Snakes in Louisiana
Here are common snakes found in Louisiana, including 4 venomous species to watch for. Tap any snake for a full identification profile.
Venomous snakes in Louisiana
VenomousEastern Diamondback Rattlesnake
Crotalus adamanteus
The largest venomous snake in North America and arguably the most dangerous. Its hemotoxic venom destroys tissue and blood cells, and a defensive bite is a medical emergency.
VenomousCottonmouth (Water Moccasin)
Agkistrodon piscivorus
A semi-aquatic pit viper named for the white interior of its mouth, which it gapes as a warning. The only venomous water snake in North America.
VenomousEastern Coral Snake
Micrurus fulvius
A relative of cobras with potent neurotoxic venom. Famous for the rhyme 'red touches yellow, kill a fellow' that separates it from harmless mimics.
VenomousPygmy Rattlesnake
Sistrurus miliarius
A small but venomous pit viper with a rattle so tiny it sounds like a buzzing insect. Bites are painful but rarely life-threatening due to the small venom yield.
Harmless snakes in Louisiana
Identifying snakes in Louisiana
Knowing your location is one of the most powerful tools in snake identification. Many snakes look similar, but the species actually present in Louisiana narrows the possibilities dramatically. When you use our snake identifier, factor in your state to boost confidence — and if you ever spot a snake you can't identify, treat it as potentially dangerous and keep your distance.