Poisonous Snakes of Illinois
Overview of Poisonous Snakes In Illinois
Illinois is home to four species of poisonous snakes. These include the Timber Rattlesnake, Massasauga Rattlesnake, Copperhead and Cottonmouth. All four species of poisonous snakes in Illinois live in the Southern and Central parts of the state. They typically inhabit wooded areas, rocky hillsides, and other areas with concealment.
Timber Rattlesnake
The Timber Rattlesnake is a large, heavy-bodied snake that can reach lengths of up to 4 feet. It is usually gray or tan in color with a diamond-shaped pattern on its back. The Timber Rattlesnake is found in rocky hillsides, wooded areas, and wetlands in the Southern and Central parts of Illinois. It is a shy snake that tries to avoid humans, but it will defend itself if it feels threatened. The Timber Rattlesnake can deliver a painful and potentially deadly bite if it feels threatened.
Massasauga Rattlesnake
The Massasauga Rattlesnake is a small to medium-sized snake that grows to a maximum length of 2.5 feet. It is gray or tan in color with a dark brown or black blotched pattern on its back. The Massasauga Rattlesnake is found in wetlands, wooded areas, and grassy fields in the Southern and Central parts of Illinois. It is a shy snake that prefers to avoid contact with humans, but it will defend itself if it feels threatened. The Massasauga Rattlesnake can deliver a painful and potentially deadly bite if it feels threatened.
Copperhead
The Copperhead is a medium-sized snake that grows to a maximum length of 3 feet. It is usually tan, yellow or reddish-brown in color with a pattern of dark brown or black bands across its back. The Copperhead is found in rocky hillsides, wooded areas, and wetlands in the Southern and Central parts of Illinois. It is a shy snake that prefers to avoid contact with humans, but it will defend itself if it feels threatened. The Copperhead can deliver a painful and potentially deadly bite if it feels threatened.
Cottonmouth
The Cottonmouth is a large, heavy-bodied snake that can reach lengths of up to 5 feet. It is usually black or dark brown in color with a pattern of dark brown or black bands across its back. The Cottonmouth is found in wetlands, wooded areas, and grassy fields in the Southern and Central parts of Illinois. It is an aggressive snake that will defend itself if it feels threatened. The Cottonmouth can deliver a painful and potentially deadly bite if it feels threatened.
How to Avoid Poisonous Snakes in Illinois
The best way to avoid poisonous snakes in Illinois is to be aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking through tall grass, thick brush, and other areas where snakes may be hiding. When hiking or camping in Illinois, wear protective clothing such as long pants and boots. Stay on marked trails and avoid areas with loose rocks and logs, which snakes may be hiding under. If you see a snake, do not approach it and give it plenty of space.
Conclusion
Illinois is home to four species of poisonous snakes: the Timber Rattlesnake, Massasauga Rattlesnake, Copperhead and Cottonmouth. All four species of poisonous snakes in Illinois live in the Southern and Central parts of the state. The best way to avoid poisonous snakes in Illinois is to be aware of your surroundings and to wear protective clothing such as long pants and boots when hiking or camping.