Many people are skeptical about going out in a kayak because they are nervous about encountering nature up close and personal – specifically, “scary” nature, such as snakes. But that is largely an unfounded concern. While Florida’s waterways are home to various snake species, most are non-venomous, and encounters with snakes are very rare.
Did You Know? While Florida reports approximately 300 snake bites per year, this is very low considering the millions of people visiting our state for outdoor recreation. Most of these bites are harmless but occur when people try to get too close to a snake, pick it up, or handle it. In other words, snakes are not interested in dealing with humans – so if you see a snake, just allow it to go on its way without bothering it.
Florida’s natural environment includes rivers, creeks, canals, lagoons, bays, and estuaries – not to mention large swaths of wetlands and heavily wooded areas. These areas are naturally home to all sorts of animals, including snakes. Since we are interested in kayaking primarily, let’s discuss the common snakes you might encounter in or near these aquatic environments.
Non-Venomous Snakes
The Florida Water Snake is one of the most common varieties of snakes in the state, and it is completely harmless. It is brown or gray with dark bands or blotches. They are excellent swimmers and can be found in lakes, rivers, swamps, and marshes. Another common and harmless snake you may see is the common Garter Snake. This snake is found in various environments, including around water bodies. It is long and slender, often with stripes running along its body.
The Eastern Rat Snake is typically black or gray with a lighter belly. Because this variety of snake is a good climber, it is most often found in trees that overlook the water. The Green Water Snake is found in slow-moving waters such as ponds or swamps and can be identified by its greenish-brown, slender body.
Snakes to Look Out For
As stated, snakes are wary of humans and are even more interested in avoiding an encounter than you are. The best way to avoid a snake bite is to leave snakes alone—do not approach, attempt to handle, or pick them up.
Most snake bites happen on land when hikers inadvertently step on a snake. Being in a kayak virtually assures that your encounter will be safe. There are only two snakes that those around the water should know about, although there is little to fear from the deck of a kayak.
- The cottonmouth (water moccasin) is thick-bodied, often dark in color, with a lighter belly. It may also have a distinctive white mouth. It is commonly found in swamps, marshes, and along rivers.
- The Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake is a large, heavy-bodied snake with a characteristic diamond pattern. It is not considered an aquatic snake, but it may be seen near water sources during warmer months.
When exploring Florida’s waterways, it is important to respect the local wildlife of all varieties. Snakes will only bite if threatened, so maintain a safe distance and enjoy the rare opportunity to observe their behavior. Understanding these species and their roles in the ecosystem can promote coexistence and conservation efforts.
We believe that the beauty and tranquility of kayaking should be experienced by everyone who visits the Gulf Coast. If you are still concerned about snakes (or any type of natural encounter while kayaking), schedule a kayaking expedition with a professional tour guide. The guides at Ride and Paddle are knowledgeable about kayaking and familiar with the natural waterways and ecosystems. Allow us to take you out on your first paddle – you’ll gain the confidence to venture out independently in no time.
