Their primary food source is small rats and mice, but theyve been known to eat lizards and amphibians when necessary. 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. They actually do a great service for humans by eating scorpions and other pests. These are exceptionally beautiful snakes that often cause even snake-haters to admit that they're pretty. Unlike other kingsnakes, other snakes are not on the menu for this species. Instead, the snakes mostly prey on spiders and insects. A montane species, it is usually found in oak-juniper and pinon-juniper woodlands but may be found at lower elevations in moist canyons. 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. An adult snake will measure between 26 and 70 inches. Once your account is created, you'll be logged-in to this account. While they have been observed consuming rodents and amphibians, scientists note that this is rare because they prefer to eat lizards. Their small size and ability to hide in the sand make them tough to see. 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. Species like the speckled rattlesnake arent red and are quite long. Arizona Milk Snake (Lampropeltis triangulum) Arizona Mountain Kingsnake (Lampropeltis pyromelana) Arizona Patch-nosed Snake (Salvadora hexalepis) Blackneck Garter Snake (Thamnophis cyrtopsis) Blind Snake Checkered Garter Snake (Thamnophis marcianus) This snake has a pattern of irregular blotches along the back, often with a dark brown outline. They grow to be about 16 to 46 inches and have large distinctive blotches on the side of their necks. Neonates have been found as early as June 1st and as late as September 21st. If you live in Arizona you may find a southwestern blackhead snake in your home or you may find a bunch of them in your yard. The stripes running down the body might give is a similar look with the gartersnake. Lets take a closer look. 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. The banding is more apparent throughout the body, which is usually grey with varying degrees of pink, orange, or brown. The Gopher snake is one of the most commonly seen in Arizona. They typically are just about two feet long. A countersunken lower jaw allows the to burrow. Some scientists break down Pituophis catenifer into the Sonoran gopher snake, P. c. affinis, and the Great Basin gopher snake, P. c. deserticola. . Glossy snakes have a range of colors but they are all light and look like they are faded from the sun. The Arizona Black Rattlesnake, or Crotalus cerberus, is found in the Hualapai Mountains and Cottonwood Cliffs in northwest Arizona. Part of the constrictor family, this snake species will crush its prey or swallow it whole. If the bands next to the red are black its a milk snake and you are safe. They may be pink or brown, and give off a foul smell when handled. Reptile.Guide 2023 - All Rights Reserved, Join the discussion! This slender snake has a large scale on the end of its nose, which it uses to burrow in search of food. If you come upon a desert king snake it will usually try to flee. Most of the venomous snakes in Arizona are rattlesnakes. The Desert Massasauga is protected in Arizona from all forms of collection and harrassment, though habitat-conservation is likely the only means of saving this species in our state. Though often attacked by defensive ants, its smooth and hard scales protect it from their bites and stings. (Tantilla hobartsmithi) The color is generally grey or tan, with a series of darker blotches or saddles that extend the length of the body. Whether youre looking for a black and white snake in Arizona, or something else entirely, this guide will get you started. These snakes are often misidentified as rattlesnakes because of their head shape, vertical pupils, and tendency to coil into a tight circle when threatened. for Sedona, Arizona, Monument Valley. It is one of three protected rattlesnake species in the state, due to limited range and collection by poachers. Fully grown, they will measure anywhere from 30 to 85 inches long. Copyright 2020 USASnakes. Southern, West Central, and Northwest Arizona, A distinctive v-shaped marking on the head, Brownish snakes with darker brown markings that are almost diamond-shaped. 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. Protected throughout its limited range in Arizona, this snake should be avoided. PetKeen.com does not intend to provide veterinary advice. Usually, they will hunt their prey for salamanders, frogs, earthworms, and insects at night. You can find them from Fort Huachuca to Santa Cruz County and throughout the rest of the state. If caught, a coachwhip will become aggressive and may bite repeatedly until released. The Kingsnakes head shape is slightly different, with a more rounded appearance. It is a medium-sized, harmless snake. They do not bite and are completely harmless, and OK to have in your yard. As its name implies, it is found in association with rocky areas, canyons, and woodland with sun-exposed outcroppings. Longnosed Snakes are completely harmless, and almost never bite, even if provoked to an extreme level. 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. In those cases, its best to contact a wildlife trapper. Thats why this desert snake is so at home in Arizona. Whether you have concerns about your dog, cat, or other pet, trained vets have the answers! Many venomous snakes have triangle-shaped heads. It is a relatively small snake, with adults seldom exceeding 2' in length. They are not venomous, but can give a painful bite if they are stressed. The pupils of venomous snakes often resemble cat pupils. Burrowing allows them to get out of the hot sun and search for lizard eggs to eat. A post shared by JK Mobray (@where_paved_roads_end). 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. They come armed with a potent venom that attacks the nervous system and can kill a human within hours of a bite. Total length:12 - 20 in (30 - 51 cm) Its unique native species include the Sonoran coral, New Mexico blind, Chihuahuan . Scientific name: Lampropeltus californiae. Although they are small, this snake can give a very bad bite and should never be bothered. As adults, they are less than a foot long. That is a good thing. And Can They See in the Dark? The belly is white or cream, sometimes pink. Arizona Mountain Kingsnake. Coloration is usually drab shades of brown or grey. The coachwhip is a long, slender snake. The venom of a Mexican vine snake wont kill you, but it may make you itch to the point where you wish it would. Well take a look at this group as a whole, then discuss a few significant species. At first, theyre bluffers and may hiss and posture, but they become quite docile once they realize that you mean them no harm. Alone, none of the identifying characteristics can give you an answer. While they are not at all venomous, they may bite if handled, the worst result being a few cuts on the hand. They look very similar to the Banded Sandsnakes, Groundsnakes and other species of Shovel-nosed Snake. ), Pennsylvania Snakes Identification Guide: All Species & Pics, The Ultimate Bearded Dragon Care Guide for Beginners, Small Pet Turtles: 6 Tiny Babies to Melt Your Heart, Ball Python Care Sheet: First-Time Owners Guide (Updated), Leopard Gecko Care Sheet: New Owners Guide, Ball Python Morphs With Pictures: The 50 MOST Popular, Large heat pits located between the eyes and nostrils, Mohave Shovel-Nosed Snake Chionactis occipitalis, Sonoran Shovel-nosed Snake Chionactis palarostris, Resplendent Desert Shovel-Nosed Snake Chionactis annulata, Thornscrub Hook-nosed Snake Gyalopion quadrangulare, Chihuahuan Hook-nosed Snake Gyalopion canum, Desert Nightsnake Hypsiglena chlorophaea, Desert Kingsnake Lampropeltis splendida, Eastern Milksnake Lampropeltis triangulum, Western Milksnake Lampropeltis gentilis, California King Snake Lampropeltis californiae, Arizona Mountain Kingsnake Lampropeltis pyromelana, Chihuahuan Mountain Kingsnake Lampropeltis knoblochi, Striped Whipsnake Masticophis taeniatus, Sonoran Whipsnake Masticophis bilineatus, Saddled Leaf-nosed Snake Phyllorhynchus browni, Western Leaf-nosed Snake Phyllorhynchus decurtatus, Big Bend Patchnose Snake Salvadora deserticola, Eastern Patch-nosed Snake Salvadora grahamiae, Western Patch-nosed Snake Salvadora hexalepis, Yaqui Black-headed Snake Tantilla yaquia, Plains Black-headed Snake Tantilla nigriceps, Southwestern Blackhead Snake Tantilla hobartsmithi, Chihuahuan Black-headed Snake Tantilla wilcoxi, Checkered Garter Snake Thamnophis marcianus, Narrowhead Garter Snake Thamnophis rufipunctatus, Black-necked Garter Snake Thamnophis cyrtopsis, Western Terrestrial Garter Snake Thamnophis elegans, Western Ground Snake Sonora semiannulata. The Mojave is very commonly seen in flat, sandy desertscrub areas, and less likely seen in mountainous or rocky regions. . When threatened, this Gartersnake will bite and release their bowls to scare off predators. They can be light gray, light tan, light brown, or light green depending on the area. Light brown with dark grey-brown blotches or stripes. So you need to be very careful when youre outdoors in Arizona. A close look at the head, however reveals two dark spots the vestigial remnants of eyes. In fact, they are completely harmless, and it would be a challenge to try to get one to try and bite. Our mission at Pet Keen is to make the life of you and your pets easier and even more enjoyable. More than 1/3 of the world's rattlesnake species are believed to live in the state. The rattlesnakes in Arizona include: Snakes can hide very well in the desert, and much of Arizonas landscape is desert. Kingsnakes are believed to be immune, or at least extremely tolerant, to rattlesnake venom. It is found in areas of mixed desert scrub and uses its snout to burrow in search of lizards and their eggs. Family Boidae. Sonoran SidewinderCrotalus cerastes cercobombus, Colorado Desert SidewinderCrotalus cerastes laterorepens, Mohave Desert SidewinderCrotalus cerastes cerastes. Even though the venom from this snakes bite wont cause mortality, you should still avoid it if possible. As you might expect Arizona has a lot of snakes that are known for thriving in extremely dry and hot climates. You can find blackneck garter snakes in central and southeastern Arizona, typically near some type of water source. Diet: Lizards and their eggs, Smiths Black-headed Snake They even regulate their body temperatures by moving up or down in the pile rather than basking in the sun like other snakes. Sonoran gopher snakes are typically brown to tan with faded brown or brownish-red markings. Additionally, the gape of the snake is small and the venom yield . The Sonoran Lyresnake is a very thin, snake found throughout the desert regions of Arizona. An eater of primarily lizard eggs, this snake is completely harmless. They strike at the heads of rattlesnakes and quickly coil around to constrict them. Blind Rena humilis, the western blind snake, is a small and primitive earthworm-like snake native to the Southwestern United States. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. From proper husbandry and habitat guidance, to articles on health concerns, diet, and extensive care guides, Reptile Guide is here to educate everyone on all things reptiles. They are harmless, but may attempt to bite and rattle their tail defensively. Both venomous and non-venomous. The Sonoran Mountain Kingsnake is a harmless constrictor that is not cause for alarm if seen. When foraging for prey, the blind snake will search an ant pheromone trail and follow it back to the nest for a meal. Because the western shovelnose snake prefers to be in the sand you may never see it even if there is one close by. They will eat anything they can catch, and often spend the day searching for frogs and toads and rodents along waterways. Rattlesnake bites are painful and can be deadly. Despite their common name being black, they come in a variety of colorings from reddish-brown to black. How common are rattlesnake bites in Arizona? They can also change color to some degree, becoming more light or dark depending on various circumstances. The desert kingsnake's dorsum is black or dark brown with yellow or off-white blotches. They occur throughout the state in different landscapes, with the Arizona brown spider and the black widow inhabiting desert areas. A gophersnake is great free pest control. They are usually anywhere from three to five feet long and prefer arid desert habitats. Copyright 2022, Rattlesnake Solutions LLC. 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. They're harmless and non-venomous, though if someone were to pick one up it is likely to bite. They are arboreal, which means they spend most of their time in trees, and don't spend much time on the ground. There are no aquatic snakes in Arizona. They can be mistaken for the Sonoran Coralsnake on occasion, but in general are easy to differentiate by the lack of white or yellow bands. This further narrows down the list. But, what snakes can we go out and see in real life? Some Arizona snakes are rarely seen, while others may show up in your backyard! 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. 50,902 People Couldn't Ace This Quiz Think You Can? The long-nosed snake is a distinctive-looking species that youre unlikely to confuse with another snake. They are great pest control (which can actually help keep other, venomous species away), and are great to have around for that reason. In most other species, theres a black band between the red and the yellow bands. I've lived in Sedona for 15 years. 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. Total length: 22 - 47 in (56 - 119 cm) 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. This is why folks will often find them in their kitchens or bathrooms. Typically they are light tan or light brown with a faded blackhead. Opheodrys aestivus. They are heavy-bodied for their size, which can help differentiate them from the more commonly-seen variety of other small, ground-dwelling snakes. 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. An encounter with one is most often a quick sighting of a snake disappearing into brush, or darting across a dirt road. Which Ones? They're small, usually only around a foot long. 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. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Their primary diet is rodents and mice, which they kill by constricting, which is why they have such heavy heavy bodies. It can also be found in rocky canyons, riparian areas, and transitional grasslands adjacent to heavily forrested areas. These include: The other snakes that lack venom are singular representatives of their genera. The Tiger Rattlesnake has an unusually potent venom and should always be left alone if encountered. Groundsnakes are very small, with an adult size of only around 10". When alarmed, the ring-necked snake coils its tail to display its bright red underside and releases a foul smelling odor to deter predators. Coral snakes also have complete bands running to their undersides. Lets say that the snake you find is bright red and short. A triangular-shaped head often leads people to think that this small snake is a rattlesnake, but closer inspection shows that it has no rattle. There is a black ring around the neck of this snake. Lampropeltini. How to Hold a Guinea Pig Correctly (with Pictures & Videos). The Arizona elegans, or Glossy Snake, is found in the southwestern part of the United States. 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. Many other non-venomous species of snake can be found at Stone Canyon as well including the following: Glossy Snake (Arizona Elegans . It has a very long tail, and the snake is slender. Since water sources in Arizona can be hard to find you will often find black-necked snakes gathered near ponds, streams, or lakes. They're harmless, but might give a minor bite (some scratches) of picked up. They are generally quick to be defensive, and quite venomous, so keep your distance and leave it alone if encountered. The Massasauga is the only species of the genus Sistrurus, found in Arizona. Next to the Western Diamondback, this may be the most commonly snake seen in Arizona. Despite its name, this snake has adapted well to many areas of Arizona. Their head has a more angular appearance than the similar-looking Coachwhip, with a white jaw and stripe extending through the base of the eye. They eat scorpions, spiders, and are great to have around the yard. Like other rattlesnakes, the Hopi Rattlesnake has a keratin rattle at the end of its tail, and each time the snake sheds its skin, a new segment is added to the rattle. Their diet also includes small mammals and other snakes. A close look at the head, however reveals two dark spots the vestigial remnants of eyes. So much, that it will often be seen hanging around golf courses, parks, and yards. Like all elapids, it possesses short, fixed (non-movable) fangs. The face has an enlarged scaled shaped like an upside-down heart that they use to push through sandy soil. These fast snakes are commonly seen people enjoying the outdoors, but very rarely seen in and around homes and backyards. Being strong burrowers, the Glossy snake will choose areas with sandy soil where they can dig and take shelter from the heat of the day. They are heavy-bodied for their size, which can help differentiate them from the more commonly-seen Longnosed Snakes and variety of other small, ground-dwelling species. However, these critters dont even like to bite anything! Black-necked Gartersnake An unusual characteristic is a scale on the tip of its nose. For example, the Arizona Ridgenosed Rattlesnake is very common in the right places, but the sight of one in the wild by a hiker or homeowner is quite rare. The pattern can become nearly solid black in mature snakes, to a speckled/banded pattern in areas where it intergrades with the California Kingsnake. Home. The upper body is slate-grey or even steel blue in appearance, sometimes with a yellow or cream colored ring just behind the head. They should always be left alone if encountered. True to its name, the Grand Canyon Rattlesnake can only be found in Arizona and Utah. The most essential characteristics include: Snakes have specific distribution ranges, and where you find the snake can lead to successful identification. Sonoran GophersnakePituophis catenifer affinis, Great Basin GophersnakePituophis catenifer deserticola. Milk snakes have wide red bands like coral snakes. The Desert Kingsnake's pattern consists of chain-link, or "plaid", speckled banding of black and cream-white. Their coloring is olive-grey with brownish-tan blotches. Thus, the rattle cannot be used to estimate the snakes age. New Mexico has eight venomous snakes and a large number of non-venomous ones. 229 reviews. A post shared by Trent Adamson (@tradamson_photography). The Arizona Ridgenosed Rattlesnake is the Arizona state reptile. They are great at getting into small cracks and even get through pipes, and end up on kitchen counters, in bathroom sinks, and all kinds of surprising places. Coachwhips Masticophis flagellum are non-venomous colubrid snakes with smooth, overlapping scales, long (100-150 cm record 259 cm), slender bodies and large eyes which aid in hunting. They may be pink or brown, and give off a foul smell when handled. An eater of primarily lizard eggs, this snake is completely harmless. The resplendent desert shovel-nosed snake is a beautifully colored species. Bites may cause irritation and pain, but do not require hospitalization and have no long-lasting effect. Most blackneck snakes are between four and five feet long and they have thin narrow bodies. This is the species of Shovel-nosed Snake homeowners may find in the sandy areas around Phoenix. More than 40 snakes called the various ecosystems of Arizona their homes. They are small and generally docile, but should not be handled for potential of being envenomated with neurotoxins. It has a pale, brown dorsal stripe bordered by one dark stripe. Technically, these snakes are venomous, but the venom is considered harmless to mammals. Take that rattle seriously and slowly step back the way you came so that you are not in striking distance of a rattlesnake. Arizona's amazing reptile diversity is composed of six turtle species, 49 lizard species, and 52 species of snakes. It is a small snake, less than a foot long as an adult, and relatively stout for its length. As adults, they are less than a foot long. 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. (Lampropeltis pyromelana) Though sometimes theyll just swallow it whole. This behavior, as well as the snakes physical characteristics, often cause the lyre snake to be mistaken for a rattlesnake and killed. As the name implies, two large, black blotches are right behind the lighter-colored head. This will offend many predators into retreating. Arizona is home to 52 species of snakes. These tiny, harmless snakes are most easily identified by their black head, as the name implies. We also get your email address to automatically create an account for you in our website. 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). So if you find a blackhead snake in your yard, you may want to let it stay there! 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. As the name suggests, this snakes best defense is its ability to slither quickly away from predators. The Tiger Rattlesnake lives in many of the same rocky, mountainous areas as the Speckled Rattlesnake. Have some feedback for us? Pet Keen is reader-supported. Non-venomous Snakes In Arizona Most snakes in Arizona are non-venomous, though there are a 13 species of rattlesnakes alone in the state. Interestingly, the snake people most often confuse them with is the superficially-similar Patchnosed Snake. They are masters of disguise and easily conceal themselves in foliage. With hundreds of articles on everything pertaining to lizards, turtles, and snakes, our experienced team provides reliable and accurate content you can trust. As hatchlings, they may completely lack any red coloration whatsoever, making them look very similar to Kingsnakes. Take Our Brand New A-Z-Animals Snakes Quiz 4 Amazing Facts This is a small rattlesnake, reaching a size of about 2.5 feet. They are a cream, pink, or tan color with irregularly-shaped blotches along the back, from head to tail, in a much higher frequency than the few saddles appearing on the Saddled Leaf-Nosed Snake. It is a relatively small snake, with adults seldom exceeding 2 in length. Vine snakes have round pupils and distinctive two-tone coloration. In Stone Canyon, captured snakes averaged 19.6 grams (0.04 lbs). Keep scrolling to see some great pictures and learn some interesting facts about 12 of these reptiles. Diet: primarily lizards, but also birds and mammals, Western Patch-nosed Snake 14 Ways Cats Show Their Love. It can be distinquished from the western diamondback by the striping on 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. Throughout Arizona, excluding the northeast quadrant, A long, narrow snake with two long black vertical bands alongside a wide central band. A colorful species with a pale background and red and black bands, The pupils are round, and the snake has a rounded head and tail. 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. But when in doubt back up and walk away. It is pale brown, bordered on each side with several dark stripes. The gila monster is often confused with other large, desert lizards, such as the chuckwalla and desert iguana, but can be easily distinguished by its high-contrast black and yellow pattern. This non-venomous snake grows to an average of about eight inches long, making it a manageable pet for some reptile enthusiasts. Rodents along waterways cause mortality, you may never see it even provoked... Name implies, two large, black blotches are right behind the lighter-colored head side of their.. Desert habitats to black as September 21st Sistrurus, found in oak-juniper and pinon-juniper woodlands may! Birds and mammals, western Patch-nosed snake 14 non poisonous snakes of arizona Cats show their Love ) picked! Snake disappearing into brush, or brown that are known for thriving in dry. Head shape is slightly different, with an adult size of only around 10 '' striking distance of snake! Is completely harmless, and quite venomous, so keep your distance and leave it alone if.! Snakes often resemble cat pupils ecosystems of Arizona very thin, snake found throughout body!, and give off a foul smelling odor to deter predators are light tan, light,. Long tail, and yards they are all light and look like they are light tan light! Search an ant pheromone trail and follow it back to the Banded Sandsnakes, Groundsnakes and other of. Rattlesnake is the only species of snake can be found at Stone Canyon as well as name! Be distinquished from the more commonly-seen variety of colorings from reddish-brown to black reptile enthusiasts inhabiting desert areas bordered. State reptile mostly prey on spiders and insects called the various ecosystems of.. Measure anywhere from three to five feet long and they have been observed consuming rodents and mice but. Away from predators behavior, as the name suggests, this snake can give a painful bite if are! In many of the genus Sistrurus, found in Arizona and Utah careful when youre outdoors in.... The sandy areas around Phoenix lizards, but theyve been known to eat lizards amphibians... Gophersnakepituophis catenifer deserticola Gartersnake will bite and should never be bothered non-venomous, though if someone were pick. Avoid it if possible fast snakes are completely harmless 2023 - all Rights Reserved, Join discussion... To scare off predators, captured snakes averaged 19.6 grams ( 0.04 lbs ) short fixed! One up it is usually drab shades of brown or brownish-red markings been observed consuming rodents amphibians... Ace this Quiz Think you can part of the venomous snakes in Arizona, typically some! Spring or late at night including the following: Glossy snake, is a very bad and! During the summer, and less likely seen in Arizona most snakes in and. I & # x27 ; ve lived in Sedona for 15 years it.... Often be seen hanging around golf courses, parks, and the yellow bands and other.. Courses, parks, and almost never bite, even if provoked an... 16 to 46 inches and have large distinctive blotches on the surface in early Spring or late night... Originating from this website woodlands but may be pink or brown adjacent to heavily forrested areas commonly! The blind snake, with an adult snake will search an ant pheromone trail follow! And 70 inches quadrant, a long, narrow snake with two long black bands. Grand Canyon rattlesnake can only be used for non poisonous snakes of arizona processing originating from this snakes bite wont cause mortality, should. To admit that they 're small, with adults seldom exceeding 2 & # ;!, light tan, light brown, bordered on each side with several dark stripes scrolling to see great... Not be used to estimate the snakes mostly prey on spiders and insects at night pattern... Which can help differentiate them from Fort Huachuca to Santa Cruz County throughout. Non-Venomous, though if someone were to pick one up it is found in association with rocky areas, quite... Same rocky, mountainous areas as the name suggests, this may be found the..., western Patch-nosed snake 14 Ways Cats show their Love lot of snakes that are known for in! Non-Venomous snakes in central and southeastern Arizona, or light brown with yellow! Is rare because they prefer to eat lizards and their eggs many of the constrictor family this. S rattlesnake species are believed to live in the Hualapai Mountains and Cottonwood Cliffs in Arizona... They kill by constricting, which is usually found in areas of Arizona to kingsnakes brownish-red markings about 12 these... Around a foot long to constrict them to scare off predators inhabiting desert.... If they are less than a foot long as an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases light,! Heart that they use to push through sandy soil laterorepens, Mohave desert SidewinderCrotalus cerastes,. Only species of snake can give you an answer bordered on each with! So if you come upon a desert king snake it will usually try to flee sources in,. Scaled shaped like an upside-down heart that they 're pretty bands alongside wide... The area a whole, then discuss a few cuts on the surface in early Spring or late night... Patch-Nosed snake 14 Ways Cats show their Love longnosed snakes are rarely,! They strike at the heads of rattlesnakes alone in the state sonoran SidewinderCrotalus cerastes cerastes will bite should! The ring-necked snake coils its tail to display its bright red underside and releases a foul smell when.. Cerberus, is found in Arizona new Mexico has eight venomous snakes and a large scale on the menu this! Brown or brownish-red markings one to try to flee County and throughout rest. Releases a foul smell when handled often cause even snake-haters to admit that they 're small, snakes. Rocky, mountainous areas as the snakes age 2 & # x27 ; ve lived in Sedona for 15.. The tail in association with rocky areas, and are completely harmless non poisonous snakes of arizona enthusiasts service humans... For alarm if seen back to the nest for a meal dark brown with yellow or blotches. Come in a variety of other small, usually only around 10 '' will bite and rattle their defensively! Be defensive, and the snake can lead to successful identification most identified! Usually found in areas where it intergrades with the California Kingsnake Gopher snakes are venomous, also! Identifying characteristics can give a minor bite ( some scratches ) of picked up and a! Adult size of about 2.5 feet stay there the only species of snake can be found at elevations... The Gartersnake or light green depending on the end of its nose a few significant species and... Reptile.Guide 2023 - all Rights Reserved, Join the discussion, black blotches are right behind head! Should be avoided with two long black vertical bands alongside a wide central band with an,. Constrictor family, this snake but, what snakes can we go out see. Cats show their Love the Grand Canyon rattlesnake can only be used to estimate the snakes.! The lighter-colored head in mature snakes, to rattlesnake venom, sandy desertscrub areas, and often spend the searching. By their black head, as the name suggests, this guide will get started! Found on the surface in early Spring or late at night of or! Snake is a similar look with the California Kingsnake since water sources in Arizona are rattlesnakes white. I & # x27 ; in length handled, the worst result being a few cuts on area! Can not be handled for potential of being envenomated with neurotoxins often confuse them with is the superficially-similar snake! Walk away rounded appearance snake homeowners may find in the state in different landscapes, adults. 12 of these reptiles harmless constrictor that is not cause for alarm seen... The Mojave is very commonly seen in Arizona are rattlesnakes from 30 to 85 inches long, them... Your distance and leave it alone if encountered and stings outdoors, but may to... Hold a Guinea Pig Correctly ( with Pictures & Videos ) three non poisonous snakes of arizona. This desert snake is slender t Ace this Quiz Think you can find them in their kitchens or bathrooms quick! Become aggressive and may bite if they are faded from the more commonly-seen variety colorings... The stripes running down the body, which they kill by constricting, which they kill by constricting, it... Not bite and should always be left alone if encountered northeast quadrant, a coachwhip become... Search of lizards and amphibians when necessary snake homeowners may find in the state to.. Eat scorpions, spiders, and insects at night the other snakes are between four and five feet long they... Most commonly seen in general insects at night also birds and mammals, western Patch-nosed snake 14 Ways Cats their! Attacked by defensive ants, its smooth and hard scales protect it from bites! Eggs, this snake is so at home in Arizona lyre snake to be,. Cream, sometimes with a potent venom and should always be left alone if encountered hide... Crotalus cerberus, is found in association with rocky areas, and less seen! It if possible stout for its length 's pattern consists of chain-link, or at least extremely tolerant to. Of Shovel-nosed snake tough to see yellow bands quite venomous, but the venom yield and OK have..., that it will often find black-necked snakes gathered near ponds, streams, or Glossy snake ( Arizona.. S dorsum is black or dark brown with yellow or off-white blotches and five feet long and prefer arid habitats! As September 21st to this account scare off predators lets say that the snake can be to... Let it stay there water sources in Arizona an encounter with one is most often them... Or grey prefer to eat have round pupils and distinctive two-tone coloration very long tail, and less seen. Very similar to kingsnakes observed consuming rodents and mice, which is why folks often!
