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How to Identify Snakeskin

As they grow, snakes regularly shed their entire skins by rubbing against a solid object. If you live near snakes, you may occasionally come across a shed skin next to a tree or building. Though shed skins are pale and monochrome, they possess detailed characteristics of the snakes they belonged to. Inspecting snake skin is a safe way to learn about the snake species that live around your home. Most snakes are non-venomous and benefit humans by decreasing the rodent population.

Things You'll Need

Field guide

Instructions

- 1
  Examine the snakeskin's tail for the presence of a rattle. The timber rattlesnake lives throughout most of the United States, and other varieties are common in the Southwest.
- 2
  Look under the tail for a row of scales. Most venomous snakes have a single row, while most non-venomous snakes have a double row. The coral snake, however, has a double row, despite being venomous.
- 3
  Examine the snakeskin's head. Venomous snakes typically have a triangular head, while non-venomous snakes usually have an oval-shaped head.
- 4
  Look between the snake's eyes for a hole, or pit. This indicates a venomous snake.
- 5
  Look at the scale patterns to determine the specific type of snake. A python, for example, has a characteristic diamond pattern. Consult a field guide to compare the snakeskin's patterns with those of snakes native to your area.

Animals & Science