New York State is home to 17 native snake species. The vast majority of snakes encountered across the state are non-venomous and pose no threat to humans. These animals play an important ecological role, primarily by controlling rodent and insect populations. Understanding which species inhabit the region and how to identify them is key to safe coexistence.
New York’s Venomous Snakes
Of the 17 native species, only three are capable of delivering medically significant venom. The two most relevant species are the Timber Rattlesnake and the Eastern Copperhead. Both are pit vipers, identifiable by their broad, triangular heads and heat-sensing pits located between the eye and nostril. These species are reclusive, preferring to remain still and camouflaged rather than engaging with people.
The Eastern Copperhead is recognized by its distinctive color pattern of dark, reddish-brown crossbands shaped like an hourglass against a lighter background. These bands offer excellent camouflage on the forest floor, especially among leaf litter. Copperheads are mostly found in the lower Hudson Valley and parts of the Catskills. Juveniles possess a bright, sulfur-yellow tip on their tails.
The Timber Rattlesnake is the largest venomous snake in New York, reaching lengths of three to four feet. It is characterized by its heavy, stocky body and the segmented rattle at the end of its tail. This species exhibits two common color phases: a yellow phase with dark crossbands, and a black phase where the snake appears nearly solid dark brown or black. Timber Rattlesnakes are primarily confined to rugged, rocky, mountainous areas in the southeastern part of the state.
A third venomous species, the Eastern Massasauga, exists in New York but is extremely rare. It is confined to only two small, isolated wetland areas.
Common Terrestrial Species
The most frequently encountered snake in New York is the Common Garter Snake, which thrives in almost every habitat, including woodlands, fields, and suburban gardens. These slender snakes exhibit a dark background color set off by three light-colored stripes running the length of the body. Garter snakes are diurnal, active during the day, and feed on earthworms, slugs, and amphibians.
Another common land species is the Eastern Rat Snake, the longest snake found in New York, with some adults exceeding six feet. Adults are almost entirely glossy black with a white chin and throat, and they are exceptional climbers often found near farm buildings or in trees. The Eastern Milk Snake is frequently mistaken for the venomous Copperhead due to its coloration, but it is harmless. Milk Snakes have reddish-brown blotches bordered with black against a gray or tan background. A characteristic light-colored V or Y shape on the back of their head distinguishes them from the Copperhead’s hourglass pattern.
Aquatic and Semi-Aquatic Species
Snakes found near bodies of water are typically the Northern Water Snake, a robust, non-venomous species rarely found far from lakes, rivers, or wetlands. This snake has dark crossbands or blotches that often darken considerably in older adults, making them appear almost uniformly black. The Northern Water Snake is often mistaken for the venomous Cottonmouth, a species that does not naturally occur in New York State.
If cornered, Northern Water Snakes will flatten their bodies and heads aggressively and strike repeatedly, leading to their reputation as “mean,” even though their bite is not venomous. A smaller, more secretive aquatic snake is the Queen Snake, which is associated with clean, rocky-bottomed streams and rivers. This slender snake has a specialized diet, feeding almost exclusively on freshly molted crayfish. Its presence is an indicator of good water quality and a stable crustacean population.
Encountering Snakes Safely
The most important rule when encountering any snake is to leave it alone and observe it from a distance. Snakes only strike when they feel threatened and will almost always retreat if given an opportunity to escape. Never attempt to handle, harass, or feed a snake, as this is when most bites occur.
All native New York snakes, including the venomous species, are protected by law, which prohibits their harassment, capture, or killing. To discourage snakes from inhabiting areas around a home, remove potential cover such as rock piles, wood stacks, and thick, low-lying vegetation. In the rare event of a bite from a venomous snake, remain calm, keep the affected limb still, and seek medical attention immediately by calling emergency services.