Science
Coachwhip Reigns as Mississippi’s Longest Snake
Mississippi hosts more than 50 snake species, ranging from small burrowers to large reptiles that can exceed eight feet in length. The state’s longest snake is the coachwhip, named for its black head fading to tan or gray toward the tail, resembling a braided bullwhip. Most coachwhips measure 4–6 feet, but exceptional individuals can reach about 8.5 feet, slightly longer than the typical 3–6‑foot eastern diamondback rattlesnake. The maximum recorded length for a coachwhip is roughly 7.5–8 feet. Eastern coachwhips are primarily found in Mississippi’s Pine Belt, where they inhabit pine savannahs and sandy soils, though their habitat is diminishing. These nonvenomous snakes are fast, agile hunters that feed on small mammals, insects, frogs, lizards, and other snakes.
The eastern indigo snake is considered the longest snake in the United States, with some record holders over nine feet. While the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service still lists its range to include southeast Mississippi, sightings are rare. Historically, Mississippi had eastern indigo populations along the coast, but deforestation and development have led to local extinction. The Orianne Society notes that the current range is largely Florida (excluding the panhandle) and southeastern Georgia. The species is classified as “threatened” under the Endangered Species Act, and efforts are underway to restore its populations.
The Endangered Species Act protects several native species, including the black bear, Florida panther, gopher tortoise, all sea turtles, sawback turtles, and two bat species. Snakes protected under the Act include the black pine snake, eastern indigo snake, rainbow snake, and southern hognose snake.
Contributing: Miguel Legoas. Bonnie Bolden is the Deep South Connect reporter for Mississippi with Gannett/USA TODAY. Email her at bbolden@gannett.com.