While 26 snake species slither about in the Buckeye State, they are largely out of sight and mind. That’s probably a good thing to many people, as ophidiophobia (human fear of snakes) is quite common.

The cottonmouth, or water moccasin, is often regarded as one of the most dangerous snakes in the southern United States.

New research indicates that, relative to their size, the snakes that can gulp down the largest meals are harmless and three feet long. By Kate Golembiewski Snakes can’t really unhinge their jaws, but ...