Reptile & Amphibian Forums

My mother in law brought home a snake that one of her coworkers found inside their building, a health clinic. I have looked at pictures of many snakes here, and just can't figure out what it is. It's about pencil diameter with a wedge shaped head similar to a green tree python, but its coloration is pink/orange and brownish. Being from Wisconsin, it could very well be a bull snake, but it's a bit cold for them right now, and as my animals did about 3-4 weeks ago, most of the snakes here are brumating or hibernating.

It has the body type of a constrictor, and is about 10-13 inches long. It's attitude is obviously one of a scared baby, striking at the air when you go near it. A very long tail has convinced me it is not any type of python or boa. I will post pics as soon as possible.

Almost impossible to tell without a pic but form what you said it might be a copperhead. What color is the tail?

It would not be a copperhead, Wisconsin is out of the range of the copperhead.

I would say it is more than likely a Dekay's brown snake or a Northern redbellied snake. Both species have a highly variable coloration, especially the DeKay's. They can range from an earthy brown to a grey color, and have a cream to pinkish belly. Take a look at this link and hopefully it will help. Both will strike when threatened, especially around dogs or cats.

It was probably trying to find someplace to stay for the winter.

Hope this helps
Brian
Wisconsin DNR

Sorry I didn't think about the fact that you were that far north. Not a copperhead.