The state of Florida is known to have about 50 species of snakes that are native to the area; the region of Central Florida is home to 39 of them. There are six species of venomous snakes found in Florida, and four of them take up residence in the Central region of the state. Also, the non-venomous snakes are protected for the needed role they play in natural ecosytems, eating insects, rodents, rabbits, and other small prey.

Venomous (toxic) snakes in this state include the Eastern Diamond-backed Rattlesnake, the Pygmy Rattlesnake, the Coral snake and the Cottonmouth, also known as a Water Moccasin. All other snakes in the state have basically been classified by their markings, which are grouped in categories such as diamonds, rings or cross-bands, blotches, lengthwise stripes, or mostly solid in color without any obvious markings to set them apart. Due to various scale patterns, some snakes are added to more than one category.

More Info: www.flmnh.ufl.edu