Snakes are an inherent part of the landscape in New Orleans, driven by the region’s distinct geography. Situated in a low-lying area surrounded by the Mississippi River, coastal marshes, and expansive bayous, the city provides an ideal habitat for numerous reptile species. This unique environment, characterized by abundant water and dense vegetation, ensures that snakes are present throughout the greater metropolitan area. Understanding the types of snakes that inhabit this humid, subtropical setting and knowing how to interact with them is a practical necessity for residents and visitors.
The Presence of Snakes in Urban Environments
The presence of snakes within New Orleans’ city limits is directly linked to the warm, humid climate and the extensive network of water systems. The city’s sprawl has encroached upon natural wetlands, but the remnants of these habitats—including drainage canals, ditches, and overgrown lots—still function as corridors for wildlife. These water sources provide a consistent food supply of frogs, rodents, and other small animals, which attracts snakes.
The dense urban environment also offers a surprising number of sheltered locations where reptiles can thrive. Snakes frequently seek refuge in areas that provide cover and insulation, such as under elevated houses, within piles of lumber or yard debris, and in the spaces beneath concrete slabs. The year-round mild temperatures in southern Louisiana mean snakes remain active for most of the year, making encounters possible in residential yards and parks, especially where human development meets natural, unmanaged terrain.
Identifying Common Non-Venomous Species
Most of the snakes encountered in New Orleans are harmless species that serve a beneficial function in controlling rodent populations. The Western Rat Snake, a common constrictor, can grow quite long, often reaching five to six feet, and is typically dark brown or black, though juveniles may exhibit a blotchy pattern. Another frequent sight is the Speckled Kingsnake, a robust snake with a dark body covered in small yellow or white spots, which is known for eating other snakes, including venomous ones.
Many non-venomous Water Snakes, such as the Banded Water Snake or Diamondback Water Snake, are mistakenly identified as the venomous Cottonmouth because they are heavy-bodied and spend time in the water. True Water Snakes, however, have round pupils and their heads are not significantly wider than their neck, unlike the pit vipers. When threatened, these Water Snakes may flatten their heads defensively, which can temporarily give them a wider, more triangular appearance, adding to the confusion.
The Venomous Threats of the Region
The greater New Orleans area is home to several types of venomous snakes, with the Northern Cottonmouth and the Eastern Copperhead being the most likely to be encountered near developed areas. The Cottonmouth (Agkistrodon piscivorus), also known as the Water Moccasin, is a stout-bodied pit viper that frequents swamps, bayous, and the edges of ponds and canals. Adults are typically dark olive, brown, or black, and may display dark crossbands, but its most telling characteristic is showing the bright white lining of its mouth when threatened, which gives it its common name.
The Eastern Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix) has a light tan or brownish body overlaid with dark, reddish-brown crossbands that narrow along the center of the back, creating a distinctive hourglass pattern. Copperheads are more terrestrial than Cottonmouths, favoring wooded areas, rocky hillsides, and forested stream margins, though they can be found in suburban leaf litter or wood piles. Both species are classified as pit vipers, possessing heat-sensing pits located between the eye and the nostril, and typically having elliptical pupils.
Encounter Safety and Coexistence
Maintaining a safe distance is the most reliable way to prevent negative interactions, as snakes only strike if they feel cornered or threatened. If a snake is encountered, remain still and then slowly back away, allowing the reptile an unblocked path to retreat. Never attempt to handle, capture, or harm a snake, even if it appears non-venomous or injured, as this is when most bites occur.
Residents can minimize the attraction of snakes to their property by eliminating potential hiding spots and food sources. This includes keeping the lawn closely mowed, trimming dense shrubbery, and removing accumulations of leaf litter, woodpiles, or construction debris. If a snake is found inside a home or in a public area where it poses a direct risk, contact local animal control or a professional wildlife removal service for safe relocation.