What is the World’s Most Reptile-Inhabited State?
Snakes fascinate–or terrify–people all over the world, and for someone particularly interested in the world of reptiles, finding the place offering the greatest variety is an exciting prospect. So which place in the world has the most snakes?
Florida: Swampland Snake Mecca
In terms of both diversity and sheer numbers, the United States state of Florida reigns supreme among states. Home to over ninety species of snakes across its length and breadth, Florida is the uncontested champion of snake-dense areas. Of all the venomous species of snake, six are native to the Florida area- the eastern diamondback, the timber rattlesnake, the dusky pygmy rattlesnake, the coral snake, the cottonmouth, and the red diamond rattlesnake.
Advantages & Reasons
The reason for this abundance of snake species lies in Florida’s subtropical climate, as well as its varied network of swamps, marshes and other moist habitats. These offer the perfect environment for snakes, who come out in droves to take advantage of the warm temperatures and ample food sources. Additionally, Florida’s diversity of ecosystems, from beaches and sand dunes to mangrove wetlands, helps to give it a greater variety of snakes than its neighboring states.
Other Favorable States
Other states offer more variety in terms of venomous snakes, but not in terms of sheer numbers. Georgia and South Carolina, two of Florida’s neighboring states, come close in terms of venomous snakes with five species each- but nowhere close when it comes to total snake species. Tennessee has the most venomous snakes of all of its bordering states with seven species native to its area, while Alabama and Mississippi both have six species each.
Final Thoughts
For those looking to find a wider variety of snake species, Florida is definitely the place to be. With its subtropical climate and vibrant variety of ecosystems, Florida offers the perfect home for a large number of snake species, making it one of the most exciting places for reptile enthusiasts to visit.
