Rattlesnakes are present in Nebraska. Understanding their presence and behaviors helps residents and visitors navigate the state’s natural landscapes safely.
Rattlesnake Species in Nebraska
Nebraska is home to several rattlesnake species, with the Prairie Rattlesnake (Crotalus viridis) being the most widespread. This snake typically measures between 35 to 45 inches in length, though some individuals can grow longer. Its body coloration ranges from olive-green to gray or light brown, marked with distinct dark blotches along its back.
The Prairie Rattlesnake possesses a triangular-shaped head and a heat-sensing pit on each side of its head. A segmented rattle at the end of its tail produces a distinctive warning sound. While the Timber Rattlesnake and Western Massasauga are also found in Nebraska, the Prairie Rattlesnake is the species most commonly encountered.
Typical Habitats and Distribution
Prairie Rattlesnakes are predominantly found in the western half of Nebraska, extending across the Great Plains. Their preferred natural habitats include open prairies, grasslands, and areas with rocky outcrops, canyons, and mesas. These snakes also frequently utilize abandoned burrows of other animals, such as prairie dogs, for shelter and hunting.
Their active season generally spans from late March through mid-November. While they can be active during the day, particularly in milder weather, Prairie Rattlesnakes may shift their activity to dawn, dusk, or even nighttime during hot summer months to avoid overheating. During winter, they hibernate in communal dens, often returning to the same rock crevices, caves, or burrows each year.
The Timber Rattlesnake primarily inhabits the extreme southeastern corner of Nebraska, preferring woodlands, rocky areas, and stream corridors. The Western Massasauga is also found in the very southeastern part of the state, often in wet or marsh-like grasslands.
Safety Measures and Encounter Protocol
Preventing rattlesnake encounters requires caution in their preferred habitats. Staying on marked trails while hiking and wearing appropriate footwear, such as over-the-ankle boots and long pants, can reduce risk. Avoiding tall grass, dense underbrush, and refraining from placing hands or feet into unseen areas like rock crevices or under logs.
If a rattlesnake is encountered, maintaining a calm demeanor and significant distance is important. Slowly backing away from the snake and avoiding any sudden movements or attempts to provoke it are recommended. Although rattlesnakes often rattle as a warning, they do not always do so before striking.
In case of a rattlesnake bite, immediate medical attention is necessary. Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately. While waiting for emergency services, remain calm and remove any jewelry, watches, or tight clothing from the bitten limb before swelling begins. Gently wash the bite area with soap and water if available, and keep the bitten area below the level of the heart to help slow venom spread. Do not apply a tourniquet, cut the wound, attempt to suck out the venom, or apply ice to the bite, as these actions cause further harm and are ineffective.