The Most Common Snakes Found in Lexington, Kentucky
Lexington, Kentucky, located in the heart of the Bluegrass State, is known for its beautiful landscapes and diverse wildlife. One aspect of this wildlife that often comes into contact with residents is snakes. As a wildlife control professional, we have encountered numerous snake species in Lexington. In this article, we will explore the most common snakes found in this area, providing a detailed description for each.
The Eastern Copperhead
The Eastern Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix) is a venomous snake that can be found in Lexington, Kentucky. This species is known for its distinctive copper-colored head and hourglass-shaped markings along its body. Typically, they prefer wooded areas, rocky hillsides, and basking near water sources.
Eastern Copperheads are usually active during the day and night, especially in the warmer months. They feed on small mammals, frogs, and lizards. While their venom can be dangerous, bites are relatively rare, and they will generally retreat if given the opportunity. However, it is crucial to exercise caution and seek professional help if you encounter one.
The Eastern Garter Snake
The Eastern Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis) is a non-venomous snake commonly found in Lexington, Kentucky. These snakes have a slender body with a distinctive pattern of longitudinal stripes running along their back, ranging in color from green to brown.
Eastern Garter Snakes are often found in various habitats, including woodlands, grasslands, and wetlands. They are active during the day and are excellent swimmers. These snakes primarily feed on small amphibians, earthworms, and small fish.
The Northern Watersnake
The Northern Watersnake (Nerodia sipedon) is a non-venomous snake commonly found near bodies of water in Lexington, Kentucky. They have a thick body and dark markings on a light brown or gray background. Their appearance often leads to confusion with venomous water snakes, such as the Cottonmouth.
These snakes can be found in creeks, ponds, and lakes, where they are excellent swimmers and feed on fish, frogs, and small mammals. While they are non-venomous, Northern Watersnakes can be aggressive if threatened and may bite. It is essential to leave them undisturbed and seek professional assistance if you encounter one.
The Black Rat Snake
The Black Rat Snake (Pantherophis obsoletus) is a non-venomous snake commonly found in Lexington, Kentucky. These snakes have a glossy black body with white or yellowish scales on their belly. They can grow quite long, often reaching lengths of up to six feet or more.
Black Rat Snakes are excellent climbers and are often found in trees, barns, and other structures. They primarily feed on small mammals, birds, and their eggs. They are non-aggressive towards humans but may strike if threatened. If you encounter a Black Rat Snake, it is best to contact a professional for assistance in safely removing it.
The Eastern Milk Snake
The Eastern Milk Snake (Lampropeltis triangulum) is a non-venomous snake commonly found in Lexington, Kentucky. These snakes have a vibrant pattern of red, black, and white bands, resembling the venomous Coral Snake. However, unlike the Coral Snake, the Eastern Milk Snake has a red nose and an alternating pattern of black and white bands on its belly.
Eastern Milk Snakes prefer wooded areas and farmlands, where they feed on small mammals, birds, and their eggs. They are primarily active during the night and are known for their docile nature. If you come across an Eastern Milk Snake, it is best to appreciate it from a distance or contact a professional for assistance.
If you encounter any of these snakes or are unsure of the species you have encountered, it is always recommended to contact a professional wildlife control service. Attempting to handle or remove snakes without proper knowledge and experience can be dangerous for both yourself and the snake.
Contact Us for Professional Wildlife Control Services in Lexington
If you are in need of professional wildlife control services in Lexington, Kentucky, our team is here to help. We have extensive experience in safely removing snakes and other wildlife from residential and commercial properties. Contact us today for prompt and reliable assistance.