When you think about where poisonous snakes live, you can imagine tropical climates or desert areas across the country. Not many people would associate seemingly innocent woodlands and wooded areas in Indiana as homes for poisonous snakes. But the truth is that of the 39 species of snakes found in Indiana, there are 4 species that are poisonous. Read on to find out which ones!

The water moccasin Agkistrodon piscivorus

Also known as Eastern Cottonmouths, water moccasins are a poisonous subspecies of pitviper that can lead to a painful and life-threatening bite. The bites are treated with an anti-venom serum called CroFab. Although generally not fatal, its cytotoxic venom can cause severe scarring, tissue deterioration, and possible amputation. They are the only semi-aquatic snake species in the world, usually living in or near marches, slow-moving streams, and lake areas. Most cottonmouths live in warmer regions, so you are unlikely to see one in the north. But a small population is known to exist near Indiana’s southern border. Although their patterns often mistake them for common water snakes, you can distinguish a water moccasin because it shows a distinguishable internal white mouth when agitated or upset.

The copperhead of the north Agkistrodon contortrix mokasen

The northern copperhead is also a subspecies of pitviper and the most common venomous snake in Indiana. It has a long list of nicknames, including resident copperhead, mountain moccasin, copper viper, copperhead moccasin, North American copperhead, and mountain moccasin. Its venom, however, is not as strong as its pitviper relative, the water moccasin, but it is still painful and potentially fatal. Although these snakes are very quiet, lethargic, and often immobile, they will attack quickly if agitated. The same serum that is used to treat Moccasin bites is used to treat Northern Copperhead bites. They live near rocky areas, wooded areas, old sheds, and barns.

The Massasauga rattlesnake Sistrurus catenatus

This pitviper is small and endangered, but it is still very poisonous. They are only found in northern parts of Indiana, living in swampy, swampy, or woodland and field areas. Also called a “swamp rattlesnake,” this snake is mild-mannered and rarely bites and most often attacks as a result of being trampled. Like the water moccasin, its venom is also a cytotoxic poison. It can destroy tissues and interrupt blood flow.

The Timber Rattlesnake Crotalus horridus

Another endangered species of venomous viper, the timber rattlesnake is often found living in dry deciduous forests and hillsides surrounding rugged terrain. Unfortunately for hoosiers, the timber rattlesnake is among the most dangerous in the country. This is because they are large in size, extremely poisonous, and have long fangs. Its venom is neurotoxic, hemorrhagic, and proteolytic.

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