Finding a snake in your garden—or worse, your basement—is a heart-stopping moment for most Louisville homeowners. The immediate question is always: “Is it poisonous?” (Technically, snakes are venomous, not poisonous, but we know what you mean!)

Kentucky is home to over 30 species of snakes, but only four are venomous. In the Louisville metro area, you really only need to worry about one: the Copperhead.

Here is a guide to identifying the snakes you are most likely to encounter in Jefferson, Oldham, and Bullitt counties.

1. The Copperhead (Venomous)

This is the one you need to watch out for. Copperheads are common in wooded suburbs like Anchorage, Prospect, and areas near Jefferson Memorial Forest.

• Appearance: A thick body with a copper or tan colored head. The defining feature is the hourglass pattern on its back. The dark bands are wide on the sides and narrow in the middle of the back.

• Head Shape: Broad, triangular head that is distinct from the neck.

• Pupils: Vertical, cat-like pupils (though you shouldn’t get close enough to check!).

• Behavior: They rely on camouflage. They will freeze rather than flee, which is why people accidentally step on them.

• Verdict: DANGEROUS. Do not approach. Keep pets away and call a professional.

2. Gray Ratsnake (Harmless & Beneficial)

This is the snake we get the most calls about. They are often found in attics, barns, or climbing trees.

• Appearance: Large (can grow to 6 feet+). Adults are mostly black or dark gray with a white/checkerboard belly. Juveniles have gray bodies with dark blotches (often mistaken for Copperheads).

• Behavior: Excellent climbers. If you see a snake scaling a brick wall or in a rafter, it’s a Rat Snake. They kink their bodies like a crinkle-cut fry when threatened.

• Verdict: Harmless. They are great to have around because they eat the mice and chipmunks that damage your home.

3. Common Garter Snake (Harmless)

The classic “garden snake.”

• Appearance: Small and thin (usually 18-26 inches). Dark body with three yellow or cream stripes running down the length of the back.

• Behavior: Found in grass, gardens, and near foundations. They eat slugs, worms, and insects.

• Verdict: Harmless. Great for your garden.

4. Northern Water Snake (Harmless but Aggressive)

Often found near the Ohio River, Floyd’s Fork, or backyard ponds.

• Appearance: Brown or gray with dark bands. As they age, they can look almost black.

• The Confusion: They are frequently mistaken for the venomous Cottonmouth (Water Moccasin). Note: Cottonmouths are typically found in Western Kentucky swamps, NOT in the Louisville area.

• Behavior: They are ill-tempered. If cornered, they will flatten their heads (mimicking a venomous snake) and bite repeatedly.

• Verdict: Non-Venomous, but give them space to avoid a painful bite.

5. Eastern Hognose Snake (The Actor)

• Appearance: Variable colors (yellow, black, brown). Upturned “pig” nose.

• Behavior: The drama queen of the snake world. When threatened, it will flatten its neck like a cobra and hiss. If that doesn’t work, it will roll over, stick its tongue out, and play dead.

• Verdict: Harmless. It’s all a bluff.

What To Do If You See A Snake

1. Stop. Do not move closer.

2. Identify. Try to see the pattern (Hourglass = Copperhead).

3. Leave it alone. 80% of snake bites happen when people try to kill or capture the snake.

4. Spray it (Gently): If a non-venomous snake is on your patio, a gentle spray from a garden hose is usually enough to encourage it to move along.

5. Call Us: If the snake is inside your home or you suspect it is venomous, call Critter Removal of Louisville. We have the tools to safely capture and relocate the animal without harm.

Prevention Tip: Snakes are in your yard for two reasons: food and shelter. To reduce snake sightings, keep grass cut short, remove debris piles (wood/rocks), and eliminate rodent populations.