Pennsylvania is home to a few species of venomous snakes. Understanding how to identify these snakes, their typical habitats, and proper responses to encounters or bites is important for safety, especially when engaging in outdoor activities.
Identifying Pennsylvania’s Venomous Snakes
Pennsylvania hosts three species of venomous pit vipers: the Northern Copperhead, the Timber Rattlesnake, and the Eastern Massasauga. These snakes have heat-sensing pits between their eyes and nostrils, and elliptical pupils, similar to a cat’s eye in bright light. Non-venomous snakes in Pennsylvania typically have round pupils.
The Northern Copperhead is the most widespread venomous snake in the state. It is identifiable by its distinctive banding pattern, which resembles an hourglass or a Hershey’s Kiss, being narrowest across the back and wider on the sides. Their body coloration ranges from copper to hazel-brown, sometimes with pink or orange hues, and their head is typically a solid copper or bronze color without markings.
The Timber Rattlesnake is the largest venomous snake in Pennsylvania, often reaching lengths of 36 to 54 inches. They are recognized by their triangular head and the presence of a rattle at the end of their black tail. Timber Rattlesnakes exhibit two main color phases: a yellow phase with dark brown or black crossbands, and a black phase where darker flecking covers most of the lighter coloration.
The Eastern Massasauga is Pennsylvania’s smallest and rarest venomous snake, typically measuring 20 to 30 inches. This critically endangered species is characterized by dark brown or black blotches along its back, with smaller spots on its sides, set against a brownish-gray to almost black background. Its rattle produces a sound that is often described as a soft buzz, barely audible beyond a few feet.
Where Venomous Snakes Reside
Venomous snakes in Pennsylvania inhabit specific environments. Northern Copperheads are quite adaptable and can be found across most of the state, excluding the northernmost counties. They favor rocky hillsides, wooded areas, stream banks, and suburban edges, often seeking refuge in abandoned foundations, woodpiles, or brush piles.
Timber Rattlesnakes primarily inhabit the mountainous and forested regions, particularly the central two-thirds of Pennsylvania. They are frequently associated with rocky outcrops, steep ledges, and deciduous forests, often basking on sun-exposed rocks. Males may travel into valleys during the summer, while pregnant females tend to stay closer to den sites.
The Eastern Massasauga’s distribution is highly restricted due to its endangered status. It is primarily confined to wetland areas in a few northwestern counties, including Mercer, Lawrence, Butler, southern Crawford, and Venango counties. This species prefers poorly drained, wet habitats for much of the year.
Safe Encounters and Emergency Response
Encountering a venomous snake in Pennsylvania requires caution. Maintain a safe distance and never attempt to handle, capture, or kill the snake. Most snakebites occur when individuals try to interact with the snake, often by attempting to move it. If a snake is spotted, give it space and allow it to move away on its own.
To minimize encounters, wear sturdy boots when hiking or working outdoors. Avoid reaching into unseen areas such as under logs, rocks, or dense brush where snakes might be resting. Keeping residential yards clear of clutter like woodpiles and overgrown vegetation can also reduce potential snake habitats.
In the event of a venomous snakebite, immediate professional medical attention is necessary. Call 911 or proceed to the nearest emergency room. While waiting for medical help, remain calm, as panic can accelerate the spread of venom.
Keep the bitten area immobilized and, if possible, position it below the level of the heart to slow venom circulation. Remove any jewelry or tight clothing near the bite site to accommodate potential swelling. Do not attempt to cut the wound, apply a tourniquet, suck out venom, or apply ice or heat, as these actions can cause more harm.