Nonpoisonous Snakes in Southwest Louisiana

Banded Water Snake

• The banded water snake makes its home throughout most of Louisiana and is common in the southwestern part of the state. This snake, which can be found throughout the southeastern United States, is often found near water, such as ponds, streams, marshes and rivers.

Coachwhip

• The coachwhip is found in southwest Louisiana but not in the southernmost tip of western Louisiana. Coachwhips are sometimes called whip snakes and there are seven different subspecies found in the United States. Coachwhip snakes usually live in open grassy areas, but can sometimes be found in forests.

Crayfish Snake

• There are two species of crayfish snake that live in Louisiana -- the glossy crayfish snake and the Graham's crayfish snake. The glossy crayfish snake lives all over southwest Louisiana, while the Graham's crayfish snake has sparse populations in central and southwest Louisiana. Neither of these snakes is venomous.

Eastern Hog-Nosed Snake

• The Eastern hog-nosed snake is found in southwest Louisiana as well as most of the rest of the state. The Eastern hog-nosed snake is a rear-fanged snake, which means that it is slightly venomous but only as much as a bee sting. However, people who are allergic to insect stings might have a serious reaction. Eastern hog-nosed snakes are most often referred to as nonvenomous snakes.

Fun Fact

• Even though snakes are sometimes referred to as poisonous and nonpoisonous, these are incorrect terms. Venom is injected, which is why snakes and stinging insects are considered venomous. Poison is something that is eaten or ingested through the skin. For example, poison arrow frogs are poisonous because they secrete their poison through their skin. It is transferred to their victims through touch.