Most species have several roles to play within a healthy, self-perpetuating ecosystem. Because they’re preyed upon by so many things, they actively avoid larger animals such as humans. This includes hawks, owls, raccoons, skunks, other snakes, and even Bullfrogs. In addition to being important predators in their respective environments, Eastern Milksnakes are also prey for a variety of other animals. They’re important members of our ecosystem too! ECOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE So if you aren’t the biggest fan of snakes or rodents but live alongside them, having Eastern Milksnakes around will help to keep those populations in check!ĭespite being venomous, Northern Copperheads (pictured here) are readily eaten by Eastern Milksnakes! That isn’t to say Copperheads should be viewed as undesirable. But the bulk of their diet actually consists of small rodents, such as field mice and voles. Eastern Milksnakes are true to this reputation and will readily eat a variety of snakes, both venomous and non-venomous. Lampropeltis is nicknamed the “kingsnake” Genus because of their propensity to eat other serpents. Canopy gaps help keep the forest floor warm for them, and the abundance of rocks offer safe places to rest. Their natural habitat includes a variety of environments, including old fields, rocky meadows, rocky hillsides, and deciduous woodlands.Īlthough Eastern Milksnakes are often found on agricultural land, rocky woodlands like this are one of many natural environments that they inhabit. Farmland also tends to have an abundance of wood and old metal laying around, which are attractive hiding spots for these snakes. The real reason they hang around barns is because of the critters they like to eat (more on that in a bit).

The truth is, Eastern Milksnakes aren’t concerned with cows, nor do they drink milk. Consequently, a myth was created which claimed that this species snuck into barns at night to drink milk from cows. Eastern Milksnakes are often found in and around old barns and agricultural facilities. The common name “Milksnake” actually stems from where these snakes like to spend their time, oddly enough. Regardless of what they resemble, Eastern Milksnakes are in fact both non-venomous and completely harmless. Some biologists believe these contrasting colors evolved to mimic venomous species, and signal to would-be predators that they’re not worth eating. Juvenile Eastern Milksnakes are much more contrasting than adults. Respecting the snake’s personal space both minimizes the chance of you mistaking a venomous species for a non-venomous one, and it also prevents the snake from expending energy while trying to get away. Quick disclaimer: Some distinguishing features are subtle and difficult to tell from a distance, so it’s always best to avoid handling snakes. They can grow to be 4 ft in length, though most adults average out around 2 ft. One additional characteristic typical of Eastern Milksnakes is the “Y” or “V” shaped blotch typically found on their neck/head area (see photo above). The genus name “ Lampropeltis” roughly translates into “shiny shield”, which is in reference to their reflective smooth scales (Copperheads, conversely, have keeled scales and appear more matte and less reflective). Adults tend to have variable brick red to brownish blotches over a grayish base color, whereas juveniles are more consistently bright red and white (much like a candy cane). ID TIPS/DESCRIPTIONĮastern Milksnakes are stunning reptiles, and a personal favorite of many snake enthusiasts. Let’s take a closer look at this interesting snake species. The truth is, not only are Eastern Milksnakes completely harmless, they actually make pretty decent neighbors. Because they bear a slight resemblance to the venomous (but also misunderstood) Northern Copperhead, they’re often senselessly persecuted by people. Eastern Milksnakes ( Lampropeltis triangulum) are among the most misunderstood snake species we have in Pennsylvania.

Eastern milksnake captive