Snakes of Missouri

Summer is snake season in Missouri. Missouri is home to 47 different species of snakes. Although they can be spotted during the day, snakes do most of their moving around at night. These snakes are good for Missouri’s natural environment, but we do not want them in or around our homes. A B Pest Control has all the information you need to know about the most common snakes in Missouri.

Venomous and Nonvenomous Snakes in Missouri

There are many different kinds of snakes that call Missouri and the Lake of the Ozarks home. Luckily, only 5 of them are venomous: the copperhead, cottonmouth (also known as water moccasins), western pygmy rattlesnake, massasauga rattlesnake, and timber rattlesnake.  All of these snakes are members of the pit viper family. They have a pit located between the eye and nostril on each side of the head, as well as well-developed fangs. Pupils of snakes are an easy way to tell if they are venomous or not. Vertical slits within the iris indicate the snake is venomous, while round pupils specify a nonvenomous snake. A triangle shaped head can also mean the snake is venomous, although you should not rely solely on this method. Many harmless species, such as water snakes, garter snakes and hog-nosed snakes, can flatten their head, which causes them to appear triangular.

Water Snakes at the Lake of the Ozarks

Just because you see a snake in or near water, it doesn’t mean it is a cottonmouth. Although they do reside at the Lake of the Ozarks, their locations are spotty. They normally are found in cool, spring-fed creeks and small rivers. The snake's behavior can help you identify if you have spotted a cottonmouth or not. While in the water, cottonmouths tend to swim with their heads held high, making their backs protrude above the surface of the water. If cottonmouths feel threatened, they will open their jaws wide, displaying the white lining of their mouths. No other snake does this action.

Why Snakes Are Important to Missouri

Snakes play an important role in controlling rodent populations. They also serve as a food source for other wildlife, such as hawks, owls, mink, skunks and herons. Whether the snake you spot is a venomous snake or not, they both are an important part of the Lake of the Ozarks’ and Missouri’s wildlife community and have a vital role in the ecosystem. Snakes are protected by Missouri’s Wildlife Code, and while they can evoke fear in those who encounter them, it is unlawful to kill, harm or harass them.

Keep Snakes Out with A B Pest Control and Insulation

Although snakes play an important role in the wild, we do not want them in our homes. If you encounter any unwanted snakes, call A B Pest Control and Insulation. Your Lake of the Ozarks’ pest control company can safely remove snakes from your home. Let A B Pest Control help you keep your home pest free this summer with the best pest control services at the Lake of the Ozarks.

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