History of Snakes

Snakes are the modern reptiles. It is thought that they evolved from burrowing lizards who exploited the several advantages to be found in  a cylindrical legless body for the survival. They evolved and developed internal organs and their color provides them the best camouflage. They are of many types , some Snakes hides in the sand, while some swims in the sea while some are the crown of the trees. They are the integral part of our food chain . Some Snakes are venomous while some are non venomous . Only 10 percent of the snake population is venomous. Snakes act as the important component of natural ecosystem. Common in many types of habitat they affect the "balance of nature " as both predators and prey. Most common Snakes are:-
  1. Garter Snake- This prolific,  adaptable species thrives in suburban habitats and often utilizes the shelter provided by shrubbery,  mulch , stonewalls and cracked masonry around houses. Active by day, it is often observed in the morning,  warming itself on stairs and sidewalks exposed to the Sun.                                                                                                                                                       
    Garter Snake

  2. Milk Snake- It makes use of many of the some habitats as the Garter Snake and sometime enters building in search of mice, it's favored prey. Though quite common,  it's secretive nature and nocturnal  habits make it less likely to be encountered than the Garter Snake.                                                                                                                                 
    Milk Snake

  3. The Ring Neck Snake- It is rarely found in the open,  this inoffensive,  pretty Snake with the bright band around its neck is sometimes encountered in the damp or dirt floored basements that offer ample food in the form of salamanders and insects.                                                                                                 
    Ring Neck Snake
      
  4. Water snake- It is one of the most prolific species and can be found in virtually all pond , river and wetland habitats throughout the state. Water Snakes are often reported by home owners who found them in the spring as they disperse from hibernation sites.                                                                            
    Water Snake
      
  5. Black Snake- The black Snake or black racer is a long slender "sight hunter " known for its speed and agility. It is usually encountered in rural habitats of mixed brushed,  field and forest. Although this alert,  inquisitive reptile often raises its head up to observe approaching people or other disturbances. It quickly turns tail and flashes away at the slightest hint of danger.                                                                                                                                                                                
    Milk Snake

Before coming to poisonous and venomous Snakes first let see the difference between the two.

Both type of Snakes are toxic. 

Poisonous snake- These are the snakes which can inject its toxins only when it bites us. For example- Python,  Anaconda , Garter Snake. 

Venomous snake- These are the snakes which can inject its toxins when we touch or eat it. For example- Black mambas,  carpet vipers , cobras.

If you want to identify the snake, then you must see the following:-

Solid or plain colored snakes

1.Green snake with a light belly; uses a variety of habitats,  usually with abundant ground cover; moderately common , then it is Smooth Green Snake.

2. Small, dark Grey to black Snake with a complete yellow ring around the neck,  yellow belly and smooth scales; occasionally found in basements, then it is Ring neck Snake.

3. Shiny, brown snake with smooth scales, pink belly, tapered head and tail and small eyes; prefers sandy soil; rare, then it is Worm Snake.