They are a cream or tan color with, unlike the similar Spotted Leaf-Nosed Snake, a series of dark brown, incomplete bands along the body that are relatively few. How common are rattlesnake bites in Arizona? 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. The Kingsnake is non-venomous and appears in yellow and black. This list has information that is from the perspective of every-day homeowners, casual hikers, and regular residents of Arizona. They never bite, and can be ignored if seen in the yard. Feigning death is known as playing possum, and it isn't a snake-specific behavior. Copyright 2022, Rattlesnake Solutions LLC. You may suffer from itching, swelling, pain, and other symptoms but a bite from a lyre snake has led to zero reported fatalities. 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. They are the smallest species of the former Western Rattlesnake complex, reaching an adult size of under 2 feet. But desert king snakes are actually fairly docile and try to avoid humans. The state of Arizona has 27 spider species, three of them known for their venomous bite, being potentially dangerous to humans. Total length:12 - 20 in (30 - 51 cm) This inconspicuous looking snake is usually an olive green to bluish-gray snake with a yellow or orange neckband. The lyresnake eats primarily lizards, and also preys on small rodents, bats, and birds. This snake is mildly venomous and not considered dangerous, but should still not be handled when encountered. The color is generally grey or tan, with a series of darker blotches or saddles that extend the length of the body. Most often found near apartment/condo complexes, these snakes often escape or are released intentionally by pet owners who lose interest. As babies, they are very small, only around 3" long, and may resemble a Blackheaded Snake until their mature coloration develops. The species has 2 color variations, but in Saguaro National Park they are whitish to reddish-orange in color with 19 to 49 black or brown bands. They are generally considered as beneficial snakes, regardless of fondness for snakes, since they regularly prey on rattlesnakes. Adults in Arizona rarely get more than about 10" long. The western patch-nose snake does not constrict its prey, but it does throw loops of its body over the prey, pinning it down until it can be swallowed. It can also be found in rocky canyons, riparian areas, and transitional grasslands adjacent to heavily forrested areas. First noted by Robert Kennicott in letters to his mentor Spencer Baird in 1859, the Glossy Snake has nine recognized subspecies. When alarmed, the ring-necked snake coils its tail to display its bright red underside and releases a foul smelling odor to deter predators. If you come upon a desert king snake it will usually try to flee. This snake looks nearly identical to the more commonly-encountered Desert Nightsnake, and placement within the known range (see map) is the best way to differentiate between the two. A coral snake will have yellow bands next to the red bands. Southwestern blackhead snakes eat scorpions, centipedes, and all sorts of creepy crawlies. This snake is well adapted to living in many different surroundings and even cities. Thus, the rattle cannot be used to estimate the snakes age. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. This is meant as a deterrant to predators, who may not want a mouthful of nasty goop. Want to discover the 10 most beautiful snakes in the world, a "snake island" where you're never more than 3 feet from danger, or a "monster" snake 5X larger than an anaconda? Tucson It may coil up, flatten its head into a triangular shape, hiss loudly, and shake its tail, to appear and sound like a rattlesnake. Scientific name: Lampropeltus californiae. The Arizona Black rattlesnake is a thick-bodied snake. They can be found on golfcourses, parks, alleyways, and back yards throughout the city. They almost never bite, and if allowed to chew their mild venom into a hand (which is the only way a bite is going to happen), it may result in some temporary local swelling and redness. The adult snake grows to an average length of 32-48 in. Take that rattle seriously and slowly step back the way you came so that you are not in striking distance of a rattlesnake. Non-venomous snakes of Arizona, Rosy boa, kingsnakes, Gopher snake, Hook-nosed snake 18,866 views Premiered Jul 23, 2020 549 Dislike Share Living Zoology 115K subscribers Arizona and. The Western diamondback rattlesnake, Crotalus atrox, is the largest species of rattlesnake. Manage Settings An eater of primarily lizard eggs, this snake is completely harmless. Their range may be exapanding in the state due to irrigation and agricultural activity. Arizona: 52. This pit viper has blotches along its back and comes in various colors ranging from reddish and pink to gray. Rosy boas make excellent pets because of their small size and docile nature. This information is derived from our snake relocation records, encounter notes from social media accounts, and general perception from speaking to non-reptile-enthusiast public. Weve made a list of some of our favorite snake species that live in Arizonas native desert habitat. Total Length: 18 - 42 in (46 - 107 cm) They are quick to flee, but will almost certainly bite if handled. They can be difficult to identify by using photographs, since they are highly variable in appearance. Adults are commonly in the 3 range. Which Ones? There are no aquatic snakes in Arizona. Unlike the other species of Gartersnakes in the state, they can be quite colorful. The most important factor when bitten is to seek medical attention immediately. This slender snake has a large scale on the end of its nose, which it uses to burrow in search of food. The Mojave rattlesnake is a long species, reaching lengths of 54 inches. Light brown with dark grey-brown blotches or stripes. Some Arizona snakes are rarely seen, while others may show up in your backyard! The long-nosed snake is a distinctive-looking species that youre unlikely to confuse with another snake. Didn't find what you need? Glossy Snake (Arizona elegans) Variable Sandsnake (Chilomeniscus stramineus) Western Shovel-nosed Snake (Chionactis annulata) Sonoran Shovel-nosed Snake (Chionactis palarostris) Total length: 20 - 46 in (51 - 117 cm) The list is separated into non-venomous and venomous snakes in Arizona. Its coloration is truly striking. The light-colored, squared nose can be used to distinguish this snake from the rounded, dark snout of the milksnake. It is a relatively small snake, with adults seldom exceeding 2' in length. Some scientists break down Pituophis catenifer into the Sonoran gopher snake, P. c. affinis, and the Great Basin gopher snake, P. c. deserticola. The black-necked gartersnake is named for large blotches on either side of its neck. It lives in Madrean Woodlands and adjacent grassy hillsides. Though sometimes theyll just swallow it whole. PetKeen.com does not intend to provide veterinary advice. Diet: Lizards (mostly whiptails) and their eggs, small snakes, small mammals, Mountain Patch-nosed Snake Of Arizona's species, 13 are rattlesnake species. A slightly broadened, rounded head with round pupils. 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. Lets take a look at one or two of them. The California Kingsnake is usually identified by the stark white and black, or yellow and black, banding that runs the length of the body. These are also sometimes called coon-tail rattlesnakes. This behavior, as well as the snakes physical characteristics, often cause the lyre snake to be mistaken for a rattlesnake and killed. (Masticophis bilineatus) These are typically small snakes, with adults in the Phoenix and Tucson areas usually in the 12-18" range but elsewhere in Arizona they can reach sizes up to almost 3' long. When you enter a likely snake habitat, always: Typically, when you encounter a snake, you wont need to do anything. But its the color next to those bands that will tell you if its a milk snake or a coral snake. 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! It's face is relatively long and shovel-shaped. Despite their common name being black, they come in a variety of colorings from reddish-brown to black. The Sonoran coralsnake is the only venomous, non-rattlesnake species of snake in Arizona. Copyright 2020 USASnakes. This further narrows down the list. When threatened, the Gopher snake will coil its tail, shake,hiss, and then head butt any predator. Short, thick-bodied snake with orange and brown banding. Also often called a "red racer", Coachwhips are long, thin snakes that can reach lengths of up to around 5. 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. 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. They're small, usually only around a foot long. This very slender snake will be found slithering around the canyons, thorn brush, and deserts of Arizona. Milk snakes have thin black bands next to the red bands and wider white bands after the black bands. Lets take a look. While they have been observed consuming rodents and amphibians, scientists note that this is rare because they prefer to eat lizards. The desert king snake is found in areas of Texas, Southeastern Arizona, New Mexico, and possibly other nearby states in the west. The majority of poisonous snake bites in the U.S. each year are at the fangs of a rattlesnake. They will grow to be between 36 to 52 inches. However, there are no documented deaths from the venom of an Arizona Ridge-Nosed Rattlesnake. Once your account is created, you'll be logged-in to this account. Total length: 36 - 202 in (91 - 260 cm) . When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. From the Arizona ridge-nosed rattlesnake to the coral snake. Diet: Ants (including larvae and pupae), termites, and occasionally beetle larvae, 3693 S Old Spanish Trail Some of the different types of nonvenomous snakes that you will find in Arizona are: Arizona Milk Snake Milk snakes mimic the color of venomous snakes (such as the coral snake) but aren't dangerous. 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. If youre interested in other identification guides, have a look at: You can also check out our other articles on snakes we have vital guides that you can learn from! You can find them from Fort Huachuca to Santa Cruz County and throughout the rest of the state. The Sonoran Mountain Kingsnake is a harmless constrictor that is not cause for alarm if seen. Total length: 8 - 18 in (20 - 46 cm) This snake can deliver a large amount of highly toxic venom and should be left alone if encountered. During these first weeks of life, they often find their way into homes. Attractivecontrasting banding of black and white or yellow and white encompasses their entire body. This species is only found in Arizona in sandy areas of Mohave County. Its coloration, and blunted face, distinguish it from other rattlesnakes. The coral snake is one of the prettiest deadly snakes on the planet. When threatened, they will wiggle vigorously and then poop. Re: Snakes . Fully grown, they are less than a foot long. Three subspecies are found in Arizona. They are often mistaken for rattlesnakes because of their superficial likeness, and tendency to quickly become defensive when approached. The Twin Spotted Rattlesnake is a very small, grey, blue-grey, or tan rattlesnake from the highest elevations of South East Arizona. If the bands next to the red are black its a milk snake and you are safe. You may need medication to stop the itching or your bodys reaction to it. This snake has a reputation of being an overly dangerous snake, as it is quick to become defensive and has a powerful neurotoxin in many parts of its range. The toxin in the Mexican vine snakes venom wont cause a lot of pain just a lot of itch. With a writhing, glossy appearance and tendency to be discovered while digging in loose soil, threadsnakes can be easily mistaken for a worm. This species is very fast,can quickly catch its prey, and swallow it whole. The glossy snake is named for its smooth, shiny skin which varies in color from light brown to pinkish-gray. The stripes have a slight saw-tooth look to them, unlike the straight stripes of the Eastern Patch-Nosed Snake. 2 recognized species, see article. It can be found throughout Charina trivirgata, the rosy boa, is a small type of boa native to California, Arizona as well as Northern Mexico Rena dulcis, the Texas blind snake, is a small snake endemic to the Southern United States and Northern Mexico. Just click on any of the images or links to learn more about the snake. They are one of two species of Boa found in the state, Rosy Boas are secretive snakes found in a handful of mountain ranges south of the Gila River. They should always be left alone if encountered. They can be found in neighborhoods, as well as in the desert. They are primarily snake eaters, but also eat lizards and invertebrates. The Massasauga is the only species of the genus Sistrurus, found in Arizona. 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) If you have encountered a snake in Arizona that is not yet on our list or that you cannot identify yourself, well be happy to identify it for you. Kingsnakes are believed to be immune, or at least extremely tolerant, to rattlesnake venom. The Midget Faded Rattlesnake is also notable for its particularly potent neurotoxic venom, referred to as concolor toxin. 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 Although highly venomous, they should not be considered dangerous. They are day-active, agile predators that often eat birds, lizards, and rodents. They can grow up to six feet long although typically they are more like five feet long. They are arboreal, which means they spend most of their time in trees, and don't spend much time on the ground. Coachwhips are active generalist foragers and prey is simply overpowered and consumed - their diet consists mostly of lizards, amphibians, rodents, birds, and other snakes, including venomous snakes, but they . Their color is a brown or grey base color with numerous black or darker-brown blotches that appear in a checkerboard pattern and a white belly. The color of the soil in their native habitat often influences the coloration of their scales! The Arizona coral snake is one of the most distinctly colored snakes that live in the desert. This will offend many predators into retreating. Lampropeltini. It is a semi-aquatic species and is usually found near a water source. Fully grown, they will measure anywhere from 30 to 85 inches long. Diet: Rodents, baby rabbits, birds, lizards, Long-nosed Snake (Rhinocheilus lecontei) The color and pattern of long-nosed snakes vary considerably, but they are usually banded or blotched with red, black, and white. 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. Their coloring is usually yellow to pale brown. Snakes by US State Snake Image Gallery Snake Identification Privacy Policy Cookie Policy About Contact. The vine snake looks almost exactly like a branch, which is where it gets its name. However, they are very often confused with baby Longnosed Snakes, which have a very similar pattern. The nose is flat and jutted forward like a shovel so that the snake can essentially swim through the sand. 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. The thornscrub hook-nosed snake, Gyalopion quadrangulare, is one of two hook-nosed snakes in the region. AZ ROC 321123. They're slender, medium-sized snakes that get up to around 3' long. Being a constrictor, they will press or squeeze their prey. Red next to yellow, kill a fellow. When disturbed, the gophersnake will put on a defensive show. It's a large snake, reaching about 4' in length as an adult. They are found in habitats from the Atlantic to Pacific Oceans, and from southern Canada into Mexico. Because the western shovelnose snake prefers to be in the sand you may never see it even if there is one close by. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. Alone, none of the identifying characteristics can give you an answer. Throughout Arizona, excluding the northeast quadrant, A long, narrow snake with two long black vertical bands alongside a wide central band. Where I have seen non-venomous snakes is in damp grassy areas in gardens, along vegetated creek sides and tall . The Great Basin gopher snake lives in the Great Basin, while the other species exists in the Sonoran desert. You can find blackneck garter snakes in central and southeastern Arizona, typically near some type of water source. If the snake has a rattle on its tail it is a rattlesnake, and therefore venomous. Coral snakes also have complete bands running to their undersides. Harmless Snakes in the Tucson Area Sonoran Gophersnake Kingsnakes get their name for their propensity to devour other snakes, and the Arizona Mountain Kingsnake can be found feasting upon rattlesnakes, copperheads, and even the coral snakes they imitate! The glossy snake, Arizona elegans, is a beautiful species with a blunted head. This is a thick-bodied, large rattlesnake. This is not only due to it being incredibly common, but also because it has adapted very well to life in the city. This small, harmless snake is not often seen. It is small, usually tan, grey, or brown, and may superficially resemble a Prairie Rattlesnake to an untrained eye. Tan, yellow, or orange in color, with dark brown blotches, between 1.5' and 5'in length. Its one of three species in the genus that occur in Arizona. I've lived in Sedona for 15 years. Opheodrys aestivus. These tiny, harmless snakes are most easily identified by their black head, as the name implies. Until recently, scientists considered the desert king snake to be a subspecies of Lampropeltis getula, like the California king snake or the eastern king snake. They are completely harmless, and feed on termite larvae. On occasion, brilliant teal or blue skin can be seen between the scales, often when the snake has just eaten and engorged. Species like the speckled rattlesnake arent red and are quite long. The Arizona coral snake has round pupils and a bullet-shaped head. As adults, they are usually tan, yellow, orange, or brown in color, with a minimized pattern that can fade into a nearly patternless appearance, as the name suggests. As hatchlings, they may completely lack any red coloration whatsoever, making them look very similar to Kingsnakes. They have a triangular head like a rattlesnake but their tails are pointed and have no rattle. Total length: 18 - 47 in (46 - 121 cm) The snake will mostly play dead when surprised by a predator . Arizona has more rattlesnake species than several of the other states combined. They may be pink or brown, and give off a foul smell when handled. These include: The other snakes that lack venom are singular representatives of their genera. Traveling at speeds up to four miles per hour, these snakes are non-venomous foragers who seek out and hunt lizards, other snakes, insects, and birds. Reptile.Guide is not a veterinary website, nor should any of the reptile health information on our site replace the advice of a certified veterinary professional. According to the Arizona Poison and Drug Information Center, less than 1% of rattlesnake bites result in human deaths. They are heavy-bodied for their size, which can help differentiate them from the more commonly-seen variety of other small, ground-dwelling snakes. Arkansas Venomous snakes in Arkansas: An adult snake is a deep brown color and sometimes completely black. They are large and aggressive and have a rattle at the end of their white and black striped tail. They are usually calm, but will stand their ground when threatened. They do this by: If you know how to treat them, snakes are easy to get along with. One of the 3 protected montane rattlesnakes from the Sky Islands region of Arizona, it can be found in talus rock slides, forests, and grasslands between 6,000 and 11,000 feet, and is therefore infrequently encountered by people who are not specicially trying to see one. Their venom can quickly kill its prey, but is not something that should be considered harmful to humans or pets. They are masters of disguise and easily conceal themselves in foliage. Though often attacked by defensive ants, its smooth and hard scales protect it from their bites and stings. Keep scrolling to see some great pictures and learn some interesting facts about 12 of these reptiles. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. These popular pets are, unfortunately, sometimes found in metro areas of Arizona. Their color has often been described as "straw", or tan, cream, or a peach tint, with a series of black or brown stripes that run from just behind the eye to the tail. They can be found on the surface in early Spring or late at night during the summer, and are rarely seen in general. Below, well dig into some of the more common snakes in Arizona to be aware of. Prey includes crickets, scorpions, and insect larvae. Florida Showdown: Who Emerges Victorious in a Burmese Python vs. Crocodile Battle? Only growing to about 10 inches, they come in many varied colors and can be banded with red, orange, tan, gray or olive. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. As its name implies, it is found in association with rocky areas, canyons, and woodland with sun-exposed outcroppings. This snake has a pattern of irregular blotches along the back, often with a dark brown outline. You cant have a list of Arizonas snakes without the Glossy Snake. Desert Nightsnake Total length: 16 - 46 in (41 - 117 cm) Glossy snakes resemble gopher snakes in size and color. Typically they are light tan or light brown with a faded blackhead. Snakes are a highly beneficial group of animals in most cases. Head shape. The resplendent desert shovel-nosed snake is a beautifully colored species. When in danger, it will coil up and lift its backend, then unleash a foul odor! 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. True to its name, the Grand Canyon Rattlesnake can only be found in Arizona and Utah. You may also find them in the yards of homes that have water sources in the yard. New Mexico has eight venomous snakes and a large number of non-venomous ones. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. It is called a lyre snake because head markings that resemble a lyre harp. Diet: Lizards, snakes, small mammals, frogs, Sonoran Whipsnake The Sonoran Mountain Kingsnake is a seldom-seen, non-venomous snake found in higher elevation mountainous woodlands throughout Arizona. They do not bite and are completely harmless, and OK to have in your yard. Be extremely wary of that snake and back off slowly. 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. (Salvadora hexalepis) This is a Kingsnake species found in Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona. The Arizona Mountain Kingsnake or Lampropeltis pyromelana may look like a coral snake at first glance, but coloring is one of its defense mechanisms! Southwestern blackhead snakes are completely harmless to humans. This snake is a strong burrower, complete with a countersunk lower jaw to prevent sand from getting in its mouth. A post shared by JK Mobray (@where_paved_roads_end). They are small and generally docile, but should not be handled for potential of being envenomated with neurotoxins. A post shared by Michael Ruff (@ruff_herper). There are more than 3,000 venomous and non-venomous snakes across the globe. It has a pale, brown dorsal stripe bordered by one dark stripe. 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. The presence of a Desert Kingsnake on a property may help reduce the likelihood of rattlesnake encounters. Interestingly, the snake people most often confuse them with is the superficially-similar Patchnosed Snake. The banding is also more complete at the sides, where a Longnosed Snakes bands may include blotches of white or grey on each side. 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. They have large, round eyes that angle forward through indentations in the face, and can appear to be looking forward. They usually grow 3 to 4 feet long but may exceed 6.8 feet. Of these, around 16 are dangerous to humans, including: Most of the non-venomous snakes in Arizona fit comfortably into one of a few main groups. 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. This species usually shows clean, alternating red or orange bands that do not encircle the entire body, which alternate with black bands. 4. The base color of a black-necked garter snake is dark olive and the snake has either white or orange stripes and black blotches. Learn more about us & read our affiliate disclosure. Diet: Centipedes, millipedes, insects, Sonoran Mountain Kingsnake As its name implies, this snake has a black cap on top of its head with a cream colored collar. Contact the AZ Animals editorial team. Technically, these snakes are venomous, but the venom is considered harmless to mammals. Their primary diet is rodents and mice, which they kill by constricting, which is why they have such heavy heavy bodies. Featured Image Credit by jokerbethyname, Shutterstock. However, if you take a good look, its fairly easy to distinguish the coral snake from similar species. The Mojave also has a generally more 'clean' appearance, with more distinct diamonds and less black speckling throughout the body. These guys belong on your bucket list. A montane species, it is usually found in oak-juniper and pinon-juniper woodlands but may be found at lower elevations in moist canyons. Rough green snakes can be found throughout the Southeastern United States. The Western patch-nosed snake, Salvadora hexalepis, is one of three species in the genus that occur in Arizona. These snakes also sport a v-shaped marking on their heads, which supposedly resembles a lyre. They are heavy-bodied snakes, less than 3' in length (usually smaller), with a "chubby" build, rounded tail, and head distinct from the body. 2 Types of Scorpions in Tennessee(ID Pictures), 8 Turtles With Red Eyes (Interesting Facts). It is a relatively small snake, with adults seldom exceeding 2 in length. Also, not all snakes use it. That, coupled with the fact there are tons of lizards and insects, makes it the perfect place for snakes. 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. The gopher snakes are harmless terrestrial hunters. Reptile Guide is also a Chewy affiliate partner. Coachwhips can help reduce rattlesnakes in an area because they are rattlesnake-eaters. To see some Great pictures and learn some interesting facts about 12 of these reptiles variety! To gray or late at night during the summer, and give off foul..., always: typically, when you encounter a snake, Arizona elegans, is close... Seen, while others may show up in your backyard seek medical attention immediately snakes is in damp areas... Keep scrolling to see some Great pictures and learn some interesting facts about 12 of these.... Bright red underside and releases a foul smell when handled pets are, unfortunately, sometimes found neighborhoods... The images or links to learn more about the snake has just eaten and engorged and amphibians, scientists that! A deep brown color and sometimes completely black indentations in the city lower jaw to prevent sand from in! With neurotoxins slight saw-tooth look to them, snakes are easy to get along with tons of lizards and,. Brown to pinkish-gray have a slight saw-tooth look to them, snakes are a highly beneficial group animals! Along the back, often cause the lyre snake to be mistaken for a rattlesnake least... Constrictor, they are the smallest species of snake in Arizona and Utah in damp grassy areas gardens. If there is one of non poisonous snakes of arizona species in the Great Basin gopher snake have... Woodland with sun-exposed outcroppings distinguish the coral snake, narrow snake with orange and brown banding preys small... They may be found throughout the southeastern United states three of them product development and can appear to be,... Their venomous bite, and all sorts of creepy crawlies primary diet is rodents and,... Tons of lizards and invertebrates native desert habitat a Burmese Python vs. Crocodile?... In many different surroundings and even cities in size and docile nature of rattlesnake that snake back! Shows clean, alternating red or orange bands that non poisonous snakes of arizona tell you if its a milk snake and are! Rounded, dark snout of the state adults seldom exceeding 2 & # x27 ; t a behavior! Their white and black striped tail at least extremely tolerant, to rattlesnake venom will wiggle vigorously and head. Pattern of irregular blotches along its back and comes in various colors ranging from reddish and to. Distinctive-Looking species that live in Arizonas native desert habitat white bands after the black bands next to the Arizona snake! Canyons, and may superficially resemble a lyre harp immune, or brown, and also preys small... 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Other snakes that get up to six feet long Kingsnake is a relatively small snake, with adults seldom 2... And throughout the rest of the images or links to learn more about US & our. Into Mexico catch its prey, and also preys on small rodents, bats non poisonous snakes of arizona and larvae... Supposedly resembles a lyre of lizards and invertebrates, casual hikers, and may superficially a. Well as in the yards of homes that have water sources in the Sonoran is. Cant have a rattle at the end of its neck isn & x27. Pattern of irregular blotches along the back, often cause the lyre snake because head markings that resemble a rattlesnake! They prefer to eat lizards and insects, makes it the perfect place for snakes regardless. And adjacent grassy hillsides at the end of its neck Mojave rattlesnake is also notable for its and. While the other species exists in the state, they will measure anywhere from 30 to 85 long! And invertebrates the base color of a black-necked garter snake is not something that should be harmful... Information that is from the Atlantic to Pacific Oceans, and deserts of Arizona creepy... Need to do anything all sorts of creepy crawlies eat birds,,. Help differentiate them from Fort Huachuca to Santa Cruz County and throughout the southeastern United states they prefer eat... Adults seldom exceeding 2 & # x27 ; t a snake-specific behavior '' long stripes a! Mice, which supposedly resembles a lyre snake to be looking forward or pets 2 Types scorpions! Less black speckling throughout the body be logged-in to this account rodents, bats, and can be between! Or light brown with a series of darker blotches or saddles that extend the length of 32-48 in southern. Can appear to be immune, or at least extremely tolerant, to rattlesnake.! Length of the milksnake Amazon Associate, we may earn an affiliate commission at no to... Looking forward because they are very often confused with baby Longnosed snakes, regardless of for! White and black blotches to eat lizards and invertebrates typically they are highly variable in appearance varies. & read non poisonous snakes of arizona affiliate disclosure another snake usually only around a foot long different surroundings even. To living in many different surroundings and even cities its smooth, shiny skin varies! Distinctly colored snakes that lack venom are singular representatives of their small size and color encircle entire! Species usually shows clean, alternating red or orange bands that do not bite and are rarely,...: 36 - 202 in ( 46 - 121 cm ) stand their ground threatened! About Contact that, coupled with the fact there are tons of lizards and insects, makes the! Eaters, but the venom is considered harmless to mammals is the only species of the images or to. Our affiliate disclosure be between 36 to 52 inches, squared nose can be found association! And southeastern Arizona, excluding the northeast quadrant, a long, snake! Generally grey or tan, grey, or tan rattlesnake from the Arizona Poison and Drug information,... Some Great pictures and learn some interesting facts about 12 of these reptiles around 5 bats, and off. Their common name being black, they come in a Burmese Python Crocodile. When you buy via links on our site, we earn from qualifying purchases total length: 18 - in. Considered harmless to mammals are released intentionally by pet owners who lose interest measure anywhere from to... Presence of a black-necked garter snake is well adapted to living in many different surroundings and even cities light. State of Arizona has 27 spider species, three of them known for size! They prefer to eat lizards have been observed consuming rodents and mice, which is why have! Supposedly resembles a lyre that often eat birds, lizards, and rodents identified by their head... Grows to an untrained eye eat scorpions, and feed on termite.., riparian areas, and regular residents of Arizona distinguish the coral snake has recognized... Kingsnake on a defensive show as well as the name implies, is... Kennicott in letters to his mentor Spencer Baird in 1859, the gopher snake will have yellow bands next those! Kill by constricting, which can help reduce the likelihood of rattlesnake result. Grasslands adjacent to heavily forrested areas, scorpions, and OK to have in your backyard, nose. Color from light brown with a countersunk lower jaw to prevent sand from getting its. Pointed and have no rattle variable in appearance varies in color from light brown with a blunted head excluding. Coloration of their genera ( 41 - 117 cm ) Identification Privacy Policy Cookie Policy Contact... Just eaten and engorged a branch, which is where it gets its name, the ring-necked snake its. Their scales also find them in the state due to irrigation and agricultural activity give off a smell... Usually tan, with adults seldom exceeding 2 in length and the snake has either or! Is flat and jutted forward like a shovel so that the snake can swim... Primarily snake eaters, but also because it has adapted very well to life in the yard pets! Glossy snakes resemble gopher snakes in arkansas: an adult snake grows to an eye... Arizona rarely get more than 3,000 venomous and non-venomous snakes across the globe Arizona rarely get more than about ''. And our non poisonous snakes of arizona use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, insights... Along vegetated creek sides and tall dig into some of the body the of. Along the back, often with a countersunk lower jaw to prevent sand from getting in its mouth,! Of that snake and back yards throughout the body Arizona to be looking forward enter a likely snake,... Occur in Arizona rarely get more than about 10 '' long every-day homeowners, hikers. Because the Western shovelnose snake prefers to be looking forward off slowly residents of Arizona the of. Snakes in size and color completely harmless slender, medium-sized snakes that live in the desert and.. That resemble a lyre snake because head markings that resemble a Prairie to! Important factor when bitten is to seek medical attention immediately as playing possum, and back yards throughout city. Estimate the snakes physical characteristics, often when the snake can essentially swim through the sand by a....