Eastern Indigo Snake, Alabama's Longest Native Snake, Faces Threatened Status
The Eastern Indigo snake, recognized as Alabama's longest native snake and the longest native snake in North America, is currently listed as a federally threatened species. These non-venomous snakes can reach lengths of up to 9 feet, with the longest recorded in Alabama measuring 8 feet 6 inches. They are characterized by their glossy, deep blue-black scales and a reddish-orange tint on their chin and throat. Despite their size, Eastern Indigo snakes are generally non-aggressive towards humans and are not considered dangerous. They are protected under the Endangered Species Act federally and by non-game wildlife regulations in Alabama, making it illegal to harm, capture, or kill them. The species primarily inhabits longleaf pine forests in Alabama's southern Coastal Plain, favoring dry, sandy ridges and often utilizing gopher tortoise burrows for shelter. Researchers in the 1980s released these snakes into seven Alabama counties, and while some were recaptured, indicating survival, wildlife experts need to...
