New York State is home to 17 different snake species, inhabiting diverse landscapes from forests to wetlands and suburban areas. These reptiles play an important part in the state’s ecosystems. Understanding these species helps promote safe coexistence.
New York’s Venomous Snakes
New York State hosts three uncommon venomous snake species. They are generally shy, preferring to avoid human contact, and typically only strike if threatened or provoked.
The Timber Rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus) is New York’s largest venomous snake, reaching three to four feet or more. It often displays black or dark brown crossbands against a yellowish, brown, or gray background. A distinctive rattle at its tail produces a buzzing sound. Primarily found in southeastern New York, the Southern Tier, and eastern Adirondacks, this species prefers deciduous forests in rugged terrain. It is listed as threatened due to habitat loss and historical persecution.
The Eastern Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix) is recognizable by its reddish-brown or copper-colored head and hourglass-shaped crossbands, wider at the sides and narrower along the spine, helping them blend into leaf litter. Found mainly in the lower Hudson Valley and Catskills, this pit viper possesses heat-sensing pits between its eyes and nostrils to detect prey.
The Eastern Massasauga (Sistrurus catenatus) is New York’s smallest venomous snake, typically two feet long. It has a thick body, a heart-shaped head, and is tan, gray, or light brown with large, chocolate brown spots. This species is extremely rare and listed as endangered, existing in only two isolated wetland complexes near Syracuse and Rochester. Unlike other rattlesnakes, the Eastern Massasauga often does not hibernate in communal dens.
Common Non-Venomous Snakes of New York
New York is home to many non-venomous snake species, comprising the majority of its snake population. These snakes are harmless to humans and play beneficial roles in the ecosystem by controlling rodent and insect populations.
The Common Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis) is New York’s most widespread and frequently encountered snake. Highly variable in color and pattern, it often has a dark body with three yellowish stripes, typically reaching 18 to 26 inches. Found in woodlands, marshes, fields, and suburban areas, garter snakes are active both day and night, preying on slugs, worms, amphibians, and small fish.
The Northern Water Snake (Nerodia sipedon) is common near water bodies and wetlands statewide. These robust snakes are typically brown to brownish-black with darker crossband markings, growing up to five feet long. While non-venomous, they may flatten their bodies and bite if agitated, and are sometimes mistaken for cottonmouths, which do not inhabit New York. They primarily feed on fish and amphibians.
The Black Rat Snake (Pantherophis obsoletus), also known as Eastern Rat Snake, is New York’s largest non-venomous snake, reaching 3.5 to 7 feet. It has shiny black scales, a lighter belly, and a white chin and throat. These excellent climbers are often found in trees and control rodent populations in forests, farmlands, and suburban areas.
The Milk Snake (Lampropeltis triangulum) is boldly patterned with brown or reddish blotches on a light gray to tan body, often featuring a Y- or V-shaped head marking. Typically two to three feet long, milk snakes are frequently found in barns and outbuildings hunting rodents, leading to the old misconception that they drink cow’s milk. They are constrictors, subduing prey by coiling around them.
The Northern Ring-necked Snake (Diadophis punctatus edwardsii) is a small, slender snake, usually under 15 inches, named for the distinct yellow or orange band around its neck. Its body is bluish-black to gray with a bright yellow or orange belly. These secretive snakes prefer moist, shady woodlands, found under rocks, logs, or leaf litter, and primarily feed on earthworms and salamanders.
The Smooth Green Snake (Opheodrys vernalis) is identified by its uniform bright green coloration, providing camouflage in grassy and shrubby areas. These small, slender snakes range from 10 to 22 inches with a white or pale yellow belly. Gentle and rarely biting, they prefer to flee when threatened. Their diet of insects, spiders, and slugs makes them susceptible to pesticides.
Living Alongside New York’s Snakes
Coexisting with snakes involves understanding their behavior and respecting their natural role. Snakes are generally shy, preferring to avoid human interaction and retreating when approached. Most snake bites occur when people attempt to handle or harass them, so observing snakes from a distance is always safest.
To discourage snakes around homes, maintain yard areas by removing clutter like woodpiles, rock piles, and debris, and keeping grass mowed short. If a snake is encountered, remain calm and give it space to move away. Do not attempt to capture, handle, or harm the snake.
Snakes provide a valuable service in New York’s ecosystems by controlling rodent and insect populations. Their presence indicates a healthy natural environment. All native snakes in New York are protected under the New York State Environmental Conservation Law (ECL 11-0103(2)(c) and 6 NYCRR Section 3.3). This means it is illegal to capture, kill, or possess any native snake without a specific permit.