Once common throughout Alabama, the nonvenomous Eastern hognose snake, also known as the spreading adder and the deaf adder, is now considered to be rare to certain areas of the state. The hognose snake gets its name from its distinct upturned nose. The Eastern hog nose's coloration can vary from a uniform black, brown, olive or gray. They may also have an irregular pattern of dark blotches down the back with dark spots on each side. While hognose snakes can reach up to 46 inches in length, they usually are about 20 to 30 inches.
Dr. Jim Armstrong, an Alabama Extension wildlife specialist, said that the Eastern hognose snake is commonly mistaken for many venomous snakes because of its broad head.
“They are a fascinating snake with their unusual behavior of spreading and flattening their neck and head when threatened,” said Armstrong. “If the snake is further harassed it will roll over, play dead, and throw up the contents of its stomach. At this point most predators will move on and not see it as a potential meal.”
The snake lives in a wide variety of places but is most abundant in places where their food source, toads, is present. You can find this snake primarily in woodlands with sandy soil, fields, farmland and coastal areas.
The Alabama 4-H Science School has several Eastern hognose snakes in its wildlife collection. The 4-H Science School uses its live animal programs to teach about the state’s biodiversity and to foster interest in environmental stewardship.
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