How to Identify Snakes in Kiowa, Colorado

Snakes with a rattle

• 1

  Identify the snake as a rattlesnake. The rattle will be at the end of the snake's tale. Since there are several varieties of rattlesnakes, you will need to look for other distinctive features to reach an accurate identification.

• 2

  Look at the snake's scales. If the length of scales at the top of the head appears to be about four inches in length, the snake is likely a Crotalus viridis, or Western (prairie) rattlesnake.

• 3

  Examine the scales further if they are smaller than four inches. If the head scales measure about two inches in length, the snake is likely a Sistrurus catenatus, or Massasauga rattlesnake.

Identify Snakes without a Rattle

• 4

  Identify distinguishing characteristics of non-rattlesnakes. Draw on information from you identification key, or consult your field guide. Colorado is home to many types of non-rattlesnakes, including the striped whipsnake, plains garter, blackneck garter, common garter, lined snake, western terrestrial garter, western hognose, coachwhip and the ringneck, to name only a few.

• 5

  Focus on features such as the direction and color of any striping on the snake. Body length can also be an important factor for identification.

• 6

  Examine, if possible, the belly of the snake. Look for the presence of rings, either covering the body or located around the neck. Also look out for distinguishing markings on the head. Finding these and other markings will help identify the snake when consulting an illustrated field guide.