Oklahoma is home to approximately 46 native snake species inhabiting various ecosystems across the state. The vast majority of these snakes are harmless and play beneficial roles in the environment. Only seven species are venomous, meaning over 84% of encountered snakes pose no venom risk. Understanding how to identify common non-venomous snakes and the distinguishing features of the venomous species is the most effective way to ensure safety.
The Majority: Harmless Snakes
The most frequently encountered snakes in Oklahoma are non-venomous and generally docile, often serving as natural pest control agents. The Rat Snake is a common sight in wooded areas, barns, and sheds. These excellent climbers actively hunt rodents, helping manage small mammal populations in rural and suburban settings.
The widespread Garter Snake is relatively small, found near water sources or in grassy habitats, and primarily feeds on earthworms, slugs, and amphibians. The Bullsnake is a large constrictor common in prairies and open woodlands that specializes in consuming gophers and other burrowing rodents.
The King Snake is notable because its diet includes other snakes, even venomous rattlesnakes. The Speckled King Snake, found nearly statewide, is known for its immunity to pit viper venom and has a distinctive black and white speckled pattern. They help maintain a natural balance by preying on smaller snakes and rodents.
Recognizing Oklahoma’s Venomous Species
All of Oklahoma’s venomous snakes belong to the pit viper family, including rattlesnakes, the Copperhead, and the Cottonmouth. Pit vipers share distinct physical characteristics, including a noticeable pit organ between the eye and nostril used for detecting heat. Their heads are typically triangular, wider than their necks, and they possess elliptical pupils.
Rattlesnakes are the largest group. The presence of a segmented rattle at the tail’s end is the most obvious sign, though the rattle can be broken off, or juveniles may only have a small button. The Western Diamond-backed Rattlesnake features alternating black and white bands on its tail just before the rattle.
Rattlesnake Species
- Western Diamond-backed
- Prairie
- Timber
- Massasauga
- Pygmy Rattlesnakes
The Copperhead is characterized by its light brown body overlaid with dark, hourglass-shaped crossbands. These snakes are often camouflaged in leaf litter. While their venom is less potent than a rattlesnake’s, bites require immediate medical attention. Juvenile copperheads use their bright tail tip to lure prey.
The Cottonmouth, or Water Moccasin, is the state’s only venomous water snake, typically found in aquatic habitats in eastern and southeastern Oklahoma. They are dark, heavy-bodied snakes that display a defensive posture by opening their mouth to reveal the bright white interior. Unlike non-venomous water snakes, the Cottonmouth often swims with its body floating on top of the water.
The Texas Coral Snake, a rare Elapid species, is found only in the extreme southern part of the state. Its identification relies on a specific color pattern: a slender body with alternating red, yellow, and black bands, where the red bands touch the yellow bands. The rhyme “Red and yellow kill a fellow” is a common mnemonic.
Where Snakes Live in Oklahoma
Oklahoma’s varied landscape, from eastern forests to western prairies, dictates snake distribution. Eastern Oklahoma, with its dense forests and abundant water, is where the Copperhead, Cottonmouth, and Timber Rattlesnake are most common. These species thrive in the moisture and cover provided by this environment.
Western Oklahoma and the Panhandle regions, characterized by arid grasslands and rocky canyons, are the primary habitats for the Prairie Rattlesnake and Western Diamond-backed Rattlesnake. These snakes utilize rodent burrows and rock crevices for shelter. Encounters often occur near common features like tall grass, woodpiles, or rocky outcroppings, which provide cover and basking opportunities.
Snakes are drawn to sources of food and water, which often leads them into proximity with human activity. Even in suburban areas, snakes may be found utilizing rock walls, dense landscaping, or debris piles for shelter and hunting.
Safe Encounters and Prevention
The simplest rule for safety is to leave all snakes alone, as most bites occur when people try to handle or harass them. If a snake is spotted, slowly back away and allow the reptile to retreat. Never attempt to confirm a snake’s identity by getting closer or trying to provoke a defensive response.
Preventing encounters around the home involves reducing potential hiding places and food sources. Regular yard maintenance, such as clearing woodpiles, rock stacks, and dense brush away from the house, eliminates suitable shelter. When hiking or working outdoors, wearing sturdy, high-topped boots and long pants offers a physical barrier against a strike.
If a venomous snake bite occurs, immediate action is necessary. Remain calm, call emergency services immediately, and keep the bitten limb immobilized at or below heart level. Wash the wound gently with soap and water if available. Avoid applying a tourniquet, cutting the wound, or attempting to suck out the venom, as these actions are ineffective.