Arizona, with its diverse landscapes ranging from scorching deserts to pine-covered mountains, provides a habitat for a variety of snake species. Over 50 different snake species inhabit the state, adapting to these varied environments. This rich biodiversity makes Arizona a region for snake populations, supporting both venomous and non-venomous types.
Common Venomous Snakes
Arizona is home to several venomous snake species, including rattlesnakes, which are distinguished by their characteristic rattle at the tail’s end. The Western Diamondback Rattlesnake is a common sight, recognizable by its brown, gray, or pinkish coloration with dark, diamond-shaped blotches outlined by lighter scales along its back. This pit viper can reach lengths exceeding 7 feet, though 3 to 5 feet is more typical, and possesses heat-sensing pits between its eyes and nostrils for detecting prey.
The Mojave Rattlesnake often has a pale green or olive hue and can grow to about 4 feet long. It can be confused with the Western Diamondback, but the Mojave Rattlesnake typically has white tail bands that are wider than its black bands, unlike the roughly equal banding on a diamondback’s tail. Sidewinders are smaller rattlesnakes, typically around 2 feet long, known for their unique “sidewinding” locomotion which helps them move across loose sand. They often have raised scales above their eyes resembling horns.
The Sonoran Coral Snake is another venomous species. This small, slender snake, typically 13 to 21 inches long, displays bright alternating bands of red, black, and narrower yellow or white, with the red bands touching the yellow bands. Its head is black to behind the eyes and is blunt. Despite its potent neurotoxic venom, the Sonoran Coral Snake is secretive and rarely seen, posing less danger to humans than rattlesnakes due to its small mouth and fangs.
Common Non-Venomous Snakes
Arizona also hosts a wide array of non-venomous snakes, which play important roles in the ecosystem. The Gopher Snake is a frequently encountered non-venomous species, often mistaken for a rattlesnake due to its similar coloring and habit of coiling and hissing when threatened. These snakes can grow quite long, typically around 4 feet, but some individuals may reach up to 9 feet. They have round pupils and lack a rattle, distinguishing them from rattlesnakes.
King Snakes are beneficial non-venomous constrictors known for preying on other snakes, including rattlesnakes, as they are immune to their venom. In the Sonoran Desert, many King Snakes are dark brown or black with narrower bands of yellow, white, or cream, and can reach lengths of about 3.5 feet. Some King Snake species, like the Sonoran Mountain Kingsnake, have red, black, and yellow bands, which can sometimes lead to confusion with the venomous Sonoran Coral Snake. However, the Sonoran Coral Snake’s red bands touch yellow bands, while King Snake patterns typically have black bands separating red and yellow (or white) bands, and the coral snake has a black snout.
Garter Snakes are common non-venomous snakes, often found near water sources like streams or ponds. These slender snakes, typically green or brown with stripes or spots, are generally docile. The Coachwhip is a fast-moving, slender non-venomous snake that can grow to 6 to 8 feet long. Their coloration varies widely, including tan, gray, pink, or black, and they are frequently seen crossing roads in open terrain.
Habitats and Identification Basics
Arizona’s diverse topography creates varied habitats for different snake species. Deserts, such as the Sonoran Desert, are home to many species adapted to arid conditions, including rattlesnakes like the Western Diamondback and Mojave Rattlesnake. Mountainous regions and pine woodlands, particularly at higher elevations, host species like the Sonoran Mountain Kingsnake and some garter snake varieties. Riparian areas, characterized by water sources like streams and washes, are favored by water-loving species such as garter snakes and some kingsnakes.
When attempting to identify a snake, observing from a safe distance is important. General characteristics like overall size, body shape, and coloration patterns are helpful. Venomous pit vipers, including most rattlesnakes, generally have broad, triangular heads and often possess vertical, slit-like pupils, though pupil shape can be difficult to discern from a distance. Non-venomous snakes often have more slender heads proportional to their bodies and round pupils. However, some non-venomous snakes, like the Gopher Snake, can flatten their heads to mimic a triangular shape when threatened, so this characteristic alone is not definitive.
Living Safely Alongside Arizona’s Snakes
Coexisting with snakes in Arizona involves preventative measures and knowing how to react during an encounter. Removing potential snake attractants from around homes, such as piles of debris, wood, or rock, deters them, as these provide shelter and hunting grounds. Sealing gaps and cracks in foundations and around doors prevents snakes from entering structures. Reducing rodent populations, a primary food source for many snakes, makes an area less appealing.
If a snake is encountered, remain calm and maintain a safe distance. Snakes generally prefer to avoid human interaction and will typically move away if given space. Never attempt to handle, harass, or kill a snake, as this increases the risk of a bite. In the event a snake is found in an undesirable location, such as inside a home, contact a professional snake removal service. These services are licensed to safely and humanely relocate snakes, ensuring the well-being of both people and the animal. Snakes are an integral part of Arizona’s ecosystem, helping to control rodent populations and maintain ecological balance.