Desert kingsnakes are nonvenomous snakes that play dead when confronted by humans. 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 Head shape. This further narrows down the list. 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. Diet: Lizards (mostly whiptails) and their eggs, small snakes, small mammals, Mountain Patch-nosed Snake It may coil up, flatten its head into a triangular shape, hiss loudly, and shake its tail, to appear and sound like a rattlesnake. The nose is flat and jutted forward like a shovel so that the snake can essentially swim through the sand. There are also many slightly-venomous, but not dangerous, colubrids. Wandering GartersnakeThamnophis elegans vagrans, Arizona Wandering GartersnakeThamnophis elegans arizonae. They usually grow 3 to 4 feet long but may exceed 6.8 feet. It is a relatively small snake, with adults seldom exceeding 2' in length. Copyright 2020 USASnakes. Diet: Small mammals, birds, bird and reptile eggs, lizards, snakes, frogs, insects, carrion, Common Kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula) They are great pest control (which can actually help keep other, venomous species away), and are great to have around for that reason. When born, the pattern is highly contrasted but fades as the snake grows. Most blackneck snakes are between four and five feet long and they have thin narrow bodies. They are primarily snake eaters, but also eat lizards and invertebrates. They can be found on the surface in early Spring or late at night during the summer, and are rarely seen in general. It can also be found in rocky canyons, riparian areas, and transitional grasslands adjacent to heavily forrested areas. Some scientists break down Pituophis catenifer into the Sonoran gopher snake, P. c. affinis, and the Great Basin gopher snake, P. c. deserticola. A secretive, nocturnal snake, it prefers the loose soils of dry riverbottoms. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. The coral snake is one of the prettiest deadly snakes on the planet. 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. This small rattlesnake is found near foothills and mountainous areas, or in flats between them. When you enter a likely snake habitat, always: Typically, when you encounter a snake, you wont need to do anything. Level Contributor . Sidewinders have a famous name and are extremely common where they are found, yet are quite uncommon to see for most. Always be extremely careful in Arizona when youre reaching out to touch trees or leaves or vines. The place we have most often been called out to retrive them from is the garage, where they get stuck in glue traps or are found under boxes in the Spring. The desert kingsnake is a large black snake with yellow crossbands or spreckles. Theyre only about eight inches long. The most common rattlesnake in the Phoenix area is the Western Diamondback. They even regulate their body temperatures by moving up or down in the pile rather than basking in the sun like other snakes. Diet: mostly lizards but also snakes, Gophersnake (Pituophis catenifer) The long-nosed snake is a distinctive-looking species that youre unlikely to confuse with another snake. Many other non-venomous species of snake can be found at Stone Canyon as well including the following: Glossy Snake (Arizona Elegans . A gophersnake is great free pest control. Rough green snakes can be found throughout the Southeastern United States. When alarmed, the ring-necked snake coils its tail to display its bright red underside and releases a foul smelling odor to deter predators. During these first weeks of life, they often find their way into homes. Anytime you are camping, hiking, or just doing work outdoors in Arizona, youll want to be aware of the snakes that pose more of a danger in outdoor environments. They're harmless and non-venomous, though if someone were to pick one up it is likely to bite. We also get your email address to automatically create an account for you in our website. Newcomers to the state may be unfamiliar with these snakes, which have a narrow distribution in the US. However, these critters dont even like to bite anything! When you login first time using a Social Login button, we collect your account public profile information shared by Social Login provider, based on your privacy settings. They can be found on the surface in early Spring and late-night during warmer times. In those cases, its best to contact a wildlife trapper. A large adult diamondback in our area would be in the 3.5 to 4 range, with most being smaller. It lives across Arizonas desert and grassland regions below the Mogollon rim, and is common throughout its range, despite being rarely seen on the surface. More distantly, it is sometimes mistaken for a coralsnake. They may be pink or brown, and give off a foul smell when handled. These are exceptionally beautiful snakes that often cause even snake-haters to admit that they're pretty. They will eat anything they can catch, and often spend the day searching for frogs and toads and rodents along waterways. This species of Shovel-Nosed Snake are small, as are the other Shovel-nosed Snakes with white or cream and black bands and no red or orange. The black-necked gartersnake is named for large blotches on either side of its neck. There are several lethal rattlesnake species found in Arizona, including Grand Canyon rattlesnakes, Arizona black rattlesnakes, Mojave rattlesnakes, and prairie rattlesnakes. Discover alligator-eating snakes, spiders larger than your phone, and 1000 more incredible animals in our daily FREE email. Didn't find what you need? 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. Learn more. Lets take a closer look. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Red Coachwhips are affectionately referred to as Red Racers. They are fast as the name would imply. The Sonoran Mountain Kingsnake is a harmless constrictor that is not cause for alarm if seen. Unlike the other species of Gartersnakes in the state, they can be quite colorful. Many venomous snakes have triangle-shaped heads. An adult snake will measure between 26 and 70 inches. It prefers areas with sandy soils. Just click on any of the images or links to learn more about the snake. The A. in the species name stands for Arizona! To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. Theyre common in the Camelback Mountain region, South Mountain area, and other parts of the valley adjacent to similar habitat. Kingsnakes are believed to be immune, or at least extremely tolerant, to rattlesnake venom. The body alternates between black bands over an orange or cream-colored base, usually fading from a rich orange color on the back to lighter colors below. The color is generally grey or tan, with a series of darker blotches or saddles that extend the length of the body. Living off a diet of scorpions, spiders, and insects, they are great to have in a yard. There was a brief attempt in 1993 to move the Rosy boa to a different genus because they share some characteristics with the Rubber boa. Florida Showdown: Who Emerges Victorious in a Burmese Python vs. Crocodile Battle? It frequents brushy areas, especially near canyon bottoms and streams. Though its only found in Arizona and Utah, it can be found in several habitats within these areas, including forests, cliff slopes, grasslands, and, of course, around the rims and floor of the Grand Canyon. Rattlesnakes are the most common venomous snakes of Arizona and are fairly easy to identify. Glossy snakes have a range of colors but they are all light and look like they are faded from the sun. Patterns vary but most have base colors of black, brown, or tan. The California Kingsnake is usually identified by the stark white and black, or yellow and black, banding that runs the length of the body. If you come upon a desert king snake it will usually try to flee. If youre trying to identify snakes in Phoenix, then you wont start with a list of northern Arizona snakes. The belly is white or cream, sometimes pink. Then sign up right now and you'll start receiving our daily newsletter absolutely free. This snake species is commonly seen anywhere there is loose soil and rocky terrain. The Mojave is very commonly seen in flat, sandy desertscrub areas, and less likely seen in mountainous or rocky regions. 4. Though often attacked by defensive ants, its smooth and hard scales protect it from their bites and stings. Search our database of over 12264 posts with up-to-date information from our experts and veterinarians. The Western patch-nosed snake, Salvadora hexalepis, is one of three species in the genus that occur in Arizona. The Gopher snake likes the sandydesert areas where it can catch rodents, lizards, and rabbits. The stripes running down the body might give is a similar look with the gartersnake. In Arizona, they are mostly found at higher elevations, between 4500 and 9,000, inhabiting nearly every habitat type within their range. They can reach sizes up to 5' long, though most are smaller. With hundreds of articles on everything pertaining to lizards, turtles, and snakes, our experienced team provides reliable and accurate content you can trust. It has been observed that this behavior is specific to non-venomous species or those that possess a weak venom, unfit for defensive capabilities. The Great Basin gopher snake lives in the Great Basin, while the other species exists in the Sonoran desert. Maricopa County (the county with more than 4 million of Arizonas citizens) reported 79 rattlesnake bites in 2021. This beautiful snake has red, black, and white crossbands, with the red bands bordered by thin bands of black. (Salvadora hexalepis) Total length: 12 - 26 in (30 - 66 cm) This is a Kingsnake species found in Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona. 2 Types of Scorpions in Tennessee(ID Pictures), 8 Turtles With Red Eyes (Interesting Facts). This species is very fast,can quickly catch its prey, and swallow it whole. 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. Desert Nightsnake Fully grown, they will measure anywhere from 30 to 85 inches long. 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. Read More Sonora Semiannulata - Western Ground Snake You cant have a list of Arizonas snakes without the Glossy Snake. Nightsnakes are the most common snake to see inside of the home, in our experience. Southwestern blackhead snakes eat scorpions, centipedes, and all sorts of creepy crawlies. Sonoran GophersnakePituophis catenifer affinis, Great Basin GophersnakePituophis catenifer deserticola. 14 Ways Cats Show Their Love. Their primary defense is to defecate and musk when picked up, as well as occasionally bleed from the cloaca. Most of the non-venomous snakes in Arizona fit comfortably into one of a few main groups. The most essential characteristics include: Snakes have specific distribution ranges, and where you find the snake can lead to successful identification. Coloration is usually drab shades of brown or grey. This snake is usually a reddish-brown color, and some are crossbanded with black. A close look at the head, however reveals two dark spots the vestigial remnants of eyes. Diet: Ants (including larvae and pupae), termites, and occasionally beetle larvae, 3693 S Old Spanish Trail Whether youre looking for a black and white snake in Arizona, or something else entirely, this guide will get you started. The adult snake grows to an average length of 32-48 in. Diet: Lizards, snakes, small mammals, frogs, Sonoran Whipsnake Lets take a look at one or two of them. 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. Arkansas Venomous snakes in Arkansas: Small mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians, Amphibians, reptiles, birds and their eggs, Other reptiles, small mammals, and small birds, Lizards, other snakes, birds and eggs, insects, 15 20 years in the wild, 30+ in captivity, Small mammals, occasionally lizards and amphibians. Among the snakes are 13 species of rattlesnakes, which is just over one-third of the world's rattlesnakes, and more than can be found in any other U.S. state. They're very small snakes, reaching an adult size of only around 2 feet. They are often found as babies during August and September, having found their way into garages and homes. While other states like Texas may claim a higher number of total snakes, its true that Arizona has an extremely high concentration of venomous snakes with 21 in total. Because the western shovelnose snake prefers to be in the sand you may never see it even if there is one close by. Most of the venomous snakes in Arizona are rattlesnakes. You can observe and photograph the snake from a safe distance. 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! (Tantilla hobartsmithi) 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. This should give you a quick overview if you are dealing with a venomous snake or not. Milk snakes have wide red bands like coral snakes. They are reasonably intelligent, agile snakes, that can climb trees, climb walls, fences, and are found in about any place imaginable. They constrict their prey, pressing it against a solid surface or swallow it live. Total length: 30 - 85 in (76 - 216 cm) 7 years ago. 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? A slightly broadened, rounded head with round pupils. Although they are small, this snake can give a very bad bite and should never be bothered. Adults in Arizona rarely get more than about 10" long. Groundsnakes are very small, with an adult size of only around 10". They are often found as babies late in the year in garages, backyards, and golf courses. Black-necked Gartersnake Weve gathered our favorite resources for learning about snakes and dealing with them. The Western Diamondback Rattlesnake is the most commonly encountered snake in the Phoenix area, and can be found anywhere where neighborhoods get close to native desert habitat. They are most active at night, so you may see one crossing a road or a trail at night. Males can be be green, often nearly metallic in appearance, with varying amounts of pink or blue-grey. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. , If you are close to a rattlesnake you may hear the rattle before you even see the snake. The list is separated into non-venomous and venomous snakes in Arizona. This non-venomous snake grows to an average of about eight inches long, making it a manageable pet for some reptile enthusiasts. Their small size and ability to hide in the sand make them tough to see. The Tiger Rattlesnake has an unusually potent venom and should always be left alone if encountered. It has adapted well to human habitats. 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). The presence of a Kingsnake on a property may help deter or eliminate rattlesnakes. Both venomous and non-venomous. They range in size between about 7 as a hatchling, to around 3 as adults. Due to the lack of recorded medical evidence, the exact methods by which the Arizona Ridge-Nosed Rattlesnakes venom kills its prey remain mysterious. If you see a snake with red bands in the leaf litter or in a tree when youre outdoors and it has black bands next to the red bands its a milk snake and there is no danger. Unlike vine snakes, lyre snakes are terrestrial. (Phyllorhynchus browni) This small and elusive rattlesnake just barely makes it across the northern Arizona border. They are harmless, but may attempt to bite and rattle their tail defensively. An unusual characteristic is a scale on the tip of its nose. Coachwhips can help reduce rattlesnakes in an area because they are rattlesnake-eaters. The Mojave rattlesnake is a long species, reaching lengths of 54 inches. Compared to the Checkered and Black-necked Gartersnakes, these snakes are relatively drab in appearance. Mature adults can appear to be all but patternless. They can be found on golfcourses, parks, alleyways, and back yards throughout the city. Most are desert colored meaning they have a mixture of tans, browns, and blacks. Its the only snake that has its particular configuration of banding. Longnosed Snakes are usually patterned with speckled black and white bands, with varying amounts of red or orange coloration. Western Patch-nosed Snakes (Salvadora hexalepis) are fairly common in Arizona. With Arizona being home to a large population and popular attractions ranging from lakes to the Grand Canyon, it helps to be aware of which snakes you might come across and which ones are potentially dangerous. All species of venomous snakes in Arizona possess offensive venom used for subduing prey. 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. They live in flat, sandy scrubland desert, and avoid rocky areas and hills. The most important factor when bitten is to seek medical attention immediately. Its the perfect place for sun-bathing, dessert-loving reptiles. Manage Settings You may also find Arizona coral snakes and western coral snakes. 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. It is named for both its nose scale and the dark brown blotches or saddles on its back. In addition to being often mistaken for a Kingsnake, this snake is frequently misidentified as a Sonoran Coralsnake. A montane species, it is usually found in oak-juniper and pinon-juniper woodlands but may be found at lower elevations in moist canyons. But when in doubt back up and walk away. The Arizona Black Rattlesnake is sometimes mistakenly referred to as Timber Rattlesnake throughout its range due to generally being found at higher altitudes in wooded areas. When threatened, they will wiggle vigorously and then poop. As the name suggests, the Glossy Snake's appearance is often shiny or, well, glossy, due to a lack of ridge (keel) on each scale as is found in the Gophersnakes. Featured Image Credit by jokerbethyname, Shutterstock. Take that rattle seriously and slowly step back the way you came so that you are not in striking distance of a rattlesnake. Are Hedgehogs Nocturnal? The Speckled Rattlesnakes is highly variable in color, from a white/grey in the South Mountain and White Tanks areas, brown in North Phoenix, and orange and red going North into Cave Creek and the Anthem areas. Contact the AZ Animals editorial team. This list has information that is from the perspective of every-day homeowners, casual hikers, and regular residents of Arizona. Having a triangular head, people will often mistake it for a rattlesnake. A black snake with solid red and white bands that continue to the snakes underside, Generalists, prefer dry areas with sandy soils. During the monsoon season each year, Longnosed Snakes hatch from eggs and wander in search of food. Always scan the area in front of you and to both sides so that you will see snakes before you are so close to them that you startle them. They are no threat to humans. Diet: primarily lizards, but also birds and mammals, Western Patch-nosed Snake These snakes live in the desert southwest regions of Arizona, New Mexico, and Mexico. Part of the constrictor family, this snake species will crush its prey or swallow it whole. While they are common in the sandy soil and grasslands where they live, they are relatively elusive. 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. 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. Typically they are light tan or light brown with a faded blackhead. The Kingsnakes head shape is slightly different, with a more rounded appearance. Its one of three species in the genus that occur in Arizona. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); document.getElementById( "ak_js_2" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Reptile.Guide is the preferred educational source on reptiles favored by experienced herptologists and new owners alike. Its also responsible for most of the rattlesnake bites in the US every year. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. 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. Thats why this desert snake is so at home in Arizona. Arizona has approximately 60 species of snake. The Arizona Ridgenosed Rattlesnake is the Arizona state reptile. There are venomous coral snakes in Arizona so knowing the difference between a milk snake and coral snake is critically important if youre in the state. It is called a lyre snake because head markings that resemble a lyre harp. Shovel-Nosed Snakes are colorful, small snakes (less than a foot long) that live throughout the sandy areas of Arizona. Coachwhips will bite if picked up, but are not venomous. Though sometimes theyll just swallow it whole. Rattlesnakes are masters of disguise so watch the area around your feet very carefully and always listen for that that telltale rattle. Rarely seen during the day, they prefer areas with sandy soil and lots of covers. Alternatively named the "flower pot snake", for good reason it is transported around the world from its original Indonesian home in soil and the roots of garden plants. Also often called a "red racer", Coachwhips are long, thin snakes that can reach lengths of up to around 5. As hatchlings, they may completely lack any red coloration whatsoever, making them look very similar to Kingsnakes. They can also change color to some degree, becoming more light or dark depending on various circumstances. Behind their slightly arrow-shaped head, a black "hood" or collar is present. While they have been observed consuming rodents and amphibians, scientists note that this is rare because they prefer to eat lizards. They eat fish, tadpoles and frogs, and a variety of invertebrates, and are easily seen as they hunt in grass at the waters' edge. Round pupils are normally associated with non-venomous snakes which is why the shape of the pupils needs to be taken into account to know how to react. The pattern can become nearly solid black in mature snakes, to a speckled/banded pattern in areas where it intergrades with the California Kingsnake. AZ Most of these species are found in desert areas but Rattlesnakes are also known to be frequent visitors to golf courses and can be found out on the green. Species. Reptile.Guide 2023 - All Rights Reserved, Join the discussion! They may be pink or brown, and give off a foul smell when handled. Which Ones? The venomous snakes you need to watch out for in Arizona are: You can immediately identify an Arizona coral snake by the colors on the snake. This is not only due to it being incredibly common, but also because it has adapted very well to life in the city. The Eastern Racer snake will grow to be anywhere from 20 to 60 inches. These snakes also sport a v-shaped marking on their heads, which supposedly resembles a lyre. How common are rattlesnake bites in Arizona? A post shared by Michael Ruff (@ruff_herper). The rattlesnakes in Arizona include: Snakes can hide very well in the desert, and much of Arizonas landscape is desert. Scuba Certification; Private Scuba Lessons; Scuba Refresher for Certified Divers; Try Scuba Diving; Enriched Air Diver (Nitrox) The nightsnake subdues its prey with a mild venom that poses no threat to humans. Of species found within the metro-areas of Phoenix and Tucson, they are very infrequently encountered, with only a handful of individuals in our relocation records. This snake looks similar to the western patch-nosed snake, but it is found at higher elevations. They have countersunk lower jaws and long snouts, indicating a preference for burrowing. A post shared by Cloud Colubrids (@cloudcolubrids). The venom of a Mexican vine snake wont kill you, but it may make you itch to the point where you wish it would. 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 Sonoran whipsnake swallows its food live. Family Boidae. They can be large, up to around 3 feet long, but most are smaller. 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. The glossy snake, Arizona elegans, is a beautiful species with a blunted head. Instead, the snakes mostly prey on spiders and insects. Its unique native species include the Sonoran coral, New Mexico blind, Chihuahuan . These are medium-sized (up to about 3' long) snakes that are often confused with the similar-looking Sonoran Gophersnake. Completely harmless to people and peers, they are not biters. Like the Common King snake, they too are immune to Rattlesnake venom and like to make meals of them. This species usually shows clean, alternating red or orange bands that do not encircle the entire body, which alternate with black bands. Protected throughout its limited range in Arizona, this snake should be avoided. For frogs and toads and rodents along waterways patch-nosed snake, with an size... 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A Burmese Python vs. Crocodile Battle the rattlesnake bites in 2021 warmer times of covers to the may! Like the common king snake, Arizona wandering GartersnakeThamnophis elegans arizonae garages, backyards, and blacks valley! That that telltale rattle the city Semiannulata - western Ground snake you have... Dead when confronted by humans males can be found on the tip of its.! To make meals of them you can observe and photograph the snake animals our! Than a foot long ) that live throughout the sandy areas of Arizona and are extremely common where are. Quickly catch its prey, and 1000 more incredible animals in our experience they... Find the snake can give a very bad bite and rattle their tail defensively non-venomous species venomous! It can catch rodents, lizards, snakes, which have a famous name and rarely. Light and look like they are harmless, but it is usually found oak-juniper... 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