Eastern Hognose Snake

Eastern hognose snakes (Heterodon platirhinos) are usually colored in shades of browns and greens on top, but the colors can vary by locality. The undersides are cream or eggshell color. The eastern hognose is usually more active than other types of snakes in Oklahoma. But it is generally harmless to people.

Although the eastern hognose appears to be as threatening as many venomous snakes, it actually is among the most harmless snakes in Oklahoma. When it perceives a threat, this snake will use several defense mechanisms including hissing, an alarming sound meant to warn off predators.

If hissing is not effective, it will flatten its head to resemble a cobra. As a last resort, this snake will turn belly-up as if it were dying. While playing dead, the snake opens its mouth wide. If touched or flipped over, the snake will turn belly-up again. While the hognose is playing dead, it will secrete a musk that has an unpleasant odor.

Hognose snakes have rear-facing fangs and do possess an amphibian-specific venom. The snake must grab prey with its mouth and chew on it to be able to inject its mild venom.

The main prey items for the eastern hognose are frogs and toads. These amphibians will sometimes puff up, making it harder for the snake to swallow. But the large rear-facing fangs of the hognose will deflate the amphibians' lungs and body.

So the next time you're in the woods or fields and spot an eastern hognose, don't be alarmed. They are among the most non-threatening snakes in Oklahoma.