such as swelling, pain, and potentially dangerous complications. However, with prompt medical treatment, the bites are rarely fatal.

It is essential to remember that Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnakes, like all snakes, play an important role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems. They help control populations of rodents and other small animals, and they are a valuable part of Illinois’ natural biodiversity.

When exploring natural areas in Illinois, it is always a good idea to stay on designated trails, wear appropriate footwear, and be aware of your surroundings. By practicing caution and respect for wildlife, you can safely enjoy the beauty of Illinois’ snake species, including the Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake.

Timber Rattlesnake

The timber rattlesnake is one of the venomous snake species found in Illinois. This species is characterized by its large size, averaging between 3 to 5 feet in length, with some individuals reaching up to 6 feet. They have a distinct pattern of dark crossbands on a lighter background, and their tails have a series of rattles, which they use as a warning signal.

Timber rattlesnakes are generally found in southern Illinois, particularly in the Shawnee National Forest and surrounding areas. They prefer rocky habitats such as bluffs, cliffs, and rocky outcrops, where they can find shelter and prey.

Like all rattlesnakes, timber rattlesnakes are venomous and have a specialized venom delivery system. Their venom is primarily used for hunting and subduing prey, which consists mainly of small mammals such as mice, rats, and rabbits. They are not typically aggressive towards humans and will usually only bite if they feel threatened or cornered.

If you encounter a timber rattlesnake in the wild, it is important to keep your distance and give the snake plenty of space. Avoid approaching or attempting to handle the snake, as this can increase the risk of a bite. If bitten by a timber rattlesnake, seek immediate medical attention and try to remain calm to slow the spread of venom.

It is worth noting that timber rattlesnakes are a protected species in Illinois, and it is illegal to harm, kill, or collect them without a permit. If you come across a timber rattlesnake or any other snake, it is best to leave them undisturbed and appreciate them from a safe distance.

Northern Water Snake

The Northern Water Snake is a common species of snake found in Illinois. As its name suggests, it is primarily found near bodies of water such as rivers, ponds, and marshes. This non-venomous snake is often mistaken for the venomous water moccasin, but it is important to note that the Northern Water Snake is harmless and plays a beneficial role in controlling populations of small mammals and amphibians.

The Northern Water Snake has a slender body with dark brown or black coloration, often marked with reddish-brown or gray blotches along its back. It can grow up to 4 feet in length. Despite its appearance, the Northern Water Snake is not aggressive and will typically try to escape rather than confront humans or pets.

If you encounter a Northern Water Snake, it is important to remember to keep your distance and observe it from a safe distance. Do not attempt to handle or provoke the snake, as it may become defensive if it feels threatened. It is also a good idea to keep pets on a leash near bodies of water to avoid any potential encounters with snakes.

It is worth noting that while the Northern Water Snake is harmless, it is important to be cautious and avoid any unnecessary contact with snakes in general. If you are unsure about the species of snake you have encountered or if you are concerned about the presence of snakes in your area, it is recommended to contact local wildlife authorities for guidance and assistance.

Eastern Hog-nosed Snake

The Eastern Hog-nosed Snake is a fascinating species of snake native to Illinois. It is known for its unique defensive behavior of “playing dead” when threatened.

This species can be identified by its distinctive upturned snout, which resembles a hog’s nose, and its patterned skin that ranges from gray to brown with dark blotches and stripes. It typically grows to a length of 20 to 33 inches.

The Eastern Hog-nosed Snake is not venomous and poses no threat to humans. In fact, it is beneficial to have these snakes in the ecosystem as they help control rodent populations. They primarily feed on toads, frogs, and small rodents.

When the Eastern Hog-nosed Snake feels threatened, it may perform an elaborate display to scare away predators. It will flatten its body, hiss loudly, and strike with its mouth closed, mimicking the behavior of a venomous snake. If this fails to deter the threat, the Eastern Hog-nosed Snake will then roll onto its back, open its mouth, and emit a foul-smelling musk. It may also twitch and convulse, giving the appearance of being dead. This impressive act is why it has earned the nickname “spreading adder.”

It is important to note that the Eastern Hog-nosed Snake is a protected species in Illinois and should not be harmed or killed. If you encounter one in the wild, it is best to observe from a safe distance and allow it to continue on its way.

Remember, snakes play an important role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems, so it is crucial to coexist with them peacefully and respect their natural habitats.

Smooth Earth Snake

The Smooth Earth Snake, also known as the Virginia valeriae, is a small and non-venomous snake species commonly found in Illinois. It has a smooth and shiny appearance, giving it its name.

Smooth Earth Snakes are typically brown or gray in color, with darker blotches or spots along their bodies. They have a slender build and can grow up to 10-14 inches in length. Their small size and secretive nature make them difficult to spot in the wild.

These snakes are primarily found in woodland areas with moist soil, such as forests, meadows, and gardens. They are skilled burrowers and spend a significant amount of time underground. Smooth Earth Snakes feed on earthworms, slugs, and other small invertebrates.

Smooth Earth Snakes are harmless to humans and play a beneficial role in the ecosystem by helping to control populations of pests like slugs. If you happen to come across a Smooth Earth Snake, it is best to observe it from a distance and avoid handling it. Remember, snakes are an important part of the natural environment and should be respected and admired from afar.

Ring-necked Snake

The Ring-necked Snake is a small and non-venomous snake that is commonly found in Illinois. It is named for the yellow or orange ring around its neck. These snakes are usually around 10-15 inches long and have smooth scales and a slender body.

Ring-necked snakes are typically black or dark gray in color with a light yellow or orange belly. They have a distinctive behavior of curling their tail up and showing their bright underside when threatened.

These snakes are primarily nocturnal, which means they are most active at night. They prefer to live in wooded areas with plenty of leaf litter, logs, and rocks where they can hide and hunt for their prey.

Ring-necked snakes primarily feed on small amphibians and reptiles, such as frogs, salamanders, and other snakes. They are known to be constrictors, meaning they wrap their bodies around their prey to suffocate and then swallow it whole.

While Ring-necked snakes are not venomous and pose no threat to humans, they may bite if they feel threatened or cornered. Their bite is harmless and usually feels like a small pinprick. If you encounter a Ring-necked snake, it is best to admire it from a distance and let it go on its way.

Overall, Ring-necked snakes are fascinating creatures to observe in their natural habitat. They play an important role in the ecosystem by keeping the population of small amphibians and reptiles in check. So, if you happen to come across one of these snakes in Illinois, consider yourself lucky to see such a unique and harmless species!

Eastern Ribbon Snake

The Eastern Ribbon Snake is a common species of snake found in Illinois. It is known for its distinctive long, slender body and its black or dark brown color with a bright yellow or white stripe along its side.

These snakes are non-venomous and are harmless to humans. They primarily feed on small amphibians, insects, and fish. The Eastern Ribbon Snake is often found near bodies of water such as rivers, ponds, and marshes.

When threatened, the Eastern Ribbon Snake may try to escape or release a strong-smelling musk as a defense mechanism. Despite their harmless nature, it’s important to remember that wild snakes should always be respected and observed from a safe distance.

If you encounter an Eastern Ribbon Snake or any other snake in Illinois, it is best to keep a safe distance and avoid provoking or attempting to handle the snake. If you have concerns about a snake on your property or if you encounter a venomous snake, it is recommended to contact local wildlife or pest control professionals for assistance.

Conclusion

Snakes can be found in various parts of Illinois, and it’s important to be familiar with the common species and know how to stay safe if you encounter one. While most snakes in Illinois are harmless and play a beneficial role in natural ecosystems, there are a few venomous species to be aware of, such as the Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake and the Timber Rattlesnake.

Remember, if you do come across a snake, it’s best to keep your distance and give it space. Snakes are generally shy and will avoid human interaction if given the chance. By staying knowledgeable about common snake species in your area and practicing snake safety precautions when exploring nature, you can coexist peacefully with these fascinating creatures and enjoy all that Illinois has to offer.