Snakes have elongated scaly bodies without limbs,
eyelids, or external ear openings. They grow throughout their
lives, shedding their skin several times each year. All snakes are predators, feeding on everything from
insects and amphibians to birds and mammals. Their flicking, forked
tongues serve as an organ of smell, collecting information on possible
prey or dangers.
Most snakes lay eggs, although a few give birth to
live young. Florida snakes usually mate in the fall, laying eggs
from April to July that hatch from July to September. During the
winter months, most snakes from northern to central Florida become
dormant. Aquatic snakes often bask in the sun to raise their body
temperature.
Most snakes are harmless to humans; however, Florida
is home to several poisonous snakes. These include the Eastern
Diamond Rattlesnake, Pygmy Rattlesnake, Eastern Coral Snake, and the
Cottonmouth. In Florida's northern counties, one may find the
Copperhead and the Timber Rattlesnake.
Non-Poisonous Snakes
Mud Snake (Eastern Mud
Snake)
Garter Snakes
(Eastern Garter Snake)
Rat Snakes (Red Rat
Snake, Yellow Rat Snake)
Racers
(Southern Black Racer)
Ribbon Snakes (Penisula
Ribbon Snake)
Ringneck Snakes
(Southern Ringneck)
Water Snakes (Forida Water
Snake)
