Reptiles

Of the 90 amphibian and reptile species and subspecies listed as occurring in the Texas counties encompassing the preserve, 71 are confirmed present, with an additional 19 species that could occur in the Big Thicket. The most diverse group of reptiles are snakes. 68 snake species have been found in Texas with nearly half of these verified or believed to be living in the preserve. Other types of reptiles present include skinks, lizards, turtles (both aquatic and terrestrial), and the American alligator. Three types of amphibians, including frogs, toads, and salamanders, inhabit Big Thicket National Preserve.

Check out our park species lists to see all of the reptiles, amphibians, and other species that inhabit the Big Thicket.

 

Reptiles

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  Venomous Snakes

  Watch out for these venomous snakes!

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  Non-Venomous Snakes

  These snakes pose little danger to humans but still manage to catch their prey.

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  Turtles

  Read more about Big Thicket's turtles.

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  Alligator

  Learn more about these enormous reptiles.

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  Anoles

  These lizards are a common sight in the Big Thicket.

 

Reptile Safety

Alligators can pose some risk to humans. The alligators within the preserve tend to be secretive and very few human-alligator confrontations have occurred. Snapping turtles can also pose a serious risk if approached and can result in a finger being lost or serious bite. On a similar note, venomous snakes can be found throughout the preserve including rattlesnakes, water moccasins (cottonmouths), copperheads, and coral snakes. In most circumstances these snakes are just as determined to get away from you as you are to get away from them. Water moccasins (also called cottonmouths) are probably the most aggressive and least likely to back off as a person approaches. Be careful to watch for any of these reptiles while walking off-trail or boating. Harassment or killing of any of these important reptiles is illegal.