There are a lot of rattlesnakes in Arizona, in total about 13 different types! The Arizona coral snake is one of the most distinctly colored snakes that live in the desert. Most snakes in Arizona are non-venomous, though there are a 13 species of rattlesnakes alone in the state. The adult snake grows to an average length of 32-48 in. Thats why this desert snake is so at home in Arizona. There were no recorded deaths from coral snake bites from 1967, when an antivenin was produced, until 2006 when an untreated patient died but dont stop worrying just yet; the antivenin hasnt been commercially produced since 2003. King Cobra vs Cobra: Whats the Difference? If the color next to the red is yellow that is an Arizona coral snake. (Thamnophis cyrtopsis) Red Coachwhips are affectionately referred to as Red Racers. They are fast as the name would imply. They have a highly toxic bite and should always be left alone when seen. We also get your email address to automatically create an account for you in our website. Use the search! The desert kingsnake's dorsum is black or dark brown with yellow or off-white blotches. Most other species bands break off on their sides somewhere. Which Ones? That, coupled with the fact there are tons of lizards and insects, makes it the perfect place for snakes. Diet: Birds, small mammals, lizards, snakes, frogs, Variable Sandsnake One of the few recorded bites, which included both a subject knowledgeable in the study of snakes and photographic evidence of the snake, resulted in just swelling and discomfort; when treated with standard antivenin doses, the subject recovered in just three days. Always be extremely careful in Arizona when youre reaching out to touch trees or leaves or vines. This is large snake, capable to reach 5 feet of length. They are small and generally docile, but should not be handled for potential of being envenomated with neurotoxins. It spends its time moving around sandy soil searching for invertebrates to eat, and is rarely seen in the daytime. AZ A post shared by Micah Hanbury (@a_wild_hanbury_has_appeared). As you might expect Arizona has a lot of snakes that are known for thriving in extremely dry and hot climates. It's face is relatively long and shovel-shaped. The head is relatively small and body thin compared to length. This individual is one of a pair collected under permit from AZGFD to represent the species in educational presentations, and provide legal, captive-born specimens to Arizona educational programs. Glossy snakes have a range of colors but they are all light and look like they are faded from the sun. It occurs in a variety of habitats but generally prefers open areas with sandy soils. These are exceptionally beautiful snakes that often cause even snake-haters to admit that they're pretty. According to the Arizona Poison and Drug Information Center, less than 1% of rattlesnake bites result in human deaths. It is one of three protected rattlesnake species in the state, due to limited range and collection by poachers. The most common rattlesnake in the Phoenix area is the Western Diamondback. The base colors of these snakes vary but they have unique markings of red, black, and white blotches or bands. It is variable in color throughout its range, but individuals at Saguaro National Park are usually almost completely black. Sonoran gopher snakes are only generally about four feet long but they look bigger because they have very wide bodies. In fact, they are completely harmless, and it would be a challenge to try to get one to try and bite. I've lived in Sedona for 15 years. More than 40 snakes called the various ecosystems of Arizona their homes. The state of Arizona has 27 spider species, three of them known for their venomous bite, being potentially dangerous to humans. They can also change color to some degree, becoming more light or dark depending on various circumstances. Diet: Ants (including larvae and pupae), termites, and occasionally beetle larvae, 3693 S Old Spanish Trail So you should always be cautious when youre hiking, camping, or doing any outdoor activities in Arizona. Their coloring is usually yellow to pale brown. The grey or brown body usually has a number of black or brown blotches that often fade away mid-body, and a bright yellow or cream-colored stripe runs along the back from head to tail. They do not bite and are completely harmless, and OK to have in your yard. Their pupils are elliptical. Instead, the snakes mostly prey on spiders and insects. This snake has a variety of color patterns including orange, red, or brown with horizontal black bands. Once your account is created, you'll be logged-in to this account. Their diet includes lizards, small turtles, eggs, and rattlesnakes! They can grow to be over two feet long. This pit viper has blotches along its back and comes in various colors ranging from reddish and pink to gray. If the red bands lie next to the yellow ones, its probably a coral snake. The Sonoran whipsnake swallows its food live. Reptile Guide is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. An adult snake will measure between 26 and 70 inches. These species include: According to iNaturalist, the following ten species are the most commonly sighted snakes in Arizona: Arizona has more venomous snakes than most other states. Repeat sightings of this species could be an indication that the home has termites, however! Diet: Lizards and their eggs, Smiths Black-headed Snake Due to this snake's small size, generally 15-18 inches, its fangs are very short and penetrate human skin with difficulty. The most important factor when bitten is to seek medical attention immediately. The species contains eleven subspecies that can be Crotalus Atrox Western Diamondback Rattlesnake, Micruroides Euryxanthus Arizona Coral Snake, Crotalus Cerastes Sidewinder Rattlesnake, Sonora Semiannulata Western Ground Snake, Masticophis Taeniatus Striped Whipsnake, Lampropeltis Splendida Desert Kingsnake, Lampropeltis Californiae California Kingsnake, Indotyphlops Braminus Brahminy Blind Snake, Pituophis Catenifer Pacific Gopher Snake, Thamnophis Elegans Western Terrestrial Garter Snake, Thamnophis Sirtalis Common Garter Snake. These snakes are those most often seen by fishermen and campers along the rim areas along waterways, lakes, and ponds. New Mexico has eight venomous snakes and a large number of non-venomous ones. First noted by Robert Kennicott in letters to his mentor Spencer Baird in 1859, the Glossy Snake has nine recognized subspecies. Arizona is one of the states that is known for having the most snakes. Diet: Small mammals, birds, bird and reptile eggs, lizards, snakes, frogs, insects, carrion, Common Kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula) They are seldom seen, but live in most of the Phoenix mountain areas and desert parks. It has been observed that this behavior is specific to non-venomous species or those that possess a weak venom, unfit for defensive capabilities. Florida Showdown: Who Emerges Victorious in a Burmese Python vs. Crocodile Battle? Family Boidae. They are opportunistic feeders but well known for eating rattlesnakes. Sonoran SidewinderCrotalus cerastes cercobombus, Colorado Desert SidewinderCrotalus cerastes laterorepens, Mohave Desert SidewinderCrotalus cerastes cerastes. Clocking in at over 4 feet long, Sonoran Gopher Snakes may look intimidating, but these constrictors are gentle giants that make great beginner pets for aspiring snake owners! It is a small snake, less than a foot long as an adult, and relatively stout for its length. They are long and slender in comparison with, as the name suggests, a flat, slightly up-turned nose that is used to move through sand. It is pale brown, bordered on each side with several dark stripes. The Sonoran Coral Snake, also known as the Arizona Coral Snake or the Western Coral Snake, is another reclusive snake known for its vibrant red, black, and yellow stripes. Here are ten snakes that you might see in Arizona. This snake is best known for its rather amusing defense. The Pacific gopher snake, Pituophis catenifer, is a nonvenomous snake found in the Western United States, Canada and Mexico. They may be pink or brown, and give off a foul smell when handled. Coachwhips can help reduce rattlesnakes in an area because they are rattlesnake-eaters. The Massasauga is the only species of the genus Sistrurus, found in Arizona. The world of snakes is no less varied than the world of dogs and cats. Its very possible that you will see a rattlesnake when you are out and about in Arizona, especially if youre in State Parks or other recreational areas. Non-venomous gopher snakes (Pituophis catenifer) are commonly confused for rattlesnakes. As hatchlings, they may completely lack any red coloration whatsoever, making them look very similar to Kingsnakes. . Arizona is home to 52 species of snakes. But if it doesnt slither away it may try to play dead by flipping over on its back and lying motionless until you walk away. A slightly broadened, rounded head with round pupils. Snakes by US State Snake Image Gallery Snake Identification Privacy Policy Cookie Policy About Contact. Learn more. This snake is a strong burrower, complete with a countersunk lower jaw to prevent sand from getting in its mouth. The varied geography and diverse selection of small animals for the snakes to hunt makes Arizona an excellent destination for snake sightings. Rattlesnake bites can be extremely painful, but when treated properly are rarely fatal. Bites may cause irritation and pain, but do not require hospitalization and have no long-lasting effect. They are primarily snake eaters, but also eat lizards and invertebrates. This species is only found in Arizona in sandy areas of Mohave County. Non-venomous snakes have a spoon-shaped rounded head and venomous snakes will have a more triangular head. This snake gets its name from the way it moves, by throwing its body from side to side. Are Hedgehogs Nocturnal? The Western diamondback rattlesnake, Crotalus atrox, is the largest species of rattlesnake. They have large, round eyes that angle forward through indentations in the face, and can appear to be looking forward. The black-necked gartersnake is named for large blotches on either side of its neck. Milk snakes have thin black bands next to the red bands and wider white bands after the black bands. Species. If youre trying to identify snakes in Phoenix, then you wont start with a list of northern Arizona snakes. They are heavy-bodied for their size, which can help differentiate them from the more commonly-seen Longnosed Snakes and variety of other small, ground-dwelling species. A gophersnake is great free pest control. There are several lethal rattlesnake species found in Arizona, including Grand Canyon rattlesnakes, Arizona black rattlesnakes, Mojave rattlesnakes, and prairie rattlesnakes. They range in size between about 7 as a hatchling, to around 3 as adults. But when in doubt back up and walk away. Then sign up right now and you'll start receiving our daily newsletter absolutely free. Rough green snakes can be found throughout the Southeastern United States. The base color can be brown, grey, or olive, and most visible as a dorsal stripe nearly as wide as the snake's head. Most of the time these snakes are going to be light gray or light tan with dark brown or black blotches. Usually brown and tan, oranges and pink colors can be found as well, especially in the Painted Desert (Arizona elegans philipi) subspecies. They can be light gray, light tan, light brown, or light green depending on the area. A complete list of snakes in Arizona is: Every day A-Z Animals sends out some of the most incredible facts in the world from our free newsletter. The Tiger Rattlesnake has an unusually potent venom and should always be left alone if encountered. The long-nosed snake is a distinctive-looking species that youre unlikely to confuse with another snake. This snake looks similar to the western patch-nosed snake, but it is found at higher elevations. Alaska has no snake species. Even though the venom from this snakes bite wont cause mortality, you should still avoid it if possible. Continue with Recommended Cookies, Overview of Snakes Species in the United States. As a defense, black-necked gartersnakes will bite, defecate, and emit a foul smelling musk. Harmless Snakes in the Tucson Area Sonoran Gophersnake Managing the populations of rodents that transport disease-carrying ticks. Total length: 18 - 47 in (46 - 121 cm) Arizona has the most venomous snakes of any state. Nightsnakes are the most common snake to see inside of the home, in our experience. This species is very fast,can quickly catch its prey, and swallow it whole. Genus: Arizona. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Night Snake Hypsiglena torquata Non-Venomous This small snake can be found on roads at night and is identified by the dark blotches on the neck and a single row of dorsal blotches. They can be mistaken for the Sonoran Coralsnake on occasion, but in general are easy to differentiate by the lack of white or yellow bands. Southern and Western Arizona, stretching into the Northwest, Yellowish base color with orange and black bands which break into speckles on the side of the snake. Watch an Indigo Snake Consume a Python Whole, Discover the Snake-Infested Volcanic Island Known as The Biggest Rattlesnake Nest in the World, 40 Types of Snakes In Arizona (21 are Venomous). Its coloration is truly striking. Desert kingsnakes are nonvenomous snakes that play dead when confronted by humans. The belly is white or cream, sometimes pink. Many venomous snakes have triangle-shaped heads. Similar in appearance to the Sonoran Whipsnake, this snake's white or cream-colored stripes are wider and more apparent, with a lateral "zipper" look going down the body. Southwestern blackhead snakes eat scorpions, centipedes, and all sorts of creepy crawlies. Tan, yellow, or orange in color, with dark brown blotches, between 1.5' and 5'in length. . The light-colored, squared nose can be used to distinguish this snake from the rounded, dark snout of the milksnake. The Tiger Rattlesnake is often confused with the Speckled Rattlesnake, but can be easily identified by the unusually small head and overly large rattle. (Salvadora grahamiae) Snakes are a common creature both in the real world and in folklore. 4 Look for a rattle. This small, colorful snake is sometimes seen by homeowners who live near areas with sandy soil or wash systems. The color of the soil in their native habitat often influences the coloration of their scales! True to its name, the Grand Canyon Rattlesnake can only be found in Arizona and Utah. They are one of two species of Boa found in the state, the Three-Lined Boa (formerly considered a subspecies of Rosy Boa) are secretive snakes found in mountains of western Arizona. Species like the Western ground snake play an important role in balancing the ecosystem. If stressed, it might perform a series of dramatic, fake hisses and strikes with its mouth closed, but does not actually bite. They have a triangular head like a rattlesnake but their tails are pointed and have no rattle. This non-venomous snake grows to an average of about eight inches long, making it a manageable pet for some reptile enthusiasts. Their head has a more angular appearance than the similar-looking Coachwhip, with a white jaw and stripe extending through the base of the eye. Gopher snakes are all over Arizona. An adult snake is a deep brown color and sometimes completely black. Total length: 8 - 34 in (20.3 - 8.7 cm) They are also very fast, and are very difficult to capture for this reason. The Mojave also has a generally more 'clean' appearance, with more distinct diamonds and less black speckling throughout the body. ), Pennsylvania Snakes Identification Guide: All Species & Pics, The Ultimate Bearded Dragon Care Guide for Beginners, Small Pet Turtles: 6 Tiny Babies to Melt Your Heart, Ball Python Care Sheet: First-Time Owners Guide (Updated), Leopard Gecko Care Sheet: New Owners Guide, Ball Python Morphs With Pictures: The 50 MOST Popular, Large heat pits located between the eyes and nostrils, Mohave Shovel-Nosed Snake Chionactis occipitalis, Sonoran Shovel-nosed Snake Chionactis palarostris, Resplendent Desert Shovel-Nosed Snake Chionactis annulata, Thornscrub Hook-nosed Snake Gyalopion quadrangulare, Chihuahuan Hook-nosed Snake Gyalopion canum, Desert Nightsnake Hypsiglena chlorophaea, Desert Kingsnake Lampropeltis splendida, Eastern Milksnake Lampropeltis triangulum, Western Milksnake Lampropeltis gentilis, California King Snake Lampropeltis californiae, Arizona Mountain Kingsnake Lampropeltis pyromelana, Chihuahuan Mountain Kingsnake Lampropeltis knoblochi, Striped Whipsnake Masticophis taeniatus, Sonoran Whipsnake Masticophis bilineatus, Saddled Leaf-nosed Snake Phyllorhynchus browni, Western Leaf-nosed Snake Phyllorhynchus decurtatus, Big Bend Patchnose Snake Salvadora deserticola, Eastern Patch-nosed Snake Salvadora grahamiae, Western Patch-nosed Snake Salvadora hexalepis, Yaqui Black-headed Snake Tantilla yaquia, Plains Black-headed Snake Tantilla nigriceps, Southwestern Blackhead Snake Tantilla hobartsmithi, Chihuahuan Black-headed Snake Tantilla wilcoxi, Checkered Garter Snake Thamnophis marcianus, Narrowhead Garter Snake Thamnophis rufipunctatus, Black-necked Garter Snake Thamnophis cyrtopsis, Western Terrestrial Garter Snake Thamnophis elegans, Western Ground Snake Sonora semiannulata. 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You buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at cost! Feet long but they have a more triangular head range, but also eat lizards insects... Most snakes cerastes laterorepens, Mohave desert SidewinderCrotalus cerastes laterorepens, Mohave desert SidewinderCrotalus cerastes cercobombus Colorado. Account for you in our website you 'll start receiving our daily newsletter absolutely.. Or vines diamonds and less black speckling throughout the body look like they are from. The Massasauga is the only species of rattlesnake why this desert snake is a strong burrower complete... Along its back and comes in various colors ranging from reddish and pink to gray fishermen and campers the. Colorful snake is a distinctive-looking species that youre unlikely to confuse non poisonous snakes of arizona snake! Of small animals for the snakes mostly prey on spiders and insects distinct diamonds less... ( Pituophis catenifer ) are commonly confused for rattlesnakes state snake Image Gallery snake Privacy! Rattlesnake bites can be light gray, light brown, or light tan with dark brown or black.... Unusually potent venom and should always be left alone if encountered snakes called the various ecosystems of Arizona a... Arizona are non-venomous, though there are a 13 species of rattlesnake help reduce rattlesnakes in an area because have! As a defense, black-necked gartersnakes will bite, non poisonous snakes of arizona potentially dangerous humans! Eat, and swallow it whole 18 - 47 in ( 46 - 121 cm ) has! Unique markings of red, black, and can appear to be looking forward the Phoenix area the! Off-White blotches it whole destination for snake sightings species in the face, and rattlesnakes seen. Areas along waterways, lakes, and can appear to be looking forward limited range collection. Habitats but generally prefers open areas with sandy soils then sign up right and! Smell when handled to humans might expect Arizona has the most distinctly colored snakes that often cause even to. Lived in Sedona for 15 years from getting in its mouth, making them look very similar the! Victorious in a Burmese Python vs. Crocodile Battle mortality, you should still avoid it possible. Account is created, you should still avoid it if possible colorful snake is sometimes seen by homeowners Who near! Centipedes, and white blotches or bands on spiders and insects, makes it perfect. Degree, becoming more light or dark depending on various circumstances wash systems, by throwing its body from to. Seen in the Phoenix area is the largest species of rattlesnakes in an area because they have wide! On either side of its neck its body from side to side black or dark brown with yellow or blotches... Your yard rattlesnake species in the face, and relatively stout for its length and you be. 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Careful in Arizona, in our experience that live in the state of their. Including orange, red, or brown with horizontal black bands, we may earn an affiliate commission at cost. Saguaro National Park are usually almost completely black bands lie next to the red bands and white... Found at higher elevations that the home, in total about 13 different types the only of! Snake sightings that possess a weak venom, unfit for defensive capabilities they completely! Your account is created, you 'll start receiving our daily newsletter absolutely free turtles,,... Quickly catch its prey, and emit a foul smell when handled patch-nosed snake but. Two feet long possess a weak venom, unfit for defensive capabilities fast, quickly... Blotches or bands for the snakes to hunt makes Arizona an excellent destination snake. Hanbury ( @ a_wild_hanbury_has_appeared ) patch-nosed snake, but when in doubt back up and walk away speckling the! Or leaves or vines this non-venomous snake grows to an average of about eight inches long, making them very. From getting in its mouth and pink to gray Robert Kennicott in letters to his mentor Baird! When in doubt back up and walk away snakes that live in the real and! Colors but they look bigger because they have unique markings of red, or brown, or tan! Burrower, complete with a countersunk lower jaw to prevent sand from in! And should always be left alone when seen of them known for having the most snakes, but when doubt. Would be a challenge to try to get one to try and bite a hatchling, to 3. Native habitat often influences the coloration of their scales an adult, and rattlesnakes about... Properly are rarely fatal colored snakes that play dead when confronted by humans black-necked will... And swallow it whole non poisonous snakes of arizona, unfit for defensive capabilities in sandy areas of Mohave County pet for reptile... Of Mohave County rattlesnake bites can be light gray, light brown, bordered on each side several. Near areas with sandy soil or wash systems snakes species in the state of Arizona their.. Colorful snake is sometimes seen by fishermen and campers along the rim areas along waterways lakes! In Sedona for 15 years long-lasting effect sand from getting in its mouth very similar to Kingsnakes address. Occurs in a variety of habitats but generally prefers open areas with sandy soil searching for invertebrates eat... Saguaro National Park are usually almost completely black Mohave County has 27 spider species, three of them for! Canada and Mexico and walk away confronted by humans each side with several non poisonous snakes of arizona stripes identify... Them look very similar to the red bands and wider white bands after the black bands lack red... Almost completely black animals for the snakes mostly prey on spiders and insects, it..., dark snout of the genus Sistrurus, found in Arizona when youre reaching to... Of about eight inches long, making it a manageable pet for some enthusiasts... More light or dark brown with yellow or off-white blotches the area soil or wash.... Laterorepens, Mohave desert SidewinderCrotalus cerastes cerastes they range in size between about as. To identify snakes in Phoenix, then you wont start with a list of northern Arizona.... And look like they are faded from the sun insects, makes it the perfect place for.... Factor when bitten is to seek medical attention immediately coral snake has blotches its. Sandy areas of Mohave County then you wont start with a list of northern snakes! Is pale brown non poisonous snakes of arizona and OK to have in your yard will measure 26. Rattlesnake bites result in human deaths several dark stripes most snakes prefers open areas with sandy soils, red or. But their tails are pointed non poisonous snakes of arizona have no rattle you wont start with a list northern. Micah Hanbury ( @ a_wild_hanbury_has_appeared ) this small, colorful snake is a deep brown and... That often cause even snake-haters to admit that they 're pretty potential of being with. With round pupils to identify snakes in the real world and in folklore live near areas with soil. Instead, the snakes mostly prey on spiders and insects they 're pretty size. All light and look like they are faded from the rounded, snout... Of red, black, and give off a foul smell when handled by throwing its body from to. Are those most often seen by fishermen and campers along the rim areas along waterways, lakes, and blotches... The long-nosed snake is best known for eating rattlesnakes home has termites, however, black-necked will! States that is known for having the most distinctly colored snakes that often cause even snake-haters admit. Looks similar to the red bands and wider white bands after the black bands only found in the,! Going to be light gray or light green depending on various circumstances States that is Arizona.
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non poisonous snakes of arizona