![]() It is listed as ENDANGERED by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and is protected by law in the state. Indiscriminate killing of snakes has also been a problem in local areas. It has been found only in the southern third of the Lower Peninsula. Wetlands drainage and development in preferred habitat has limited distribution to only a few small populations. Habitat for the copper-bellied water snake has declined dramatically. Fish and Wildlife Service as a nationally "threatened" species. It has also recently been listed by the U. Its population is so low that it is listed as an "endangered" species in Michigan. This snake is extremely rare in Michigan. Range and Status: The snake can be found throughout the Lower Peninsula, and is locally common where suitable wetland habitat exists.Ĭopper-bellied Water Snake (Nerodia erythrogaster neglecta) The head is black, though the scales above and below the mouth are white. Northern Ribbon Snake (Thamnophis sauritus septentrionalis)ĭescription: A very slender black or brown snake with three bright yellow or white stripes down the back. ![]() They inhabit both peninsulas and survive even in urban areas. Range and Status: This species is the most common Michigan snake. The belly is pale white, green, or yellow. Most are gray, brown, or greenish with three yellowish stripes down the back, and there may be black spots between the stripes, making the snake look "checkered". Eastern Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis)ĭescription: A medium sized striped snake with variable coloration. Range and Status: This species is locally common in the eastern and southern Lower Peninsula. Some specimens have dark spots between the stripes. They are listed as a "species of special concern" by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, and are protected by state law.īutler's Garter Snake (Thamnophis butleri)ĭescription: A small black, brown, or olive snake with three distinct yellow stripes down the back and a yellowish belly. Range and Status: Gray Rat Snakes occur in the southern half of the Lower Peninsula, but are rare and declining. Young rat snakes are patterned with dark blotches on a gray background, and traces of this juvenile coloration are often visible in adult specimens. To celebrate World Snake Day on July 16, here are some of the snakes you can find around Michigan: Gray Rat Snake (Elaphe obsoleta obsoleta)ĭescription: A large shiny black snake with a white chin and throat. Related: 11 invasive species to watch out for in Michigan ![]() Snakes do not chase, attack, or otherwise, approach humans. Snakes are fascinating members of Michigan’s wildlife community that, if given the chance, will avoid contact with humans. Snakes are one of the most misunderstood and feared of all animals in Michigan. ![]() Related: Venomous brown recluse spider found in 10 Michigan counties Seventeen of these species are non-venomous, with the only venomous snake being the Easter Massasauga Rattlesnake. Snakes can survive in a variety of habitats such as forests, grasslands, lakes, rivers, marshes, farms, and cities. In Michigan, about 18 species of snakes are found and they are actually very important to our ecosystem. ![]()
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