Snakes reside in New York City, with several species calling the five boroughs home. Most are harmless and play a role in maintaining the local environment. Understanding their presence helps residents appreciate the city’s natural inhabitants.
Native and Introduced Species
New York City hosts several native non-venomous snake species. The Eastern Garter Snake is among the most commonly encountered, thriving in various habitats, including urban green spaces. These snakes typically display a dark body with three yellowish stripes and reach lengths of up to two feet. The Northern Brownsnake (Dekay’s Brownsnake) is another frequent resident, a small, secretive serpent often found in gardens and overgrown lots.
The Northern Ring-necked Snake, a slender species with a distinct yellow band around its neck, and the Northern Red-bellied Snake, characterized by its reddish underside, are also present. Eastern Milk Snakes, identified by their patterned bodies of reddish-brown blotches on a lighter background, and Northern Water Snakes, often found near aquatic environments, also inhabit parts of the city.
New York State is home to three venomous snake species: the Timber Rattlesnake, Eastern Massasauga, and Copperhead. The Timber Rattlesnake and Eastern Massasauga are primarily found in upstate New York. The Copperhead is the only venomous snake occasionally found within New York City limits, though sightings are rare. Copperheads possess a coppery-red head and distinctive hourglass-shaped bands along their bodies. Non-native snakes, such as pythons, are sometimes encountered; these are typically escaped pets, as owning such species is illegal.
Where to Find Them
Snakes in New York City primarily inhabit quieter, less disturbed natural areas. Large parks and green spaces offer suitable environments for these reptiles. Locations like Central Park, Van Cortlandt Park, Pelham Bay Park, and Staten Island’s Greenbelt provide refuge for various species. These areas offer cover, such as leaf litter, rocks, and dense vegetation, where snakes can hunt for prey and seek shelter.
Beyond large parks, snakes can also be found in suburban backyards, community gardens, and undeveloped lots. They seek places with abundant food sources like insects, slugs, earthworms, and small rodents. Proximity to water sources, such as ponds, streams, or wetlands, also attracts species like the Northern Water Snake. These natural pockets within the city provide essential habitats for the snake population.
Encountering a Snake
Encountering a snake in New York City usually occurs in natural settings like parks or green spaces. If you encounter one, observe it from a distance and avoid disturbing it. Snakes are not aggressive and typically bite only if threatened or provoked. Giving the snake space allows it to move away.
Identifying a venomous snake can be challenging, but encountering one in New York City is highly unlikely. Venomous snakes like copperheads may have a triangular head and vertical pupils, though close inspection is not recommended. If you find a snake in an unusual location, such as inside your home, contact a professional wildlife removal service. These specialists can safely remove and relocate the animal.