05/16/2026
🐍 SNAKE SAFETY & IDENTIFICATION IN JOSHUA, TEXAS 🐍
As the weather warms up in North Texas, snakes become more active around yards, trails, ponds, wood piles, barns, and neighborhoods. Most snakes are harmless and actually help control rodents and pests, but it’s important to know which ones to avoid.
The MOST COMMON venomous snakes seen around Joshua, Texas and the surrounding DFW area are:
⚠️ Copperheads
• Often found in wooded areas, tall grass, leaf piles, and near creeks
• Excellent camouflage with copper-colored “hourglass” markings
• Usually freeze instead of fleeing, which is why people accidentally step near them
⚠️ Western Diamondback Rattlesnakes
• The most widespread venomous snake in Texas
• Identified by diamond-shaped markings and a tail rattle
• Common in rocky, dry, and rural areas
⚠️ Cottonmouths (Water Moccasins)
• Usually found near water sources like ponds, creeks, and marshy areas
• Heavy-bodied with a thick head
• May open their white mouth when threatened
⚠️ Coral Snakes (less common)
• Bright red, yellow, and black bands
• Very shy and rarely seen
• Remember: “Red touches yellow, kill a fellow.”
🐍 Common NON-venomous snakes in our area:
• Rat snakes
• Garter snakes
• Kingsnakes
• Water snakes
• Bullsnakes
These harmless snakes are beneficial because they help reduce mice, rats, and even other snakes.
✅ Snake Safety Tips:
• Watch where you step, especially at dusk and night
• Keep grass trimmed and remove wood or debris piles
• Wear boots when walking in tall grass or wooded areas
• Never try to handle or kill a snake
• If you see one, give it space and allow it to move away
Most snake bites happen when someone tries to touch, move, or kill the snake.
Stay aware, stay safe, and respect Texas wildlife! 🤠🐍
PLEASE contact Joshua animal services, or the Joshua Police Department.
