The Top Four Largest (And Most Dangerous) Snakes In Florida
For this list, we are going for size first, and dangerous venom second. But do not let these snakes from the Sunshine State fool you, size does not always dictate how dangerous they are! In fact, the largest venomous snake in Florida even has a lookalike that is not even venomous. This imposter snake is so good at acting like a dangerous species that some call it the “Prima Donna” of the snake world!
4. The Eastern/Southern Copperhead
The copperhead is named for its overall reddish-brown coloring and can be identified by the brown hourglass markings over the body. Copperheads are pit vipers, with characteristic triangular heads and slitted, catlike pupils. This species is nocturnal but is significantly more active in the fall and spring. Due to its unique color and pattern, the copperhead is a master of camouflaging itself. In Florida, this species is only found in the Panhandle region.
3. The Cottonmouth (Water Moccasin)
The cottonmouth can be identified by its reddish-brown coloring with black banding when it is young but may darken to grey or black with age. This species also has a spade-shaped head, unlike other species of water moccasins. Cottonmouths are found throughout the state of Florida, along with multiple water moccasin lookalikes. However, as the cottonmouth is particularly aggressive, one should not waste time identifying them!
2. The Timber Rattlesnake
Timber rattlesnakes are a yellowish-grey color over the body with brown or black arrow-shaped markings and one long reddish-brown stripe down the whole body. This pit viper is docile and is more prone to stay still and wait for you to leave than strike. However, remember what we said about this snake’s venom! While this is the second-largest snake found in Florida, it is a rare snake to see in this state. When spotted, it is more common in northern Florida.
1. The Southern/Eastern Diamondback
The largest (and most dangerous) snake in Florida is the southern/eastern diamondback rattlesnake which is brown with a signature darker brown diamond pattern bordered in yellow down the back. This species can also be identified by its distinct black face markings. The diamondback is found throughout all of Florida and is the largest venomous snake in the United States. Due to its sheer speed and impressive striking distance, it is also considered the deadliest. Thankfully, the diamondback gives you plenty of warning beforehand, and backing away slowly will save you that deadly bite!
The Diamondback Imposter: The Eastern Hognose
The eastern hognosed snake’s evolutionary claim to fame is simple. It evolved to look like one of the deadliest venomous snakes in the United States! This great imposter is often mistaken for the diamondback rattlesnake, due to its yellow and brown markings. But while any snake bite will hurt, the eastern hognose has no venom. The hognose species of snakes are easy to identify by their narrow heads and upturned and pointed “hoglike” snouts. This species is well-known for its theatrics as well! From flattening their heads to look like cobras or pretending to be dead to deter predators, they will do anything to mimic a dangerous snake. They are not deadly, but they sure are entertaining!
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