Your free local resource for identifying snakes in Hamilton County and East Tennessee. Know the species, understand the risks, and stay safe. Written by Barbara Quinn — Slither Me Timbers, Greater Chattanooga Area.
East Tennessee is home to approximately 34 native snake species. Of those, only 2 are venomous and regularly encountered in Hamilton County: the Northern Copperhead and the Timber Rattlesnake. The other 32+ species are completely harmless — and actually beneficial, as they control rodent and insect populations.
Understanding which species you're dealing with is the first step to responding calmly and correctly. This guide covers the most common species you're likely to encounter in and around Chattanooga.
These species are frequently encountered in yards, gardens, and homes across Hamilton County. They are completely harmless to healthy adults and beneficial to the local ecosystem.
Thamnophis sirtalis
One of the most common snakes in the Chattanooga area. Slender, active during the day, frequently seen in gardens and near water.
Identification
Benefit: Feeds on slugs, earthworms, and insects. An excellent garden companion.
Pantherophis alleghaniensis
Tennessee's largest non-venomous snake and an excellent rodent controller. Often mistaken for venomous species due to its size and defensive posturing.
Identification
Benefit: An elite rodent predator. One rat snake can dramatically reduce mouse and rat populations around a property.
Lampropeltis triangulum
A colorful, secretive species often confused with Copperheads due to its banded pattern. Completely harmless and often found under logs and in barns.
Identification
Note: Milk snakes are constrictors. They pose zero threat to humans but may bite if handled roughly. Best practice is to leave them alone.
Diadophis punctatus
A tiny, secretive snake that lives under rocks and logs. Completely harmless and one of the most distinctive-looking snakes in Tennessee.
Identification
Tip: If you find one in your yard, consider yourself lucky — they're shy and rarely seen. Just leave it alone.
Lampropeltis getula
A powerfully built, docile snake that is actually immune to the venom of Copperheads and Rattlesnakes — and will actively prey on them.
Identification
Superpower: Kingsnakes actively prey on venomous snakes. A kingsnake on your property is nature's own venomous-snake deterrent.
Opheodrys aestivus
A brilliantly colored, vine-like snake that is almost entirely arboreal (tree-dwelling). One of the most stunning and harmless snakes in the region.
Identification
Note: Turns bluish-gray after death, so a dead green snake may confuse people. Completely docile — it will not bite.
Only two venomous snakes are commonly encountered in the Greater Chattanooga area. Learn to identify both immediately. If you suspect you've found one, do not approach it — call Barbara.
Agkistrodon contortrix mokasen
The most commonly encountered venomous snake in Hamilton County. Responsible for the majority of venomous snakebites in the eastern United States, primarily due to misidentification and accidental contact.
Identification (Critical)
Habitat in Chattanooga: Rocky hillsides, wooded areas, brush piles, gardens, and near construction sites. Often near rock walls and the edge of forest and residential areas.
Common Lookalike: Milk snakes and juvenile rat snakes are frequently mistaken for Copperheads. The key difference is the Copperhead's distinct hourglass banding and copper-colored head.
Crotalus horridus
A large and powerful venomous snake found in the forested ridges and rocky outcrops surrounding Chattanooga. Despite its fearsome reputation, it is generally docile and gives clear warning before striking.
Identification (Critical)
Habitat in Chattanooga: Lookout Mountain, Signal Mountain, and the forested ridges of Hamilton County. Rocky outcrops, talus slopes, and mature hardwood forests. Rarely in backyards unless adjacent to these habitats.
Important: Timber Rattlesnakes are a Species of Conservation Concern in Tennessee. It is illegal to kill them. Call Barbara for safe, legal relocation.
You don't need to see pupils or pits to make a cautious call. Remember these three rules:
If you hear a rattle or buzzing sound, assume it's a Timber Rattlesnake. Keep your distance and call Barbara.
Crossbands that are wide on the sides and narrow in the center (hourglass shape) on a copper-brown snake = treat as Copperhead.
Send Barbara a photo via text at (804) 840-0464. She'll identify it fast and tell you exactly what to do next.
Most snake encounters go badly because people panic. Follow these steps — they apply whether the snake is in your yard, your garage, or your home.
Give the snake at least 6 feet of space immediately. Most bites happen when someone steps on or near a snake they didn't see coming, or when they try to handle it.
Don't lose sight of where it is. If it's safe to do so, keep watching from a distance so you can direct the removal professional when they arrive.
Kids and curious dogs are most at risk. Get them inside calmly and close the door. Your pets can't tell the difference between a garter snake and a Copperhead.
A clear photo helps Barbara identify the species before she arrives — and determines the right tools to bring. Use your phone's zoom; never get closer to take a better photo.
Even if the snake seems harmless, a professional removal ensures it's done safely and humanely. Don't try to relocate it yourself — you could be bitten or harm the animal.
A snake inside feels as threatened as you do. It's looking for an exit, not a fight. Panicking or cornering it increases the bite risk dramatically.
If the snake is in a specific room, close the door and stuff a towel underneath. This limits its movement and keeps it contained for the removal professional.
A cornered snake will bite in self-defense. Attempting to trap it yourself dramatically increases the risk of a bite, even from a non-venomous species.
A snake inside a home is a priority emergency. Call (804) 840-0464 right now. Keep the door to that room closed and wait outside if possible.
Erlanger Medical Center, CHI Memorial, and Parkridge have antivenom. Tell the ER you were bitten by a snake immediately upon arrival.
Text Barbara a photo right now. She'll identify it fast and tell you whether you need emergency removal or if it's a harmless visitor to your yard.