what is garden snake look like around philadelphia pa

2 min read 22-12-2024

what is garden snake look like around philadelphia pa

What Do Garden Snakes Look Like Around Philadelphia, PA?

Meta Description: Discover the common garden snakes found near Philadelphia, PA! Learn to identify them by their size, color patterns, and key features. This guide includes images and helpful tips for safe snake identification. Perfect for gardeners and nature enthusiasts!

Title Tag: Garden Snakes Near Philadelphia: Identification Guide

Identifying Garden Snakes in the Philadelphia Area

Philadelphia and its surrounding areas are home to several non-venomous snake species often mistaken for more dangerous varieties. Understanding their appearance is crucial for peaceful coexistence and avoiding unnecessary fear. This guide focuses on common garden snakes.

Common Garden Snake Species Around Philadelphia

Several snake species are commonly found in gardens and yards across the Philadelphia region. The most frequent are:

1. Northern Black Racer ( Coluber constrictor )

Appearance: These snakes are typically shiny black or dark brown, though juveniles may have lighter markings. They are slender and long, reaching lengths of 4-5 feet. They have smooth scales and a distinctive pointed head.
Habitat: They prefer open fields, meadows, and edges of woodlands – often near gardens.
Image: [Insert image of Northern Black Racer]

2. Eastern Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis)

Appearance: Garter snakes are highly variable in coloration, but often display three longitudinal stripes (two dorsolateral and one vertebral) on a background of olive, brown, or black. They are relatively slender and grow to 2-3 feet in length.
Habitat: They are incredibly adaptable and found near water sources, in meadows, and even within urban areas. Gardens are a common habitat.
Image: [Insert image of Eastern Garter Snake]

3. Smooth Green Snake (Opheodrys vernalis)

Appearance: This snake is uniformly bright green, making it easily identifiable. It is small and slender, reaching lengths of only 10-18 inches. It has smooth scales and a relatively small head.
Habitat: They prefer moist meadows, fields, and areas with dense vegetation, occasionally found near gardens.
Image: [Insert image of Smooth Green Snake]

4. DeKay's Brown Snake (Storeria dekayi)

Appearance: These snakes are usually a uniform brownish or grayish color. They have a relatively small size, only reaching about 10-14 inches in length. They are often confused with other small brown snakes.
Habitat: They prefer moist habitats and often live under rocks, logs, and leaf litter – sometimes found in gardens.
Image: [Insert image of DeKay's Brown Snake]

Key Features to Look For

When identifying snakes, note these key characteristics:

Size and Shape: Measure the snake’s length (if possible from a safe distance). Note the body shape (slender, robust).
Color and Pattern: Describe the base color and any stripes, spots, or markings. Take pictures if possible.
Head Shape: Observe the shape of the head (round, triangular). A triangular head can indicate a venomous snake (though this is not definitive).
Scales: Note if the scales are smooth or keeled (ridged).

If You Encounter a Snake

Remain Calm: Most garden snakes are harmless and will flee if given the opportunity.
Observe from a Distance: Admire the snake from a safe distance, avoiding sudden movements.
Do Not Attempt to Handle: Even harmless snakes can bite if frightened or provoked.
Provide Space: Allow the snake to move away naturally.

Resources for Further Identification

Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission: [Link to relevant page]
The Herpetological Society of Pennsylvania: [Link to relevant page]

This guide provides a basic overview of common garden snakes found in the Philadelphia area. Remember, accurate identification requires careful observation and sometimes expert assistance. If you're unsure about a snake’s identification, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and maintain a safe distance.