Hobbies And Interests

White Bellied Snakes in Ohio

Ohio is home to approximately 30 species and subspecies of snakes, most of which are not harmful to humans. Only three types of snakes in the state are venomous. Many species of snakes have white underbellies, and they can be distinguished by their color, patterns and size. Colors and markings can sometimes even vary within species. Most eat small rodents, insects, frogs and small water creatures. All snakes play a role in the natural environment by contributing to ecological systems and should not be harmed.
  1. Eastern Garter Snake

    • The eastern garter snake is the most populous snake in Ohio and is found in almost any habitat. It has a pattern of three light stripes on a dark body with one stripe running down the center of its back combined with a broad stripe on each side. The stripes are usually yellow, but can be other light colors as well. Sometimes there are black spots between the stripes, making the snake look checkered. The belly is pale green, yellow or white; the snake can grow to 26 inches in length.

    Brown Snakes

    • In Ohio, the midland brown snake and northern brown snake often interbreed, but both are identical in color and are between 9 and 13 inches long. The brown snake is brown or gray with a light stripe down the back bordered by black dots. The only difference is that in the midland brown snake, the spots are connected by dark crossbands, and it has 176 or more ventral and subcaudal scales, whereas the northern brown snake has 175 or fewer. The belly is white, but it can also be cream or pink in color.

    Eastern Smooth Earthsnake

    • Similar to the brown snake, the eastern smooth earth snake is a small, plain gray or brownish snake with a plain white or yellowish belly. It has a distinctly small head, rather stout body and is only 7 to 10 inches in length. It is a secretive snake that lives in damp, deciduous forests.

    Smooth Green Snakes

    • There are two types of smooth green snakes in Ohio. Born olive, brown, or gray, the western smooth green snake matures to a bright green hue with a white or pale yellow belly. The eastern smooth green snake has the same belly color, but it is a more subdued grass green. Both have smooth scales and grow up to 20 inches in length. They live in grassy areas, but are also comfortable climbing small trees and shrubs.

    Northern Water Snake

    • One of Ohio's most abundant species of snake, the northern water snake can inhabit any permanent body of water. Color can vary, but it often has dark bands or blotches on a light brown or gray background color and is 2 to 4 feet in length. Old adults may appear solid black or brown. The belly is white with reddish crescent-shaped markings, and some have an orange belly spotted with brown or black.

    Eastern Milk Snake

    • The eastern milk snake grows to between 2 and 4 feet in length and is a true constrictor. It has smooth scales with reddish or brown blotches on a gray or tan background. There is usually a light "Y" or "V" mark just behind the head. The belly is white with a black checkerboard pattern. It is a nocturnal snake that lives in a variety of habitats.


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