Venomous snakes in Florida

Florida is home to several venomous snake species. Here are some of the venomous snakes you can find in Florida:

  1. Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake (Crotalus adamanteus): This is the largest venomous snake in North America, known for its diamond-shaped patterns on its back and a large rattle on its tail.

  2. Timber Rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus): Found in the northern part of Florida, the timber rattlesnake has a distinctive pattern on its body and a rattle on its tail.

  3. Dusky Pygmy Rattlesnake (Sistrurus miliarius barbouri): This small rattlesnake has a grey or brownish color with dark blotches down its back. It is found in the northern and central regions of Florida.

  4. Eastern Coral Snake (Micrurus fulvius): Known for its bright red, yellow, and black bands, the eastern coral snake is highly venomous. It has a small head and is found in various habitats throughout Florida.

  5. Cottonmouth/Water Moccasin (Agkistrodon piscivorus): This semi-aquatic snake has a thick body and a triangular-shaped head. It is often found near water bodies, such as swamps, lakes, and marshes.

  6. Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix): Although less common in Florida compared to other states, the copperhead can still be found in some areas. It has a copper-colored head and distinctive hourglass-shaped patterns on its body.

It’s important to remember that encountering a venomous snake in the wild can be dangerous. If you come across a snake, it’s best to keep a safe distance and avoid provoking or handling it.