Colorado is home to some of the most diverse types of snakes in the United States.
Colorado is home to various types of snakes, from the small, harmless garter snake to the deadly and elusive rattlesnake.
In this post, we’ll discuss the most fascinating types of snakes in Colorado, so if you’re interested in learning more about these slithery creatures, read on!
1. Glossy Snake
One of the many types of snakes in Colorado is the glossy snake, also known as the Arizona glossy snake.
These snakes can be found in southern Colorado and prefer rocky and sandy habitats. They are usually active during the day and can grow up to 3 feet long.
The glossy snake’s most distinctive feature is its shiny scales, which give it a sleek appearance. Its coloring varies from light brown to gray and is often marked with darker spots or stripes.
Glossy snakes are non-venomous and mainly feed on lizards and small rodents. Humans do not commonly see them; they tend to be shy and secretive.
However, they play an important role in the ecosystem by keeping the population of rodents and other small animals in check.
The glossy snake is a fascinating species among Colorado’s many types of snakes.
2. Common Garter Snake
One of Colorado’s most common snakes is the Common Garter Snake. This species can be found throughout the state, including in residential areas and near water sources.
They are usually around 2-3 feet long and have distinctive stripes running down their bodies. These stripes can be green, brown, yellow, or red.
Common Garter Snakes are not venomous and are generally harmless to humans. They primarily feed on insects, small amphibians, and fish.
Interestingly, they also secrete a foul-smelling liquid when threatened as a defense mechanism.
During the breeding season, Common Garter Snakes form mating balls, where multiple males compete for the attention of a single female. The females then give birth to a litter of 10-40 young.
Although they may not be as impressive as some of Colorado’s larger and more venomous types of snakes.
The Common Garter Snake plays an important role in the ecosystem and can be a fascinating sight to observe in the wild.
3. Common Kingsnake
The Common Kingsnake, also known as the Chain Kingsnake, is one of Colorado’s most well-known snake species.
They are known for their distinct banding patterns, which run the length of their bodies and usually consist of black, white, brown, or yellow.
They can grow up to four feet long and are non-venomous, making them a favorite among reptile enthusiasts.
Kingsnakes are opportunistic hunters, feeding on various prey, including rodents, birds, and other snakes.
They are also known for their immunity to the venom of other snakes, which has led to their reputation as “king” snakes.
If threatened, kingsnakes will often vibrate their tail, hiss, and release a foul-smelling musk as a defense mechanism.
While Common Kingsnakes are relatively common in Colorado, they are still protected, and collecting them without a permit is illegal.
As with all snakes, respecting their space and avoiding interacting with them in the wild is important.
If you encounter a kingsnake or any other snake in Colorado, admire it from a safe distance and let it continue on its way.
4. Western Rattlesnake
One of Colorado’s most recognizable types of snakes is the Western Rattlesnake.
They are known for their distinctive rattling noise, which they use as a warning signal to ward off potential predators.
These venomous snakes are found throughout the state, especially in rocky and desert regions.
They can grow up to 5 feet in length and have a brownish-gray color with dark stripes along their back.
Western Rattlesnakes are ambush predators, waiting for their prey to pass by before striking and injecting venom.
Despite their venomous nature, Western Rattlesnakes are an important part of Colorado’s ecosystem, helping control rodent populations.
If you encounter a Western Rattlesnake in the wild, it is important to give it plenty of space and respect its boundaries.
5. Bullsnake
Another large snake species found in Colorado is the bullsnake. Known for their intimidating size, bullsnakes can grow up to six feet long and have a distinctive brownish-yellow coloration with dark brown blotches.
They are commonly found in prairies and grasslands throughout the state, feeding on small rodents, birds, and even snakes.
Despite their intimidating appearance, bullsnakes are generally docile and often try to flee from predators rather than attack.
They are also known for their impressive ability to mimic the sound of a rattlesnake, which can be useful in deterring potential threats.
In addition to their ecological importance as predators, bullsnakes are also culturally significant to some Native American tribes who use their skins in traditional ceremonies and rituals.
However, like many snake species, bullsnakes are threatened by habitat loss and human persecution.
Humans must understand and appreciate the role these snakes play in the ecosystem and take measures to protect their habitats.
6. Blackneck Garter Snake
The Blackneck Garter Snake is one of Colorado’s most common types. It is easily identifiable by its black neckband, which gives it its name.
These snakes are usually found near streams, ponds, and wetlands and are active during the day.
They are non-venomous and pose no threat to humans, but they are known to release a musky odor when handled.
Blackneck Garter Snakes can vary in size, but adults usually grow to be around 16-24 inches long.
They are typically brown or green, with stripes running down their backs. Their diet consists mainly of small amphibians, fish, and insects.
One interesting fact about the Blackneck Garter Snake is that it is one of the few snake species known to hibernate in groups. During the colder months, it often seeks refuge in crevices, under rocks, or in burrows.
Overall, the Blackneck Garter Snake is a fascinating and harmless member of Colorado’s many types of snakes.
7. Smith’s Black-headed Snake
The Smith’s Black-headed Snake, also known as the Smith’s Snake, is a non-venomous snake found in various habitats throughout Colorado, such as sagebrush, shrubland, and grasslands.
It has a distinctive appearance, with a black head and a light-colored body ranging from cream to pale yellow.
This species is relatively small, with an average length of around 12-15 inches. Despite its small size, the Smith’s Black-headed Snake is an active predator and feeds on various prey, including insects, lizards, and small rodents.
One interesting behavior of this species is its ability to mimic the venomous Western Rattlesnake by vibrating its tail, hissing, and flattening its head when threatened.
The Smith’s Black-headed Snake is an important part of Colorado’s ecosystem. It helps to control rodent populations and serves as prey for larger predators.
Although they may be hard to spot due to their small size and cryptic coloration, encountering one of these fascinating snakes in the wild can be a memorable experience for any nature lover.
8. Northern Watersnake
Another type of snake in Colorado is the Northern Watersnake. This species is known for its semi-aquatic nature and can be found near rivers, streams, and other bodies of water throughout the state.
The Northern Watersnake is a non-venomous snake but can still deliver a painful bite if threatened.
These snakes are typically brown or gray in color, with darker bands on their bodies. They are also known for their broad, flattened heads, which help them swim through water more efficiently.
Despite their intimidating appearance, Northern Watersnakes play an important role in the ecosystem.
They help to control populations of smaller animals, such as fish and frogs, which helps to maintain a balance in the food chain.
If you happen to encounter a Northern Watersnake in the wild, it’s best to observe it from a distance and not disturb it.
As with all types of snakes in Colorado, it’s important to respect their space and remember that they are an important part of the natural environment.
9. Central Plains Milk Snake
Another interesting species of snake in Colorado is the Central Plains Milk Snake.
This snake is commonly found in the eastern and central regions of the state, typically in grasslands, meadows, and shrublands.
Its bright red, black, and white banded pattern makes it easily identifiable, and due to its similar appearance, it is often mistaken for a venomous coral snake.
However, the Central Plains Milk Snake is non-venomous and harmless to humans.
These snakes are quite docile and make for popular pets among reptile enthusiasts. They primarily feed on small rodents, lizards, and insects.
Like most snakes, the Central Plains Milk Snake prefers to avoid human interaction and will only bite if provoked or threatened.
It is important to remember that snakes play an important role in their ecosystems and should be respected and admired from a distance.
If you come across a Central Plains Milk Snake or any other species of snake in Colorado, take a moment to appreciate their beauty and give them the space they need to thrive in their natural habitats.
10. Midget Faded Rattlesnake
The Midget Faded Rattlesnake, also known as the Little Grey Rattlesnake, is a small species found in Colorado.
They typically grow up to a maximum length of 28 inches and have a distinctive grey or brownish-grey color.
Despite their small size, Midget Faded Rattlesnakes have a potent venom that can cause serious harm to humans and animals.
Midget Faded Rattlesnakes prefer dry, rocky habitats and are often found in higher elevations.
They are primarily active at night and during the early morning hours and are known to hibernate during winter.
When threatened, these rattlesnakes will use their rattles to warn predators to stay away.
While the Midget Faded Rattlesnake may be small, it is still an important part of Colorado’s ecosystem.
Like all snakes, it is vital in controlling rodent populations and maintaining balance within the food chain.
If you encounter a Midget Faded Rattlesnake in the wild, it’s important to give it plenty of space and avoid unnecessary contact to ensure the safety of both you and the snake.
11. Western Massasauga
The Western Massasauga is one of the smallest types of snakes in Colorado, with an average length of only 2 feet.
It can be found in the state’s southeastern part, where it prefers to inhabit wetlands and marshy areas. Although it is venomous, its venom is not usually lethal to humans.
The Western Massasauga has a distinctive brown or gray body with a pattern of dark spots and bands. It is also known for its upturned snout and vertically slit pupils.
While sightings of the Western Massasauga are rare due to its small size and reclusive nature, it is important to be aware of its presence in certain areas of Colorado.
If you encounter a Western Massasauga or any other type of snake in Colorado, it is best to give it a wide berth and avoid disturbing it.
12. Striped Whipsnake
The Striped Whipsnake is one of the most unique snakes found in Colorado.
This long and slender snake is known for its distinct stripes, which run down its body and range from light gray to dark brown.
These stripes make it easy to identify the Striped Whipsnake from other species.
This snake can grow up to 4 feet long and is a quick and agile mover. It feeds on small mammals, lizards, and other snakes.
Despite its name, it doesn’t whip its prey with its tail like some other species.
The Striped Whipsnake is found in dry grasslands, deserts, and canyons. It is most active during the day, making it a popular sight for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
Like many other snakes in Colorado, the Striped Whipsnake is non-venomous and generally harmless to humans.
If you come across one, it’s best to admire it from a safe distance and let it go about its business in its natural habitat.
13. Great Basin Gopher Snake
The Great Basin Gopher Snake is a non-venomous species found in Colorado. It is typically found in arid regions and can grow up to 6 feet long.
Its coloration varies from tan to dark brown, with blotches or stripes along its back.
This snake is known for its strong constricting abilities and is often mistaken for a rattlesnake due to its defensive behavior of flattening its head and vibrating its tail.
However, it does not have a rattle. The Great Basin Gopher Snake primarily feeds on rodents and small mammals.
It is an important part of the ecosystem as it helps to control rodent populations. Although not typically aggressive, this snake will defend itself if threatened.
It is important to remember that all types of snakes in Colorado play a vital role in the ecosystem and should be respected from a safe distance.
14. Western Hognose
The Western Hognose snake, also known as the Plains Hognose, is a fascinating species found in Colorado. It is a medium-sized snake that can grow up to three feet in length.
These snakes have a distinctive upturned snout, which they use for digging for prey. Their diet primarily consists of toads, but they also eat lizards and rodents.
The Western Hognose is known for its unique defense mechanism. When threatened, they flatten their heads and necks, hiss, and pretend to strike, but they rarely bite.
If their bluff doesn’t work, they will flip onto their backs and play dead, even sticking out their tongues and emitting a foul odor to deter predators.
Although they are harmless to humans, the Western Hognose is a protected species in Colorado, and capturing or killing them is illegal.
If you come across a Western Hognose, enjoy watching its unique behavior from a safe distance.
These fascinating creatures play an important role in Colorado’s ecosystem, and their conservation is vital to maintaining a healthy environment.
