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Snake identification #841132

Asked July 17, 2023, 3:53 PM EDT

Hi there-I’m looking for help identifying a snake that was in our cottage yard this am (Antrim County). I have a video but cannot upload it. Thank you!

Antrim County Michigan

Expert Response

Hello and apologies for the delay in response.

This appears to be an eastern milk snake (Lampropeltis triangulum triangulum) based on the markings around its face, though it is also very similar to the northern water snake (Nerodia sipedon sipedon). The whitish stripes on the face are what makes me lean towards milk snake. However, milk snakes are not commonly seen out in the open during the day, but water snakes are commonly observed around lakes and rivers. I can't quite make out the scales enough to determine if they are keeled or not (another distinguishing feature). Neither of the candidate species are venomous.

This platform does not support videos, but you can send to my email at <personal data hidden>.

Clay Wilton (he/him) Replied July 25, 2023, 12:48 PM EDT

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