There are many poisonous snakes in the United States. There are a few out of many found in found in Louisiana, such as the Cotton Mouth (water moccasin), the Copperhead, the Rattlesnake, the Pit Viper, and the Coral snake. Each of these snakes have their own characteristics, habitats, and symptoms of their bite.
The Cottonmouth, also called a water moccasin, is a poisonous viper found in southeastern and south central North America. They live in swamps, lakes, rivers, and ditches. These dangerous snakes closely resemble harmless water snakes that leave in the same habitat. Therefore it is best to leave all water snakes alone. Cottonmouths usually stand their ground. An aroused Cottonmouth will draw its head close to its body and open its mouth showing its white interior. Cottonmouth venom is hemotoxic and potent. Bites are prone to gangrene.
The Copperhead is a poisonous snake that is usually found in central and eastern North America. They live in wooded areas, rocky areas, and mountainous areas. They are a chestnut color with darker crossbands of rich browns that become narrower on top widen on the bottom. The top of the head is a coppery color. Copperheads have a natural camouflage ability to blend in with the environment. They are inoffensive but will defend themselves vigorously. There venom is hemotoxic.
Rattlesnakes are the most widely known. They are found throughout the United States and account for the most poisonous snakebites in North American. They leave in palmettos and scrubs, swamps, pine woods, and flat woods. It has been observed swimming many miles out in the Gulf of Mexico, reaching some of the islands off the .
Florida coast. The rattlesnake is the largest venomous snake in the United States. This species has a sullen disposition, ready to defend itself when threatened. Its venom is potent and is hemotoxic, causing great pain and damage to tissue. They have rattle located at the end of their tales.