Snakes in Louisiana: Identification Guide
Identify venomous and non-venomous snakes in Louisiana with this guide. Plus, find snake-themed t-shirts for fans.
The Short Answer: Louisiana has over 40 snake species. Venomous ones include the Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake, Cottonmouth, and Coral Snake. Non-venomous ones include Rat Snakes and Garter Snakes. Look at head shape (triangular for pit vipers), pupil shape (elliptical for venomous), and color patterns. Keep a safe distance.
What are the most common snakes in Louisiana?
The most common non-venomous snakes are the Gray Rat Snake, Texas Rat Snake, and Eastern Garter Snake. Common venomous ones are the Western Cottonmouth, Eastern Copperhead, and Timber Rattlesnake. Rat snakes are often found in barns and trees, while cottonmouths prefer water.
Which snakes in Louisiana are venomous?
Seven species of venomous snakes live in Louisiana: Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake, Timber Rattlesnake, Western Pygmy Rattlesnake, Eastern Copperhead, Northern Cottonmouth, Western Cottonmouth, and Texas Coral Snake. The coral snake has red, yellow, and black bands with red touching yellow.
How can you tell a venomous snake from a non-venomous one?
Check the head shape: pit vipers (rattlesnakes, copperheads, cottonmouths) have triangular, broad heads. Pupils: venomous snakes (except coral snakes) have elliptical (cat-like) pupils; non-venomous have round pupils. Color patterns: coral snakes have red-yellow-black bands; non-venomous mimics have red-black bands. Always use a field guide.
What should you do if you encounter a snake in Louisiana?
Stop and back away slowly. Do not try to handle or kill the snake. Most bites happen when people try to move snakes. If bitten, seek medical help immediately. Learn to identify by sight, not by holding. For more on safety, check out Louisiana snake safety tips.
Where can you find snake-themed apparel and gifts?
Show your interest in snakes with our collection of snake t-shirts. Whether you like realistic rattlesnake graphics or funny cobra designs, we have something for every snake fan. Browse our snake t-shirts and find your favorite.
Comparison of Snake T-Shirts
| Product Name | Price |
|---|---|
| Rattlesnake Graphic T-Shirt | $16.99 |
| Green Viper Snake T-Shirt | $26.95 |
| Retro Cute Snake T-Shirt | $12.99 |
| Snake T-Shirt | $26.95 |
| Funny Snake T-Shirt | $21.79 |
| Just A Boy Who Loves Snakes T-Shirt | $9.99 |
| Men's Snake T-Shirt | $19.30 |
| Snake Shirt. Snake Lover Gift. Snake T-Shirt. | $16.93 |
| Funny Cobra Lover King Snake Cobra T-Shirt | $13.38 |
| Cobra Gift Venomous Reptile Accessories & Stuff Funny Cobra Design | $18.69 |
| Motor City DesignWorx Vintage Distressed King Cobra Power Snake Muscle Car Karate T-Shirt | $14.99 |
| Urban Empyre Cobra Snake x King Cobra Snake Serpent T-Shirt | $13.49 |
| King Cobra Vintage Snake Gifts King Cobra Groovy Vintage Snake T-Shirt | $19.99 |
| Mara Closet Vintage Snake Japanese Style King Cobra T-Shirt | $15.95 |
| Magical and Funny Snake lover Gifts King Cobra Snake T-Shirt | $14.44 |
Rattlesnake Graphic T-Shirt
This shirt features a bold rattlesnake design perfect for showing your appreciation for these iconic venomous snakes. It's a great conversation starter for outdoor trips and wildlife talks. The print is durable and the fabric is comfortable.
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Green Viper Snake T-Shirt
A vibrant green viper graphic that stands out. This shirt uses quality materials and the viper design is detailed and eye-catching. Great for herpetology fans.
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Retro Cute Snake T-Shirt
A fun, retro-style design with a cute snake. This affordable tee is perfect for kids or anyone who likes a less intimidating snake look. The colors are soft and the fit is relaxed.
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Snake T-Shirt
A classic snake graphic tee with a simple but strong design. It works for casual wear and shows off your interest in reptiles. The fabric is soft and the print lasts.
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Funny Snake T-Shirt
This shirt adds humor to snake apparel with a witty design. It's a great gift for snake owners who appreciate a laugh. The print is clear and the shirt is comfortable.
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Just A Boy Who Loves Snakes T-Shirt
Perfect for young snake fans, this shirt features a cute snake graphic and the phrase "Just A Boy Who Loves Snakes." It's lightweight and great for everyday wear.
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Men's Snake T-Shirt
This shirt says "It's Venomous not Poisonous" making it a fun educational piece. The black color and bold text stand out. It's designed for snake owners who want to show their exotic pet pride.
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Snake Shirt. Snake Lover Gift. Snake T-Shirt. Snake Owner Gift. Snake Lover Shirt. Reptile Lover Shirt. Snake Apparel. Snake Theme #OS5638
A versatile snake-themed shirt suitable for any snake lover. The design is simple but recognizable. It makes a thoughtful gift for anyone who keeps snakes or enjoys herpetology.
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Funny Cobra Lover King Snake Cobra T-Shirt
A humorous cobra design for those who love king cobras. The shirt is comfortable and the print is vibrant. Great for snake fans with a sense of humor.
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Cobra Gift Venomous Reptile Accessories & Stuff Funny Cobra Design for Men Women Kids King Snake Cobra Lover T-Shirt OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100
This shirt is OEKO-TEX certified, meaning it's tested for harmful substances. The funny cobra design appeals to all ages. It's a safe and fun gift for snake lovers.
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Motor City DesignWorx Vintage Distressed King Cobra Power Snake Muscle Car Karate T-Shirt OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100
A vintage-style shirt combining king cobra imagery with muscle car and karate themes. The distressed look adds character. Made with quality materials and OEKO-TEX certified.
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Urban Empyre Cobra Snake x King Cobra Snake Serpent T-Shirt
A modern design featuring a king cobra in an urban style. The graphic is large and detailed. This shirt fits well and the fabric is soft.
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King Cobra Vintage Snake Gifts King Cobra Groovy Vintage Snake T-Shirt
A groovy vintage design with a king cobra. It's a great choice for retro lovers. The print is fade-resistant and the shirt is comfortable.
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Mara Closet Vintage Snake Japanese Style King Cobra T-Shirt
Japanese-style art featuring a king cobra. The design is unique and eye-catching. This shirt is ideal for those who appreciate traditional art with a reptilian twist.
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Magical and Funny Snake lover Gifts King Cobra Snake T-Shirt
A magical and funny design for king cobra fans. The shirt is soft and the print is vibrant. Makes a great gift for anyone who loves snakes with a sense of wonder.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most venomous snake in Louisiana? The Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake is considered the most venomous due to its large size and high venom yield. The Texas Coral Snake also has potent neurotoxic venom.
Are there water moccasins in Louisiana? Yes, the Northern Cottonmouth and Western Cottonmouth (water moccasins) are common in Louisiana's wetlands and waterways.
How to identify a coral snake in Louisiana? Coral snakes have red, yellow, and black bands with red touching yellow. Remember "red touch yellow, kill a fellow; red touch black, venom lack."
What non-venomous snakes look like venomous ones in Louisiana? Scarlet Kingsnakes and Milk Snakes mimic coral snakes but have red touching black bands.
For more identification tips, visit our Louisiana wildlife identification page. And don't forget to check out our full snake apparel collection for great gifts.