As things begin to warm, and boy is it getting warm this week, creatures are emerging from winter hibernation. One of those things some of us have a concern of: snakes! Or lovingly named, danger noodles, nope ropes, whatever you'd like to use. Here is a quick guide to identifying a snake that can harm you versus one that won't.

First off, here is a list of venomous snakes of the Midwest and the general areas where they reside.

Water Moccassin: Illinois, Indiana
Copperhead: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa
Prairie Rattlesnake: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa
Timber Rattlesnake: Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin
Massasauga Rattlesnake: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin

Sorry Illinois.

Here are some KEY features to look for when identifying a venomous snake versus non-venomous:

Venomous -- Non-Venomous
Pointy Nose -- Round Nose
Elliptical Eyes -- Round Eyes
Broadhead, skinny neck -- Triangular head that tapers to the body

When approaching any snake, whether on purpose or by accident, look carefully for head position. The snakes head may be up like it's going to lunge, but this is only the case if the head is flattened out, making the head look large. If the head is up but does not flatten, and/or you do not hear a rattling of the tail (even non-rattlers seem to try and mimic a rattlesnake!), the snake is in a non-defensive position.

Can you identify the common snakes you've come across? Our community has already come across several! Hopefully this short guide will help you have knowledge while on the trails. Stay safe!

Links: https://dnr.wi.gov/topic/WildlifeHabitat/herps.asp?mode=table&group=Snakes

https://www.uwsp.edu/cnr-ap/UWEXLakes/Documents/programs/convention/2019/FR-Session7/AlyssaHoekstra_SnakesofWisconsin.pdf

https://owlcation.com/stem/VenomousMidwestReptiles

Snakes on the Trails