Eastern Hog-nosed Snake
Heterodon platirhinos — Colubridae
20–33 inches
How to identify
- Distinctly upturned, pig-like snout
- Stout, heavy body for its length
- Variable coloration: tan, brown, orange, gray, or nearly black with dark blotches
- Flattens head dramatically into a cobra-like hood when threatened
- Round pupils
About this species
One of Virginia's most dramatic and entertaining snakes, the eastern hog-nosed snake is famous for its bluffing behavior. When threatened, it flattens its head and neck to appear cobra-like and hisses loudly — then, if that fails, it rolls onto its back and plays dead convincingly, even letting its tongue hang out. Despite this performance, it is completely harmless. The upturned snout is unmistakable.
Often confused with
Did you know
"If playing dead does not deter a predator, the hog-nosed snake adds a convincing touch — it produces a foul smell mimicking a decaying carcass. If you pick it up, it will go limp in your hand and let its tongue hang out."
Sightings & citizen science
Help document Virginia wildlife by logging your sightings on iNaturalist. Every observation builds the conservation data that researchers and rehabbers depend on.
View Eastern Hog-nosed Snake observations on iNaturalist ↗If you've found an injured or displaced Eastern Hog-nosed Snake in Virginia, our triage guide walks you through what to do.