Eastern Milk Snake Lampropeltis triangulum

Identification
This species has a gray or tan body with reddish brown blotches bordered by black. Its pattern is often mistaken for that of venomous species.

Location
Common statewide

Size
24 to 36 inches

Diet
It feeds mainly on small mammals and uses constriction to subdue prey.

Habitat
It occurs in forests fields and agricultural areas across Ohio.

Activity Period
April to October

Behavior
It is secretive and often shelters under rocks logs and debris. It is an effective predator of rodents. It is most active in warm months and often found under cover objects.

Lifecycle
Breeding occurs in spring and females lay eggs in early summer.

Population
The population is stable statewide.

History
It has long been common in Ohio and frequently appears in barns.

Human Interactions
It is harmless but often misidentified.

Facts
It is one of the most frequently misidentified snakes in Ohio.

Sources
ODNR NatureServe

Rodents birds eggs reptiles | Forests fields barns rocky areas | Statewide