Northern Indiana Snake Identification

Northern Indiana Snake Identification. Each species of snake has its own distinguishable characteristics. These characteristics, primarily appearance- and location-based, can be used to identify by sight a snake found in the wild. There are approximately 35 species of snakes in the state of Indiana, but not all of these species are found in the northern part of the state. To identify snakes in northern Indiana, you should first study a snake reference guide, such as the book listed in the Resources section, and then use that knowledge to identify wild snakes based on certain characteristics.

Size

Some snakes in northern Indiana are large while others are quite small, so size is one characteristic which can be used to identify snakes. For example, the common garter snake typically ranges from 16 to 18 inches in length. Adult northern water snakes, on the other hand, have an average length between 25 and 40 inches. Size should never be used as the sole criterion for identifying snakes. In conjunction with other information, however, it can be useful.

Coloring

A more distinctive feature that can be used to identify snakes is scale pattern and color. The smooth green snake is easily identifiable by its bright green scales. As it is the only snake in northern Indiana with this coloring, it can generally be identified by color alone. However, some snakes have similar colorings and can be easily mixed up. For example, the midland brown snake’s parallel rows of black spots and brown body resemble the common garter snake, while the light band around its neck looks like that of a ring-neck snake.

Habitat

A third criterion for identifying northern Indiana snakes is habitat. Some snakes prefer marshy, swampy areas, like the fox snake. Others, like the northern water snake, prefer streams and other water sources. Still others, like the northern ring-neck snake, tend to inhabit woods and fields.

Poisonous Snakes

There are four poisonous snakes common to the state of Indiana. Luckily for residents, only one species inhabits the northern part of the state. The massasauga rattlesnake is a small pit viper that can be found in marshes or occasionally woodlands and open fields. This snake is extremely rare and is actually endangered. It has large, blotchy dark spots on its back and sides over pale white or gray scales.

Identification Tips

Never provoke or try to handle a wild snake. Though most snakes in northern Indiana are not poisonous, they can still bite. Try not to step over logs or other obstacles unless you can see the other side, as these are ideal hiding places for many species of snakes. If you go for a walk or hike outside, take a walking stick with you and make some noise as you go along to ward off snakes.

References

• Indiana Department of Natural Resources: Snakes of Indiana State Parks and Reservoirs
• Hoosier Herpetological Society: Reptiles of Indiana