Iowa is home to various snake species, some of which are venomous. Encounters are uncommon, as these animals generally prefer to avoid human interaction. Understanding how to identify venomous snakes and react safely can prevent incidents.
Identifying Iowa’s Venomous Snakes
Iowa hosts venomous snake species, including the Timber Rattlesnake and the Massasauga Rattlesnake. These snakes exhibit distinct features that aid in their identification. Recognizing these characteristics can help individuals discern between different snake types.
The Timber Rattlesnake, Crotalus horridus, is a larger snake, typically measuring 30 to 60 inches long. Their bodies are often yellowish-brown, gray, or black, marked with dark, chevron-shaped crossbands. A distinguishing feature is their solid black tail ending in a light-colored rattle. They have a broad, triangular head, vertical, cat-like pupils, and heat-sensing pits. Timber Rattlesnakes commonly inhabit wooded bluffs, rocky outcroppings, forests, and floodplains in eastern and southern Iowa.
The Massasauga Rattlesnake, Sistrurus catenatus, is smaller, typically 18 to 30 inches long. These snakes generally display gray or light brown coloration with prominent dark brown blotches, often with white outlines. Like other venomous snakes, Massasaugas possess a triangular head, elliptical pupils, and facial heat pits. Their tails also feature a rattle, though it is smaller and less conspicuous than that of the Timber Rattlesnake’s. Massasaugas prefer habitats such as wet prairies, marshes, and low areas near rivers and lakes.
Non-venomous snakes in Iowa generally lack the triangular head shape and vertical pupils found in their venomous counterparts. They typically have round pupils and do not possess heat-sensing pits. While some non-venomous snakes may vibrate their tails against dry leaves to create a rattling sound, true rattlesnakes hold their rattles off the ground to produce a distinct buzzing noise.
Encountering Snakes and Ensuring Safety
If you encounter a snake, give it ample space and back away slowly. Most snakebites occur when individuals attempt to handle, harass, or kill a snake. Snakes generally prefer to avoid confrontation and will retreat.
To reduce unexpected snake encounters, wear sturdy, over-the-ankle footwear and long pants when in wooded or tall-grass areas. Watch where you step and place your hands, especially when reaching into dense vegetation, under rocks, or around logs. Keeping your yard free of debris can also discourage snakes.
In the event of a snakebite, call 911 or emergency services without delay. While waiting for medical help, remain calm and keep the bitten limb as still as possible, ideally at or below the level of the heart. Remove any tight clothing or jewelry from the affected area before swelling begins. Clean the bite wound gently with soap and water and cover it loosely with a clean, dry dressing.
There are several actions to avoid after a snakebite, as they can worsen the situation:
Do not apply a tourniquet.
Do not cut the wound.
Do not attempt to suck out the venom.
Do not apply ice.
Do not consume alcohol or caffeine.
Do not try to capture or kill the snake for identification, as this could lead to another bite. Instead, try to remember its appearance to describe to medical professionals if safe.
The Iowa Poison Control Center can provide additional guidance at 1-800-222-1222.