Snakes

Only six of Florida's 44 snake species are venomous, the eastern coral snake, the southern copperhead, the cottonmouth, the eastern diamondback rattlesnake, the timber rattlesnake, and the dusky pygmy rattlesnake.  Most Florida snakes are harmless and beneficial and remove extra rodent populations.  Even the venomous species are not particularly dangerous unless stepped on or otherwise provoked.  Killing a snake should be a measure of LAST RESORT!

Some people do not like snakes in or around their dwellings or out-buildings.  Fortunately, snakes can be removed from buildings without harm to either you or the snake through the use of glueboards or funnel traps.

The frequent sighting of snakes near dwellings or out-buildings may indicate the presence of rodents. Removal of brush, lumber or other debris accumulations will discourage both rodents and snakes.  Rodent food sources like chronically spilled bird seed under feeders or pet foods scraps should also be policed regularly.

Venomous reptiles may only be possessed under license and specific laws are in effect for handling, caging, and transporting.

Online Guide to the Snakes of Florida

Summary of Florida's snake species

Checklist of Florida's Amphibians and reptiles

Guide to venomous snakes of Florida

University of Florida guide to venomous snakes

Nebraska guide to controlling snake problems

How to avoid being bitten by a snake

Guide to nonvenomous snakes

Information on the Eastern Indigo Snake

Florida herp bibliography

Removing snakes from buildings  

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