Identifying a snake by its pattern can be tricky, as there are many different species of snakes that can look similar at first glance. However, with some key information about snake markings and coloration, you can often narrow down what type of snake you are looking at. In this article, we will go over the basics of how to identify different types of snake patterns and what they might indicate about the species.
Check the overall pattern shape
One of the first things to look at when identifying a snake is the overall shape or structure of the pattern. Here are some of the main types of snake pattern shapes:
- Blotched – Large, irregular blotches, circles, or polygons down the back. These are seen in snakes like pythons and boas.
- Striped – Stripes that run lengthwise down the body. Seen in snakes like gartersnakes and racers.
- Banded – Thick bands that go all the way around the body. Common in coral snakes and milk snakes.
- Speckled – Smaller dots and speckles covering the body. Often seen in rattlesnakes and other vipers.
- Plain – No distinctive pattern, just a solid color. Some watersnakes andsmooth green snakes exhibit this.
If you can identify the basic pattern shape, this will help rule out certain snake families right away. For example, if the snake has stripes, you know you aren’t looking at a python.
Examine the pattern elements
After looking at the overall pattern shape, take a close look at the details of the snake’s markings. Note the size, shape, arrangement, and color of any blotches, spots, stripes, or bands on the snake. Here are some aspects to look for:
- Are the markings thick and blocky or thin and elongated?
- Do they touch each other or are they separated?
- Are they uniformly shaped or irregular?
- How are they arranged down the snake’s back?
- What colors and contrasts make up the pattern?
For example, a snake with small, paired dots down the center of the back is very different looking than a snake with large, jagged splotches across the body. Taking note of these subtleties will help pin down the species.
Check for key identifying markings
Many snakes have unique head, belly, or tail markings that can clinch the identification. When examining a snake, look for these signature markings:
- Head markings – Facial stripes, a sharp spear point, or distinctive coloration on the head or neck.
- Belly markings – Solid black, spotted, striped, or checkerboard patterns on the underside.
- Tail markings – Rattles, bright tail tips, or barred ends of the tail.
For example, the presence of a rattle identifies the snake as a rattlesnake, while a spear-shaped head and yellow belly marks are characteristic of garter snakes. Paying attention to the small details makes a big difference.
Consider the snake’s overall color
The overall background color of a snake also provides clues to its identity. Here are some color notes that can aid identification:
- Shades of brown, gray, or olive often indicate terrestrial snakes that blend in with soil and leaves.
- Bright reds, yellows, or oranges may warn of a venomous coral snake.
- Green coloration is common in arboreal tree snakes or snakes that live in vegetation.
- A light speckled band next to a dark one may signal a milk or king snake.
- Solid black, blue-black, or dark purple can indicate a venomous snake like a cottonmouth.
There are exceptions, but color is one more useful indicator when combined with the snake’s pattern, habitat, and geography.
Note key features like scales and head shape
Snakes are covered in scales, which differ across species and can help with identification. Pay attention to:
- Scale texture – Some snakes have very smooth, glossy scales while others seem dull or keeled.
- Scale arrangement – Look at whether the scales go all one direction, are offset, or form intricate diamond patterns.
- Head shape – Is the head very broad, rounded, triangular, etc.? Also note eye size and shape.
For instance, the scales of a garter snake are smooth and set in straight rows, while pythons have small, beadlike scales on top and larger, plated scales on the belly.
Consider native habitat and geographical location
Identifying snakes by pattern also requires knowing what species live in that area and habitat. If you’re trying to identify a snake, consider details like:
- What part of the country or world the snake was found in.
- The terrain, from forests and lakes to deserts and mountains.
- Climate factors, like tropical, temperate, dry, coastal, etc.
- What’s around the snake – trees, logs, water, rocks, etc.
For example, you can rule out tropical rattlesnakes in Canada. Understanding habitat limits the possibilities substantially.
Use multiple identification traits together
No single trait should be used to definitively identify a snake. Experts consider the combination of pattern, color, scales, body shape, head shape, habitat, geography, and behavior together.
For instance, a thick-bodied snake with blotches down the back in a southeastern swamp is very likely a cottonmouth. But if you spotted a similar snake pattern in Arizona, it would point to a very different species instead.
Look at all the evidence together to make the most reliable snake ID, and consult a field guide or expert if unsure.
| Snake Species | Key Identification Traits |
|---|---|
| Garter snake | Stripes down length of body, checkered belly pattern, thin smooth scales |
| Rattlesnake | Blotched or diamond pattern, triangular head, rustling tail rattle |
| Corn snake | Reddish-orange blotches bordered in black down back, white and black checkerboard belly |
| Milk snake | Bands of red/black/yellow-white, smooth scales, Y-shape on head |
| Boa constrictor | Thick brown body with dark “saddle” marks on back, small scales on top of head |
| Cottonmouth | Dark brown or black with crossbands down body, triangular head, found near water |
| Green tree python | Bright green scales, prehensile tail, found in trees of tropical forests |
| Gopher snake | Tan, brown or yellow with dark blotches, mimics rattlesnakes |
Use photos and illustrations to supplement live snakes
It’s not always possible to examine a live snake closely, but photos and illustrations can still be useful identification tools. When using reference materials:
- Look for multiple high-quality, color photos showing key markings.
- Note if it shows the snake from different angles and includes head/belly shots.
- Match the reference as closely as possible to what you observed in the wild.
- Use range maps to rule out species that don’t live in that geographic area.
Digital libraries like those from museums and universities provide scientifically accurate snake identification photos. But beware random online images that may be mislabeled or distinguish key traits.
Consider snake size, proportions, and movement
While snake patterns offer vital clues, other physical and behavioral traits provide additional context:
- Estimate the snake’s length and girth relative to its head size.
- Note if the body is very thick, slender, or laterally compressed.
- Watch how the snake moves – sidewinding, swift straight glides, etc.
- Observe tongue flicking, raised neck hoods, rattle shaking, and other behaviors.
For example, a large, thick snake that moves with a sidewinding motion is very likely a rattlesnake. The more clues, the better for positive ID.
Use dichotomous keys and snake ID guides
Dichotomous keys and printed field guides can walk you step-by-step through identifying a snake based on its traits. To use them:
- Find a guide specific to your region for most accurate options.
- Read the introduction to understand how the keys and guides work.
- Start at the first couplet and choose the statements that match the snake.
- Keep following the branching statements until you reach a species.
- Confirm the final species matches the snake in all traits noted.
Lamination helps field guides withstand rugged outdoor use. Carry one with you and practice snake identification skills regularly.
Submit photos to online communities for help with ID
If you can snap decent pictures of the snake, submit them to online communities like:
- Snake identification and education Facebook groups
- Subreddits like r/whatsthissnake and r/Snakes
- iNaturalist to get crowdsourced help with identification
- Reptile forums like thamnophis.com and reptileforums.co.uk
Make sure to include: clear photos showing key traits, your geographic location, where it was found, and any other details about size, behavior, habitat, etc. This gives the best chance at getting an accurate ID.
Consult local nature centers, zoos, and extension offices
Tap into local wildlife experts at institutions like:
- Nature centers and state/national parks
- Zoos and wildlife rehab facilities
- Cooperative extensions at universities
- State wildlife agencies – many run “what snake is this?” hotlines
- Herpetological societies and local reptile groups
Provide photos and location details when possible. These organizations have the benefit of local knowledge on which snake species are native to the area.
Use apps and websites with snake identification guides
Mobile field guide apps put detailed snake identification info right in your pocket. Some top options include:
- SnakeSnap – Take or upload photos for automated snake IDs in Europe, India, SE Asia, and South Africa.
- Snakes of Georgia, Arkansas, etc. – State-specific guides with photos, maps, key traits.
- Identisnakes – Database of Australian snakes with quizzes to test your skill.
- Snake Identifier – Dichotomous key-based app for U.S. snakes.
Websites like The Living Earth and Reptile Database also let you search for snakes by location, traits, taxonomy and more. Use these tools as backup for ID in the field.
Get certified in venomous snake handling and identification
Formal certification courses on snake handling and identification are offered by organizations like:
- Midwest Venomous Snake Identification Course
- Florida Museum Venomous Snake Identification Course
- Texas Snake Identification Courses by Texas Parks & Wildlife Department
- U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Venomous Snake Identification and Safety Courses
These intensive 1-5 day programs teach safe capture, handling techniques, antivenin use, and in-depth ID methods. Certification helps professionals reliably work with venomous snakes.
Conclusion
Identifying snakes by sight alone can be challenging, but with practice, knowledge of key traits, reference materials, and environmental context, accurate identifications are possible. Remember to use a multifaceted approach considering pattern, color, scales, size, shape, habitat, range, and behavior together. Consult experts if identification is difficult or the snake may be dangerous. With improved snake ID skills, you can more safely and positively interact with these iconic creatures in the wild.
