Poisonous Snakes in Maine: a Guide to Identifying and Avoiding Them (2024)

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You’re probably wondering about the slithery creatures that call Maine home.

Well, you’re in luck! This guide will take you through the ins and outs of identifying and avoiding the poisonous snakes of Maine.

But don’t worry, while there are several snake species in the state, none of them are venomous.

Snake Species in Maine

Maine is home to a diverse range of snake species, with nine non-venomous varieties slithering through its landscapes. From the Ribbon Snake to the Northern Black Racer, each species boasts unique characteristics and behaviors, offering an exciting opportunity for observation and learning.

Ribbon Snake

• Habitat: These snakes love water and are usually found near ponds, marshes, and streams. They like to hang out in grassy areas and wetlands, so keep an eye out when you’re hiking or camping.
• Appearance: Imagine a dark brown body with a bright yellow stripe running down its length. That’s your tell-tale sign!
• Diet: Ribbon Snakes aren’t picky eaters. They’ll feast on frogs, salamanders, and even small fish.
• Threats and Conservation: While these snakes aren’t venomous, they can still be a bit nippy if they feel threatened. But overall, they’re pretty chill and just want to be left alone.

Eastern Milk Snake

If you’re in central or southern Maine, keep an eye out for the Eastern Milk Snake.

This snake stands out with its smooth, shiny scales and a pattern that’s a mix of brown, black, and red.

Growing up to 36 inches, these snakes are a common sight in the region.

Smooth Green Snake

Now, let’s turn our attention to the Smooth Green Snake, a small but vibrant member of Maine’s snake family. Here’s what you need to know about this slithering creature:

• Color Variation: True to its name, the Smooth Green Snake sports a light green body, almost resembling a vibrant ribbon of greenery. Its belly is a contrasting white or yellow, adding a touch of brightness to its appearance.
• Habitat Range: This little snake is most commonly found in central, southern, and eastern Maine, preferring to stay within these familiar regions.
• Diet Preferences: While we don’t know the specific diet of the Smooth Green Snake in Maine, we can assume it feeds on small insects, amphibians, and perhaps even the occasional rodent, like its cousin, the Eastern Milk Snake.
• Conservation Status: As with other snake species in Maine, there’s no specific conservation status mentioned for the Smooth Green Snake. However, it’s important to remember that all snakes play a key role in maintaining the ecosystem’s balance.

Common Watersnake

If you’re exploring Maine’s southern, eastern, or central regions, keep your eyes peeled for the Common Watersnake. This lengthy snake, reaching up to 4 feet 5 inches, showcases a colorful pattern of red, black/brown, gray, or brown, accented with dark crossbands and patches.

Common Watersnake
Length: Up to 4 feet 5 inches
Colors: Red, black/brown, gray, or brown
Patterns: Dark crossbands and patches

These snakes prefer to stay near water, so you’re more likely to encounter them in aquatic environments. While they may look intimidating, these snakes are non-venomous and will usually slither away rather than pose a threat.

Red-bellied Snake

The Red-bellied Snake, a snake species found throughout Maine, sports a distinctive feature: a vibrant belly that ranges from coral to brick red. Its body color varies from olive to tan, chestnut, or gray, making it a colorful sight. While not as common in the northernmost regions, this snake is a fascinating find in the state’s diverse snake lineup. Here are some key facts about the Red-bellied Snake:

1. Distribution: Found across Maine, with a preference for specific habitats.
2. Habitat: Likely to be found in a variety of environments, including woodlands, grasslands, and even semi-aquatic areas.
3. Identification: Look for the distinctive red belly and the varied body color, which can be olive, tan, chestnut, or gray.

Ring-necked Snake

Common throughout Maine, except in the northernmost regions, this snake sports a distinctive look with its yellow, orange, or red neckband, making it easily identifiable. Its body color varies from brown to blue-gray, black, or olive, blending seamlessly with its woodland habitat. These shy snakes prefer life in the woods, keeping a safe distance from humans.

DeKay’s Brown Snake

DeKay’s brown snakes are woodland dwellers, typically found within 50 miles of the coastline in southwestern Maine. They’ve a gray to brown body with a light central stripe bordered by black spots. These snakes are small, growing to a maximum length of 13 inches. They’re non-venomous and generally shy, preferring to flee rather than confront potential threats.

Northern American Racer

The Northern American Racer, a snake species found only in southern Maine, is a sight to behold. These slender snakes can grow up to five feet long, and they’re known for their speed and sleek, black or black/blue coloring with a light-colored belly. Here are some key facts about these fascinating creatures:

• Habitat: Southern Maine, often in open grasslands.
• Speed: Racers live up to their name, as they’re incredibly fast and agile.
• Diet: They’re non-venomous and feed on small animals like rodents, frogs, and insects.
• Conservation Status: Considered endangered in southern Maine, so it’s important to respect their presence and protect their habitat.
• Identification: Keep an eye out for their distinctive coloring and slender build.

Eastern Hog-nosed Snake

The Eastern Hog-nosed Snake is a master of defensive tactics.

With its upturned snout, this snake is easily identified.

But its most famous trait? Playing dead when threatened.

This snake’s dramatic fake-out is a unique survival strategy.

While not native to Maine, they’re often mistaken for local snakes due to their range in neighboring states.

Identifying Snakes in Maine

You’ve stumbled upon a snake in Maine, but is it venomous?

Can it slither away, or will it strike?

Knowing how to identify snakes is key to staying safe and understanding the fascinating creatures that call Maine home.

From colorful stripes to distinctive patterns, each species has its own unique look, and we’re here to help you become a snake spotting pro.

Characteristics of Ribbon Snake

The Ribbon Snake is a distinctive snake species found in Maine, and it has the following characteristics:

1. A dark brown body, providing an excellent camouflage against the forest floor or decaying leaves.
2. A vibrant yellow stripe running along its body, making it stand out from other snakes.
3. Growing up to 35 inches in length, it’s a relatively medium-sized snake.
4. Preferring semi-aquatic environments, you’ll most likely spot them near water bodies in southwestern Maine.

Characteristics of Eastern Milk Snake

If you’re out and about in Maine and you spot a snake, chances are it’s an Eastern Milk Snake. These snakes are pretty common in central and southern Maine, and they stand out with their distinctive brown, black, and red pattern.

Eastern Milk Snakes have smooth, shiny scales and can grow up to 36 inches in length. They’re often mistaken for the venomous Eastern Coral Snake, but there’s a simple rhyme to help you tell them apart: "Red touches black, it’s a friend of Jack. Red touches yellow, it’s bad for a fellow."

Here’s a quick comparison table to help you identify an Eastern Milk Snake:

Eastern Milk Snake	Eastern Coral Snake
Red bands touching black bands	Red bands touching yellow bands
Non-venomous	Venomous
Common in Maine	Not found in Maine
Grows up to 36 inches	Grows up to 24-36 inches

Characteristics of Smooth Green Snake

The Smooth Green Snake is a small, harmless reptile found in central, southern, and eastern Maine. Its standout feature is its bright green body, spanning up to 26 inches, with a white or yellow belly. This snake is a master of camouflage, blending seamlessly into its surroundings.

If you spot one, take a moment to appreciate its beauty – just remember to give it space and not disturb its natural habitat.

Characteristics of Common Watersnake

The Common Watersnake is a real chameleon in terms of looks. They can be red, black/brown, gray, or brown with dark crossbands and patches. These snakes are big, growing up to 4 feet 5 inches long. You’ll find them in southern, eastern, and central Maine, hanging out in watery spots.

Characteristics of Red-bellied Snake

The Red-bellied Snake is small, with a distinctive red-orange belly and deep brown scales. Its body ranges from olive to tan or chestnut to gray. This snake is found throughout Maine, though less commonly in the northernmost regions.

Characteristics of Ring-necked Snake

The ring-necked snake is a shy, woodland-dwelling snake commonly found throughout Maine, except in the northernmost regions.

Its most distinctive feature is its brightly colored neckband, which can be yellow, orange, or red, standing out against its more subdued body color.

The body color ranges from brown to blue-gray, black, or olive.

This snake is non-venomous and typically grows to between 10 and 15 inches in length.

Characteristics of DeKay’s Brown Snake

DeKay’s Brown Snake, often found in southwestern Maine, is a woodland dweller typically spotted within 50 miles of the coastline. This snake is identifiable by its gray to brown body, with a light central stripe bordered by black spots. It’s a small snake, growing to a maximum length of 13 inches.

Characteristics of Northern American Racer

If you’re in southern Maine and you spot a snake that’s black/blue to black with a light-colored belly, you’ve likely come across the Northern American Racer.

These speedy snakes can grow up to five feet long and are considered endangered in the area.

They’re often called northern black racers due to their dark coloring and lightning-quick movements.

If you see one, admire from a distance and let it be.

Characteristics of Eastern Hog-nosed Snake

The Eastern Hog-nosed Snake is often mistaken for a Maine native due to its range extending into neighboring states. It has a distinctive upturned snout, almost like it’s smiling at you. But don’t be fooled—this snake has a trick up its sleeve. When threatened, it plays dead, flopping over and even emitting a foul musk to deter predators.

Identification tips:

1. Look for the upturned snout—it’s their most distinctive feature.
2. They’re often found in open, sandy areas, so if you’re hiking through those environments, be on the lookout.
3. Their defense mechanism of playing dead is quite unique, so if you see a snake that appears lifeless, it might be an Eastern Hog-nosed Snake.
4. They’re not venomous, but they can strike and release a mild venom from their fangs, so keep your distance.

Snake Encounters in Maine

If you encounter a snake in Maine, stay calm and give it space? Don’t panic—chances are, it’s just as happy to avoid you as you’re to avoid it. Keep reading to learn how to identify snakes, what to do if you see one, and how to prevent unwanted encounters.

What to Do if You See a Snake

First things first: don’t panic! Remember, most snakes in Maine would rather slither away than stick around for a chat. Here’s what you should do if you cross paths with one of these slippery critters:

• Keep your distance: Respect the snake’s space and don’t try to get too close for a better look.
• Identify the species: If you can do so safely, try to identify the snake. This will help you determine if it’s one of Maine’s harmless non-venomous varieties.
• Call animal control for venomous snakes: In the unlikely event that you encounter a venomous snake (which, let’s remember, is very rare in Maine), remove yourself and any pets from the area and give your local animal control a buzz identify venomous snakes. They’ll take care of the rest.
• Preventative measures: Keep your yard tidy and free of anything that might attract snakes. Think overgrown grass, piles of leaves, or that old pile of wood you’ve been meaning to chop up.

Snake in the Home

Finding a snake in your home can be startling, but it’s important to remember that most snakes in Maine are harmless. Here’s what you can do if you encounter a slithery guest in your house:

1. Remain calm: Snakes would rather avoid you than tangle with you. They’re likely more scared of you than you’re of them.

2. Gently encourage the snake to leave: Open a door or window to give the snake an escape route. You can also use a wastebasket or similar container to carefully confine the snake until a professional can remove it.

3. Call animal control if needed: If the snake refuses to leave or you’re unsure about its species, contact animal control for assistance. They can help identify and remove the snake safely.

Preventing Snake Encounters

Now that you know what to do if you encounter a snake, let’s talk about how to prevent those encounters in the first place. Here are some tips to make your yard less inviting to snakes:

Creating a Snake-Free Zone

If you’re not a snake enthusiast and want to keep these slithery creatures at bay, here are some tips to create a snake-free zone in your yard:

• Keep your lawn short: Snakes love long grass for hiding and moving around unnoticed. A well-manicured lawn takes away their cover.
• Avoid overwatering: Excess water attracts worms, slugs, and frogs, creating a smorgasbord for snakes.
• Trim trees and shrubs: Keep branches off the ground to prevent snakes from using them as superhighways into your yard.
• Remove bird feeders: As much as birds are a beautiful sight, bird feeders attract rodents, which then become a tasty treat for snakes.
• Feed pets indoors: Outdoor pet food is like a neon sign for rodents, and you know who loves rodents? Snakes!

Staying Safe and Respectful

If you do come across a snake in Maine, remember these tips:

• Leave snakes alone. Most snakes in Maine won’t harm you and will slither off if given the chance.
• Identify the species. If you can do it safely, try to figure out what type of snake it’s to know if it’s venomous.
• Call animal control for venomous snakes. If you spot a venomous snake, keep your distance, and call the pros.
• Stay calm if a snake enters your home. Gently guide it out or confine it until help arrives.
• Prevention is key. A tidy yard with fewer attractants means fewer snakes.

Benefits of Snakes in Maine

Sure, snakes can be scary, but did you know they play a key role in Maine’s ecosystem? These slithery creatures are actually more helpful than harmful. Let’s explore the surprising benefits of snakes and why they deserve our respect.

Snakes Are Beneficial

You might be wondering why you should care about snakes at all.

Well, these slithery creatures play a big part in keeping our ecosystem healthy.

Snakes are natural pest controllers, keeping the population of rodents and other pests in check.

So, while they may not be your favorite critters, they’re doing you a favor by reducing the chances of a rodent infestation in your yard.

It’s all about balance!

Most Maine Snakes Are Harmless

If you’re worried about venomous snakes in Maine, rest easy.

The state is one of only three in the US with no venomous snakes, a unique feature of Maine’s wildlife. So, the chances of encountering a dangerous snake are slim.

Even if you do come across a snake, most bites in Maine are from non-venomous snakes and aren’t harmful.

Keep in mind that snakes would rather flee than fight, so give them space and respect their role in the ecosystem.

Coexistence is Possible

You might be wondering how to keep these slithery creatures at bay.

Well, you’ll be glad to know that peaceful coexistence with snakes is totally doable.

By understanding their behavior and taking some simple preventative measures, you can reduce the chances of finding snakes in your yard or home.

It’s all about creating a harmonious balance between respecting their natural role and maintaining your personal comfort.

Respect Their Role in the Ecosystem

Snakes are an integral part of Maine’s natural balance. They’re nature’s pest controllers, keeping rodent and frog populations in check. That’s something to appreciate, especially if you’re not a fan of mice or bugs!

With no venomous snakes in Maine, these slithery creatures are more likely to flee than attack. They’re just as scared of us as we’re of them, so let’s give them their space and respect their role in the ecosystem.

Learn More About Snakes

Snakes get a bad rap, but they’re actually pretty fascinating creatures.

They play an important role in controlling rodent and pest populations, and most of the snakes you’ll find in Maine are totally harmless.

Maine’s Unique Snake-Free Status

You might be surprised to learn that Maine is one of only three states in the US with no venomous snakes. That’s right, Hawaii and Alaska are the only other two states that can claim this unique status. So, if you’re curious about snakes but want to stay safe, Maine’s the place to be.

No Venomous Snakes in Maine

You might be surprised to learn that Maine is one of only three states in the US with no venomous snakes. That’s right—Hawaii and Alaska are the only other two states that can claim this unique status. So, if you’re planning a hike or a camping trip in Maine, you can rest assured that you won’t encounter any venomous snakes slithering around.

While snakes in Maine are generally docile and prefer to flee rather than attack, it’s still important to respect their space and avoid unnecessary interactions. After all, even a non-venomous snake bite isn’t something you’d want to experience!

Snake Bites in Maine

Snake bites in Maine are typically nothing to worry about. The state is one of only three in the US with no venomous snakes, so you’re safe from any dangerous encounters. Most snakes in Maine are docile and would rather flee than attack. If you do get bitten, it’s most likely a non-venomous snake, and the bite won’t be harmful.

Comparing Snake Bites Across the US

Now, let’s zoom out and compare snake bites in Maine to the rest of the US. This will give you a broader perspective on the topic and highlight Maine’s unique position.

North Carolina takes the lead with the highest snake bite rate, clocking in at 157.8 bites per million people each year. Following closely behind are West Virginia, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Virginia, and Texas. These top six states are hot spots for reported snake bites.

Interestingly, North Carolina is home to six venomous snake species, including copperheads, cottonmouths, and rattlesnakes.

Safety of Observing Snakes in Maine

Maine offers a unique opportunity for snake enthusiasts and nature observers.

With no venomous snakes slithering around, Maine is one of only three states where you can safely observe these fascinating creatures in the wild without worrying about deadly bites.

So, if you’re curious about snakes, grab your binoculars and head out to explore Maine’s diverse habitats, from its lush forests to its serene wetlands.

Just remember to keep a respectful distance and admire these scaly creatures from a safe space.

Beyond Snakes in Maine

While snakes are an intriguing part of Maine’s wildlife, the state has more to offer when it comes to fascinating creatures. From majestic moose to the intriguing wolf spiders, there’s a whole world beyond snakes waiting to be explored. So, let’s venture into the diverse ecosystems of Maine and discover the other wildlife encounters that await you.

Moose in Maine

While snakes are fascinating creatures, they’re not the only wildlife you might encounter in Maine.

If you’re exploring the great outdoors, you might come across the majestic moose.

These giants are the largest deer species in the state and, thankfully, they’re generally not aggressive toward humans.

Wolf Spiders in Maine

Wolf spiders are large arachnids with brown and black stripes. They’re found in Maine, but they’re not venomous. While they can bite, their bites aren’t dangerous and only cause minor irritation.

Other Wildlife Encounters in Maine

While snakes are the focus of this guide, let’s not forget about the other fascinating wildlife encounters Maine has to offer. Here are some highlights:

1. Moose: These majestic creatures are the largest deer species in Maine and, thankfully, are typically not aggressive toward humans.
2. Wolf Spiders: While their name might sound intimidating, these large, brown and black striped arachnids aren’t venomous. Their bites are harmless and cause only minor irritation.
3. Lumbering Black Bears: Keep your distance from these furry foragers, as they can be protective of their food sources.
4. Whales and Dolphins: Off the coast, you might be lucky enough to spot these majestic marine mammals. Remember to give them space and avoid disturbing their natural habitats.

Respecting Wildlife in Maine

Respecting wildlife is key to enjoying Maine’s natural wonders.

Beyond snakes, Maine is home to an array of fascinating creatures, including the majestic moose and the intriguing wolf spider.

This helps keep you safe and respects the natural habitats and behaviors of these creatures.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)