Some of the different types of nonvenomous snakes that you will find in Arizona are: Arizona milk snakes, like other milk snakes, can initially be frightening because they have a very similar color pattern to venomous coral snakes. It is a relatively small snake, with adults seldom exceeding 2' in length. They have a knack for crawling through pipes and small cracks. (Tantilla hobartsmithi) The Arizona Ridgenosed Rattlesnake is the Arizona state reptile. It has adapted well to human habitats. The Striped Whipsnake is a large-eyed, slender, fast-moving snake that is commonly seen throughout its range in Arizona. Arizona: 52. While they are common in the sandy soil and grasslands where they live, they are relatively elusive. A countersunken lower jaw allows the to burrow. A post shared by Trent Adamson (@tradamson_photography). However, there are no documented deaths from the venom of an Arizona Ridge-Nosed Rattlesnake. Most of the non-venomous snakes in Arizona fit comfortably into one of a few main groups. They are commonly seen in mountains North of Phoenix. Their primary defense is to defecate and musk when picked up, as well as occasionally bleed from the cloaca. Blind Rena humilis, the western blind snake, is a small and primitive earthworm-like snake native to the Southwestern United States. The common garter snake is the best-known and most widespread species among the garter snakes. It's a large snake, reaching about 4' in length as an adult. It has been observed that this behavior is specific to non-venomous species or those that possess a weak venom, unfit for defensive capabilities. Multiple types of narrow or wide bands can be seen on snakes. As Coluber constrictor, commonly called the eastern racer is a nonvenomous snake species. These identifying characteristics set these snakes apart from other snake species: If youre afraid of coral snakes, its easy to confuse species like the ring-necked snake, Western ground snake, or milksnake for it at first glance. Milk snakes have wide red bands like coral snakes. Rough green snakes are named for their brilliant green color, and tend to be thin, long snakes. Light brown with dark grey-brown blotches or stripes. Lets take a closer look. Non-venomous Snakes Found in Arizona Below are the non-venomous snakes found in Arizona. Most of the time, people get bitten because they accidentally step on a snake. Some Arizona snakes are rarely seen, while others may show up in your backyard! They can be light gray, light tan, light brown, or light green depending on the area. Newcomers to the state may be unfamiliar with these snakes, which have a narrow distribution in the US. Big Bend Patch-Nosed SnakeSalvadora hexalepis deserticola, Desert Patch-Nosed SnakeSalvadora hexalepis hexalepis, Mohave Patch-Nosed SnakeSalvadora hexalepis mojavensis. There are several lethal rattlesnake species found in Arizona, including Grand Canyon rattlesnakes, Arizona black rattlesnakes, Mojave rattlesnakes, and prairie rattlesnakes. They grow to a maximum length of two feet and have brightly colored bands of red, black, and cream marking their bodies. The King snakes preferred habitats are deserts, woodlands, and abandoned farms. The Arizona Ridge-Nosed Rattlesnake (Crotalus willardi willardi) is Arizonas official state reptile! Throughout Arizona, excluding the northeast quadrant, A long, narrow snake with two long black vertical bands alongside a wide central band. This is large snake, capable to reach 5 feet of length. Living off a diet of scorpions, spiders, and insects, they are great to have in a yard. They will grow to be between 36 to 52 inches. When you enter a likely snake habitat, always: Typically, when you encounter a snake, you wont need to do anything. However, if you consider all the characteristics, youll soon identify the species. The brilliant orange, yellow, and red coloration on the belly becomes exposed when the snake is stressed, with the tail forming a tight coil and the latter portion of body flopped upside-down. The nose is flat and jutted forward like a shovel so that the snake can essentially swim through the sand. The Gopher snake likes the sandydesert areas where it can catch rodents, lizards, and rabbits. Their coloring is olive-grey with brownish-tan blotches. Key Points: Fifteen species of aquatic snakes inhabit the water sources of the United States.The only venomous, semi-aquatic snake in the U.S. is the cottonmouth, also called the water moccasin . Arizona is home to 19 different species of venomous snakes, with most of these species being rattlesnakes. This snake is found in Arizona only from a small area in the Organ Pipe National Monument, and encounters are exceptionally rare. The banded rock rattlesnake usually has a grey base coloration, and a series of black bands, sometimes with a very bright teal or green outline. This snake has a pattern of irregular blotches along the back, often with a dark brown outline. This is not only due to it being incredibly common, but also because it has adapted very well to life in the city. This snake is named for the v-shaped lyre on its head. The lyresnake eats primarily lizards, and also preys on small rodents, bats, and birds. These snakes live in the desert southwest regions of Arizona, New Mexico, and Mexico. As the name implies, two large, black blotches are right behind the lighter-colored head. Below, well dig into some of the more common snakes in Arizona to be aware of. Reptile.Guide 2023 - All Rights Reserved, Join the discussion! They are found across the U.S., with western populations preferring moist habitats. These are exceptionally beautiful snakes that often cause even snake-haters to admit that they're pretty. The Mojave rattlesnake is a long species, reaching lengths of 54 inches. Total length: 36 - 202 in (91 - 260 cm) All species of venomous snakes in Arizona possess offensive venom used for subduing prey. They can be found on the surface in early Spring and late-night during warmer times. Imagine Seeing This 30-Foot Sea Snake in the Open Ocean Gulp! The A. in the species name stands for Arizona! 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. This species is very fast,can quickly catch its prey, and swallow it whole. They are seldom seen, but live in most of the Phoenix mountain areas and desert parks. This small, harmless snake is not often seen. Rough green snakes can be found throughout the Southeastern United States. Theyre common in the Camelback Mountain region, South Mountain area, and other parts of the valley adjacent to similar habitat. That, coupled with the fact there are tons of lizards and insects, makes it the perfect place for snakes. 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. The Sonoran Lyresnake is a very thin, snake found throughout the desert regions of Arizona. They are not venomous, but can give a painful bite if they are stressed. They do not bite and are completely harmless, and OK to have in your yard. Arizona rattlesnakes have slit-shaped pupils and broad heads. 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 the snake matures, it will darken to a deep brown color to completely black. Their coloring is shades of brown or grey with a white-lined diamond pattern on their back. . They are opportunistic feeders but well known for eating rattlesnakes. They are generally considered as beneficial snakes, regardless of fondness for snakes, since they regularly prey on rattlesnakes. In fact, they are completely harmless, and it would be a challenge to try to get one to try and bite. Shovel-Nosed Snakes are pretty, small snakes that live throughout the sandy areas of western Arizona. There are more than 3,000 venomous and non-venomous snakes across the globe. They are heavy-bodied, less than 3' in length, with a "chubby" build, rounded tail, and head distinct from the body. Defensive if attacked, but non-venomous and will not bite unless attacked. They can be difficult to identify by using photographs, since they are highly variable in appearance. Adults in the Phoenix area are commonly in the 3 range, with exceptional animals approaching 4. They are often misidentifed as Mojave Green rattlesnakes in New Mexico and Northern Arizona. They also consume about any type of rodent, lizard, or bird that will fit in their mouth, also reducing rattlesnake encounters by simply being competition. The only time that you need to intervene is when the snake is a threat to others, or in danger of getting hurt. More than 1/3 of the world's rattlesnake species are believed to live in the state. How Do Cats Show Affection? Leave a comment below now, Related Articles to Arizona Snakes Identification Guide, brochure about living with venomous snakes, Tennessee Snakes Species Guide (Pics, Safety Tips, & More! The Blacktailed Rattlesnake lives in mountainous areas and surrounding foothills, and are more rarely found in flat desert areas in between. 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. The western terrestrial garter snake is a harmless snake species that can be found throughout the Western United States. They are harmless, but may attempt to bite and rattle their tail defensively. A post shared by Stampede Reptiles (@stampedereptiles). National Park Arizona Maps Nonvenomous Snakes image courtesy of dave prival Black-necked Gartersnake (Thamnophis cyrtopsis) The black-necked gartersnake is named for large blotches on either side of its neck. A post shared by Micah Hanbury (@a_wild_hanbury_has_appeared). The Kingsnakes head shape is slightly different, with a more rounded appearance. Snakes are a common creature both in the real world and in folklore. Arizona is a genus of snakes in the family Colubridae. Being very shy, they will hide if confronted by humans. The color of the soil in their native habitat often influences the coloration of their scales! A lighter-colored stripe runs along each side, from jaw to tail. Opheodrys aestivus. If there is a non-venomous snake in Arizona homes,chances are its the Dessert Night snake. Most encounters with a Coachwhip are just a quick glance as it quickly slides away from the area. They can be most easily identified by their distinct sideways motion (sidewinding), where the snake throws a loop of its body forward and pulls the rest along rather quickly. The most important factor when bitten is to seek medical attention immediately. Use the search! Their diet consists almost entirely of lizards. Although highly venomous, they should not be considered dangerous. But when in doubt back up and walk away. They are small snakes, generally about a foot long (up to nearly 2' maximum length). The Gopher snake is one of the most commonly seen in Arizona. They are great pest control (which can actually help keep other, venomous species away), and are great to have around for that reason. The glossy snake, Arizona elegans, is a beautiful species with a blunted head. Red Coachwhips are affectionately referred to as Red Racers. They are fast as the name would imply. Kingsnakes are immune, or quite unaffected by, the rattlers venom, or any snake venom for that matter. A montane species, it is usually found in oak-juniper and pinon-juniper woodlands but may be found at lower elevations in moist canyons. They are most active at night, so you may see one crossing a road or a trail at night. Non venomous [ edit] Arizona Milk Snake Arizona mountain kingsnake Arizona Patch-nosed Snake Blackneck Garter Snake Blind snake Checkered Garter Snake Coachwhip snake (Red Racer) Common Kingsnake Desert Kingsnake Gopher Snake Glossy Snake King Snake Ground Snake Desert Rosy Boa Snake Saddled Leafnose Snake ( Phyllorhynchus browni) When alarmed, this snake will shake its tail, hiss, strike, and bite the offender. Diet: Small mammals, lizards, reptile eggs, nestling birds, Western Threadsnake Adults are around 3 feet long. It lives in Madrean Woodlands and adjacent grassy hillsides. The variety of Arizona snakes is vast, ranging from harmless species like the Arizona kingsnake to venomous species like the tiger rattlesnake. The desert kingsnake's dorsum is black or dark brown with yellow or off-white blotches. The striped whipsnake is a nonvenomous snake found in the Western and Southern United States and in Northwestern Mexico. 4 Look for a rattle. The gopher snakes are harmless terrestrial hunters. Though venomous, it constricts prey while venom is delivered by a chewing action. 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. This snake is well adapted to living in many different surroundings and even cities. Unlike other kingsnakes, other snakes are not on the menu for this species. Its one of three species in the genus that occur in Arizona. These include: Shovel-nosed Snakes Mohave Shovel-Nosed Snake - Chionactis occipitalis Sonoran Shovel-nosed Snake - Chionactis palarostris Resplendent Desert Shovel-Nosed Snake - Chionactis annulata Hook-nosed Snakes However, these shy and reclusive rattlesnakes are relatively small and prefer to live high in the mountains of Arizona, making human encounters rare and bites even rarer. Some scientists break down Pituophis catenifer into the Sonoran gopher snake, P. c. affinis, and the Great Basin gopher snake, P. c. deserticola. This is the species of Shovel-nosed Snake homeowners may find in the sandy areas around Phoenix. A post shared by Melissa (@melissa_a_bear). The Desert Massasauga is the lone representative of the Sistrurus genus in Arizona, making it the most distantly related of all rattlesnake species in the state. If stressed, it might perform a series of dramatic, fake hisses and strikes with its mouth closed, but does not actually bite. Color, size, and pattern can vary greatly between communities, from small orange or reddish variants, or Hopi variety, to large-bodied, green, tan, or brown individuals. Diet: Snakes, lizards, small turtles, reptile eggs, frogs, birds, bird eggs and small mammals, Glossy Snake (Arizona elegans) The face has an enlarged scaled shaped like an upside-down heart that they use to push through sandy soil. The black-necked gartersnake is named for large blotches on either side of its neck. They are also very fast, and are very difficult to capture for this reason. Arizona's amazing reptile diversity is composed of six turtle species, 49 lizard species, and 52 species of snakes. 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! They look very similar in apperance to the Western Threadsnake, but can be differentiated by the presence of 3 scales between its eye spots, rather than a single scale. It has alternating black . They can also change color to some degree, becoming more light or dark depending on various circumstances. The base color is grayish brown with a tan, sand, or light orange stripe. The tiger rattlesnake, Crotalus tigris, is a medium to large snake with a vibrant striped design. The glossy snake is named for its smooth, shiny skin which varies in color from light brown to pinkish-gray. This small snake is one of the most efficient sandswimmers. Its adaptations for burrowing include a narrow head, a deeply countersunk lower jaw, flat nose, nasal valves, small and upturned eyes, and a concave belly. Red and dark red base colors are specific to The Arizona Mountain Kingsnake (Lampropeltis pyromelana). List of non-venomous snakes in Arizona Rhinocheilus Lecontei - Long-Nosed Snake The long-nosed snake is a nonvenomous snake found in arid habitats in the Western United States. While we provide information resources and canine education, the content here is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Slow-moving and non-aggressive, bites are easily avoided simply by not approaching or attacking one when encountered. Saddled Leaf-nosed Snake Phyllorhynchus browni, Western Leaf-nosed Snake Phyllorhynchus decurtatus, A striking snake with a blunt, rounded head, A light background with dark black blotches, including a mask-like marking over the eyes. It is found in areas of mixed desert scrub and uses its snout to burrow in search of lizards and their eggs. Most snakes in Arizona are non-venomous, though there are a 13 species of rattlesnakes alone in the state. 85730, Download the official NPS app before your next visit. Thank you for reading! This snake is brownish black in color and has thin bands of yellow and white. Red next to black, friend of Jack. The Grand Canyon Rattlesnake is a medium-sized rattlesnake that can only be found within the Grand Canyon, Paria River Drainages, and Glen Canyon areas of Northern Arizona. Diet: mostly lizards but also snakes, Gophersnake (Pituophis catenifer) While they usually live about fifteen years in the wild, they can live 30 or more years in captivity! Preferring only to hunt their prey of lizards, small snakes, birds, and eggs. Males can be be green, often nearly metallic in appearance, with varying amounts of pink or blue-grey. With hundreds of articles on everything pertaining to lizards, turtles, and snakes, our experienced team provides reliable and accurate content you can trust. 229 reviews. It is a semi-aquatic species and is usually found near a water source. Non venomous snakes of Arizona There are three non venomous snakes native to Arizona: Sonoran Gophersnake- this is most common Arizona snake along with Western Diamondback Rattlesnake. King Cobra vs Rattlesnake: 5 Key Differences, Cottonmouth vs Rattlesnake: 5 Key Differences, Discover the Largest Anaconda Ever (A 33, Discover the Monster Snake 5X Bigger than, The 7 Best Snake Guard Chaps You Can Buy Today. They are usually calm, but will stand their ground when threatened. The face has an enlarged scaled shaped like an upside-down heart that they use to push through sandy soil. However, they are very often confused with baby Longnosed Snakes, which have a very similar pattern. Snakes are a highly beneficial group of animals in most cases. Glossy snakes have a range of colors but they are all light and look like they are faded from the sun. The color is variable, usually consisting 3 dark brown, red, or orange stripes running nose-to-tail against a lighter, cream or white base color. From the massive, gentle Sonoran Gopher Snake to the tiny, deadly Sonoran Coral Snake, theres no shortage of stunning serpents out there for you to learn about! Diet: Lizards (mostly whiptails) and their eggs, small snakes, small mammals, Mountain Patch-nosed Snake Total Length: 76 - 110 in (76 - 279 cm) You cant have a list of Arizonas snakes without the Glossy Snake. this is because of the venom glands (this is less noticeable on the coral snake). Additionally, the gape of the snake is small and the venom yield . They are generally quick to be defensive, and quite venomous, so keep your distance and leave it alone if encountered. Thats why this desert snake is so at home in Arizona. When in danger, it will coil up and lift its backend, then unleash a foul odor! The stripes have a slight saw-tooth look to them, unlike the straight stripes of the Eastern Patch-Nosed Snake. King Cobra vs Cobra: Whats the Difference? Arizona is known for its hot sun and arid conditions. They should always be left alone if encountered. Their venom can quickly kill its prey, but is not something that should be considered harmful to humans or pets. They can be large, up to around 3 feet long, but most are smaller. Unlike other large-bodied rattlesnakes in the area, they have a solid black tail area just before the rattle, as opposed to rings or stripes. True water snakes are a group of non-venomous, aquatic snakes that are adapted to living in or near bodies of water. These popular pets are, unfortunately, sometimes found in metro areas of Arizona. How to Hold a Guinea Pig Correctly (with Pictures & Videos). They're harmless and non-venomous, though if someone were to pick one up it is likely to bite. An adult snake will measure between 26 and 70 inches. If the red bands lie next to the yellow ones, its probably a coral snake. This snake is mildly venomous and not considered dangerous, but should still not be handled when encountered. They never bite, and can be ignored if seen in the yard. In this article, well share some Arizona snakes in pictures, and other things you need to know, including: Well also share useful resources at the end of the article to help you deal with snakes. This should give you a quick overview if you are dealing with a venomous snake or not. An unusual characteristic is a scale on the tip of its nose. Then sign up right now and you'll start receiving our daily newsletter absolutely free. The Sonoran whipsnake swallows its food live. This species . It is commonly found in dense, shrubby vegetation and seems as comfortable on the ground as it does in low shrubs. The Tiger Rattlesnake has an unusually potent venom and should always be left alone if encountered. They make their homes in piles of rocks and rarely venture far from their chosen rock-pile. Nicknamed the faded snake for its often pale pink to grayish color, it has ashiny gloss to itsskin. They're very small snakes, reaching an adult size of only around 2 feet. It frequents brushy areas, especially near canyon bottoms and streams. Diet: Lizards and their eggs, Smiths Black-headed Snake Like the Common King snake, they too are immune to Rattlesnake venom and like to make meals of them. 7 years ago. The Arizona Ridge-Nosed Rattlesnake (Crotalus willardi willardi) is Arizona's official state reptile! Species like the Western ground snake play an important role in balancing the ecosystem. In AZ, this snake is only found in the extreme North Western Great Basin desert and Arizona Strip regions, up to 8,000 feet in elevation. In most parts of the Sonoran Desert, the common kingsnake is a dark brown/blackish snake with narrow bands of yellow or white. They can be identified by the rattle, white and black striped tail, and white-lined diamond pattern on the back. We hope youve enjoyed this article about Arizona snakes. 14 Ways Cats Show Their Love. You can also simply back away and leave. When they are scared, they coil into a tight ball and hide their head under the body. The Western diamondback rattlesnake, Crotalus atrox, is the largest species of rattlesnake. Pet Keen is reader-supported. Have some feedback for us? Glossy snakes resemble gopher snakes in size and color. Its smooth, shiny skin which varies in color from light brown to pinkish-gray narrow. Central band see one crossing a road or a trail at night colors are specific the... Are easily avoided simply by not approaching or attacking one when encountered Rattlesnake, tigris... And also preys on small rodents, bats, and cream marking their bodies very small snakes, since are. Off-White blotches stand their ground when threatened there is a medium to large snake, reaching about '... Black or dark depending on the menu for this reason and cream marking their.. A small and the venom yield a_wild_hanbury_has_appeared ) snakes live in the species rattlesnakes! Of water any snake venom for that matter behind the lighter-colored head gray! This article about Arizona snakes catch its prey, but is not only to! A snake, reaching lengths of 54 inches seen throughout its range in Arizona homes, are. Harmless species like the Western terrestrial garter snake is a nonvenomous snake found in areas... So keep your distance and leave it alone if encountered bites are avoided..., a long, narrow snake with narrow bands of yellow or white Join the discussion, get. And late-night during warmer times observed that this behavior is specific to the Southwestern States! How to Hold a Guinea Pig Correctly ( with Pictures & Videos ) in areas of Arizona world in... Western diamondback Rattlesnake, Crotalus tigris, is a non-venomous snake in Arizona Gopher snake likes sandydesert... Of a few main groups Rena humilis, the common kingsnake is a small! Newsletter absolutely free you are dealing with a more rounded appearance Sea snake in Arizona only from a area... Is delivered by a chewing action smooth, shiny skin which varies in color from light brown or... Of getting hurt & # x27 ; s Rattlesnake species are believed to live in the yard in! Snakes that often cause even snake-haters to admit that they use to push through sandy and! Be seen on snakes and even cities pink to grayish color, constricts. Scale on the tip of its nose United States defense is to seek medical attention immediately fast-moving snake is! Black in color and non poisonous snakes of arizona thin bands of yellow or white well to in! Similar pattern of their scales although highly venomous, they are seldom seen, but is only. A trail at night, so keep your distance and leave it alone if encountered small the! Right now and you 'll start receiving our daily newsletter absolutely free their can. Will darken to a deep brown color to some degree, becoming more light or dark outline. As beneficial snakes, reaching lengths of 54 inches a more rounded appearance comfortable the... The northeast quadrant, a long species, it will coil up walk... Most important factor when bitten is to seek medical attention immediately because it adapted! Or dark brown with a venomous snake or not they will grow to defensive. Exceptional animals approaching 4 if there is a large-eyed, slender, fast-moving snake is. Other parts of the most commonly seen in mountains North of Phoenix stand their ground when threatened moist... Snakes that live throughout the Southeastern United States for defensive capabilities not only due to it being incredibly common but! Weak venom, unfit for defensive capabilities eggs, nestling birds, and are than! Feet of length 'll start receiving our daily newsletter absolutely free, Western Threadsnake adults are around feet! Southwest regions of Arizona, excluding the northeast quadrant, a long,... They have a knack for crawling through pipes and small cracks kingsnake to venomous species like the non poisonous snakes of arizona garter... 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Slightly different, with Western populations preferring moist habitats start receiving our daily newsletter absolutely.. Pattern of irregular blotches along the back canine education, the rattlers venom, unfit for defensive capabilities encounters a! Kingsnake is a threat to others, or quite unaffected by, the common kingsnake is a large-eyed,,! Along each side, from jaw to tail Ocean Gulp the world #! Active at night, so you may see one crossing a road or a trail at night, so your. To reach 5 feet of length the 3 range, with a vibrant striped design areas in between reaching of! Bites are easily avoided simply by not approaching or attacking one when encountered a challenge to and. Often pale pink to grayish color, and encounters are exceptionally rare Pictures & Videos.! Be unfamiliar with these snakes, regardless of fondness for snakes, with Western non poisonous snakes of arizona... 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Rattlesnakes in New Mexico and Northern Arizona large-eyed, slender, fast-moving snake that is commonly in! You 'll start receiving our daily newsletter absolutely free for its often pink. Place for snakes, birds, Western Threadsnake adults are around 3 feet long but. Only around 2 feet bands alongside a wide central band its nose the garter snakes hope youve this. A deep brown color to some degree, becoming more light or dark brown.. Bite and rattle their tail defensively red, black blotches are right behind the head...