South Dakota’s diverse natural landscapes are home to a variety of wildlife. For those exploring these environments, a common question concerns the presence of rattlesnakes. Understanding these reptiles is a practical step for anyone venturing into the state’s outdoor areas.
Rattlesnakes in the State
Rattlesnakes are native to South Dakota, integrating into the state’s various ecosystems. The primary species found here is the Prairie Rattlesnake, which is the only venomous snake in South Dakota. These snakes are most commonly encountered in the western half of the state, including the Black Hills and Badlands, and also extend eastward into areas along the Missouri River.
Identifying Species and Their Range
The Prairie Rattlesnake (Crotalus viridis) is the sole venomous snake species in South Dakota. These snakes are typically large and heavy-bodied, with adults usually ranging from 2 to 4 feet in length. Their coloration features a light gray, tan, or light brown background, marked with distinct dark brown blotches that are ringed in white. These blotches fade into bands closer to the tail, and two white lines are present on each side of their face.
Prairie Rattlesnakes possess a triangular-shaped head, elliptical pupils, and heat-sensing pits located between their eyes and nostrils. Their scales are keeled. The most definitive feature is the rattle at the end of their tail. These snakes thrive in specific habitats across South Dakota, including open grasslands, prairies, rocky outcrops, spruce forests, and areas with prairie dog towns. They can be encountered up to 10 to 20 miles east of the Missouri River.
Staying Safe Outdoors
To reduce the chance of an encounter, exercise caution in areas where rattlesnakes might be present. Wearing appropriate footwear, such as high-top boots, provides protection against potential bites. Remain aware of your surroundings, especially when walking through tall grass, dense brush, or rocky terrain, where snakes might be camouflaged.
Avoiding placing hands or feet into areas you cannot visually inspect, such as under logs, rocks, or in crevices, is a sensible precaution. When venturing out at night, using a flashlight can help illuminate your path and reveal any snakes that might be active after dark. Keeping pets on a leash in natural areas prevents them from disturbing or provoking a snake, which could lead to a bite.
Responding to an Encounter
Should you encounter a rattlesnake, maintain a safe distance. Rattlesnakes prefer to avoid confrontation and will try to move away if given space. Avoid provoking the snake, and slowly back away from the area.
In the event of a rattlesnake bite, seek immediate medical attention. Call 911 or your local emergency number. While waiting for help to arrive, remain as calm and still as possible. Keep the bitten limb immobilized and positioned at or below heart level to help slow the spread of venom. Remove any jewelry, watches, or tight clothing from the affected area before swelling begins.
Gently clean the bite wound with soap and water, then cover it loosely with a clean, dry dressing. Avoid actions such as applying a tourniquet, cutting the wound, attempting to suck out venom, applying ice, or consuming caffeine or alcohol, as these can worsen the situation. Hospitals in South Dakota are equipped with antivenom to treat rattlesnake bites.