Introduction to Alaska’s Snake Population
Many people assume that Alaska’s cold climate and rugged terrain make it an inhospitable place for snakes. However, Alaska is home to a surprising variety of snake species. While the number of species that inhabit Alaska is relatively low compared to other parts of the world, the snakes that live in Alaska have adapted to the state’s unique environment in interesting ways.
Alaska’s snake population includes both venomous and non-venomous species. Some species are more commonly found in certain regions of the state, and others are quite rare. Let’s take a closer look at the different species of snakes that can be found in Alaska.
The Garter Snake: Common in Alaska
The garter snake is a species of snake that is commonly found in Alaska. This non-venomous snake is known for its distinctive striped pattern, which varies in color from reddish-brown to greenish-grey. Garter snakes are relatively small, typically measuring between 18 and 26 inches in length.
One interesting fact about garter snakes is that they are able to give birth to live young, instead of laying eggs like most other snake species. Garter snakes are also known for their ability to secrete a foul-smelling odor when threatened, which helps to deter predators.
The Wandering Garter Snake: A Subspecies
The wandering garter snake is a subspecies of the common garter snake that is found in Alaska. This snake is known for its distinctive orange-red band that runs down the middle of its body. The wandering garter snake is a bit larger than the common garter snake, typically measuring between 24 and 30 inches in length.
Wandering garter snakes are typically found near streams and wetlands, where they feed on fish, amphibians, and other small prey. They are also known for their ability to climb trees, which is a useful adaptation for a snake that lives in a forested area like Alaska.
The Western Terrestrial Garter Snake
The western terrestrial garter snake is another subspecies of the common garter snake that is found in Alaska. This snake is known for its distinctive blue-green coloration, which is a result of a pigment called biliverdin that is present in its skin.
Western terrestrial garter snakes are typically found in rocky areas or open grasslands, where they feed on a variety of small prey including insects, rodents, and amphibians. This species of snake is also known for its strong swimming ability, which allows it to cross streams and other bodies of water.
The Common Kingsnake: Another Resident
The common kingsnake is a non-venomous snake that is found throughout the United States, including Alaska. This species is known for its ability to kill and eat other snakes, which is where it gets its name. Common kingsnakes typically measure between 3 and 4 feet in length and are black or brown in color with white or yellow markings.
In Alaska, common kingsnakes are most commonly found in the southern part of the state. They are typically found in forested areas or near bodies of water, where they feed on small mammals, birds, and other snakes.
The Rough-Skinned Newt: A Toxic Predator
While not technically a snake, the rough-skinned newt is a predator that is found in Alaska and is worth mentioning in any article about the state’s reptile population. Rough-skinned newts are relatively small, measuring between 3 and 5 inches in length, and are black or brown in color.
These newts are known for their potent toxin, which is produced in their skin and can be deadly to predators like birds and mammals. Interestingly, the garter snake is one of the few predators that is able to tolerate the rough-skinned newt’s toxin and is therefore a major predator of this species.
The Northern Pacific Rattlesnake
The northern Pacific rattlesnake is a venomous snake that is found in southern Alaska. This species is known for its distinctive rattle, which it uses to warn potential predators of its presence. Northern Pacific rattlesnakes typically measure between 3 and 4 feet in length and are brown or greenish in color with dark markings.
Despite their venomous nature, northern Pacific rattlesnakes are relatively docile and are not known to attack humans unless provoked. In Alaska, this species is most commonly found in rocky, mountainous areas.
The Ring-Necked Snake’s Appearance
The ring-necked snake is a non-venomous species that is found in Alaska. This species is known for its distinctive ring-like markings around its neck, which are yellow or orange in color. Ring-necked snakes are relatively small, typically measuring between 10 and 15 inches in length.
Ring-necked snakes are typically found in forested areas or near bodies of water, where they feed on small prey like insects and slugs. They are also known for their tendency to hide under rocks and other objects, which helps to protect them from predators.
The Rubber Boa: A Slow-Moving Predator
The rubber boa is a non-venomous snake that is found in Alaska. This species is known for its slow-moving, docile nature and is often kept as a pet. Rubber boas typically measure between 1 and 2 feet in length and are brown or tan in color.
In Alaska, rubber boas are typically found in forested areas or near bodies of water. They are relatively rare in the state, but are sometimes encountered by hikers or other outdoor enthusiasts.
The Red-Sided Garter Snake
The red-sided garter snake is a subspecies of the common garter snake that is found in Alaska. This species is known for its distinctive red-orange stripes, which are bordered by black markings. Red-sided garter snakes are relatively small, typically measuring between 18 and 26 inches in length.
In Alaska, red-sided garter snakes are typically found in wetland areas, where they feed on fish, amphibians, and other small prey. They are also known for their tendency to hibernate in large groups, which can number in the thousands.
The Northern Water Snake: A Rare Find
The northern water snake is a species that is rarely found in Alaska. This non-venomous snake is typically found in eastern parts of the United States, but can occasionally be found in Alaska’s southeastern region. Northern water snakes are brown or gray in color, with dark markings.
These snakes are typically found near bodies of water, where they feed on fish and other aquatic prey. While they are not venomous, northern water snakes are known for their aggressive behavior when threatened.
Conclusion: Alaska’s Diverse Snake Population
While many people may not expect to find a diverse population of snakes in Alaska, the state is actually home to a variety of species. From the common garter snake to the venomous northern Pacific rattlesnake, Alaska’s snake population has adapted to the unique environment of the state in interesting ways. Whether you are a hiker, a nature enthusiast, or simply curious about the natural world, exploring Alaska’s snake population is a fascinating experience.
