2. Its eyes. Venomous snakes usually have a vertical, elliptical (cat-like) pupil, whereas the pupil of a non-venomous snake will be round and located in the center of its eyes.

Plains garter snakes are a medium-sized non-venomous snake species—ranging from 1 to 2 feet—that can be identified by the bright orange to yellow stripe along the backs of their black scaly ...

Snakes are also protected in Illinois, according to the state’s department of natural resources, though you may be able to collect or hunt non-endangered species with a valid permit.

Distinguishing venomous from non-venomous snakes involves observing head shape, eye pupils, and heat-sensing pits, though these aren't foolproof. Color patterns can be deceptive, so caution is ...

In the course of her research, she has been scratched or pricked more than 100 times by the small fangs of non-venomous snake species from North Carolina to Nicaragua. As the days warm and these shy ...