The longest snake native to North America is the Eastern indigo snake, which can reach lengths of almost nine feet.
While Eastern indigo snakes were historically found in parts of Louisiana, they are not currently present in the state, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
This leaves species like the Eastern diamondback rattlesnake, Eastern coachwhip and Louisiana pine snake to be among the largest species found in the state of Louisiana.
The biggest snake species in Louisiana is the Eastern diamondback rattlesnake, which can reach lengths of three to six feet and sometimes more.
This snake is also the largest venomous snake in North America, with the largest recorded specimen reaching 99 inches, or 8.25 feet, according to The Rattlesnake Conservancy.
Along with its impressive size, this rattlesnake is well-known for its characteristic diamond pattern on its back and prominent rattle on its tail. Additionally, the snake's camouflage allows it to blend into grasses and vine cover, where it lies in wait to ambush prey.
The Eastern diamondback rattlesnake is highly deadly and considered the most dangerous venomous snake in the U.S. because of its potent venom, large size and ability to deliver a massive dose of venom.
Without treatment, a bite from this snake has a high fatality rate of up to 20-30% and can cause severe tissue damage, blood cell destruction and potentially fatal complications, according to National Zoo.
Other notable large snakes in Louisiana include:
Eastern Coachwhip: Non-venomous snake that can grow to be between four to six feet long.
Louisiana Pine Snake: Non-venomous snake that can reach four to five feet in length.
Timber Rattlesnake: Venomous snake that can grow two to six feet long.
Presley Bo Tyler is a reporter for the Louisiana Deep South Connect Team for USA Today Network. Find her on X @PresleyTyler02 and email at [email protected]
This article originally appeared on Shreveport Times: The largest snake species in Louisiana can grow up to over 6 feet