Are you curious about the types of snakes in Oklahoma? From the harmless garter snake to the venomous western cottonmouth, Oklahoma is home to many species of snakes.
We’ll explore the different snakes and how to differentiate between venomous and non-venomous snakes.
Whether you’re an avid herpetologist or want to know more about the snakes in Oklahoma, this list has something for everyone!
So, keep reading to learn about Oklahoma‘s venomous and non-venomous types of snakes.
1. Copperhead
Copperheads are one of the nasty types of snakes in Oklahoma. These snakes are known for their distinctive copper-colored heads, which give them their name.
While copperheads can be found throughout the state, they are most commonly found in wooded areas.
Their venom is potent and can cause serious harm, so it’s important to exercise caution if you encounter a copperhead.
Being aware of the snakes in Oklahoma, like the copperhead, can help you stay safe and appreciate the diverse wildlife that can be found in the state.
2. Cottonmouth
The cottonmouth is another venomous snake that can be found in Oklahoma. These snakes are known for their dark coloration and the white lining inside their mouth, which gives them their name.
Cottonmouths are typically found near bodies of water, such as swamps, marshes, and rivers. Their venom is extremely potent, and a bite from a cottonmouth can be very dangerous.
It’s important to be cautious if you come across a cottonmouth and to give them a wide berth to ensure your safety.
3. Western Massasauga
The Western Massasauga is a venomous snake that can be found in Oklahoma.
These snakes have a gray or brownish-gray coloration with dark blotches on their back. They are most commonly found in grasslands, prairies, and wetland areas.
While their venom is not as potent as other venomous snakes, a bite from a Western Massasauga can still be harmful.
It’s important to be cautious if you encounter one and give it space to avoid any potential danger.
4. Prairie Rattlesnake
The prairie rattlesnake is another fascinating snake species that can be found in Oklahoma.
Known for their distinctive rattling sound, prairie rattlesnakes are a vicious type of snake that inhabit grasslands and prairies.
These snakes have a unique color pattern, with dark brown or black blotches along their body.
While prairie rattlesnakes can be dangerous if provoked, they play an important role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems in Oklahoma.
Learning about the different types of snakes in Oklahoma, including the prairie rattlesnake, can help us appreciate the diversity of wildlife in our state.
5. Western Pygmy Rattlesnake
The Western Pygmy Rattlesnake is a venomous snake that can be found in Oklahoma.
These small snakes are typically less than 2 feet long and have a light gray or brown coloration with dark blotches along their back.
They are often found in grasslands, rocky areas, and woodlands. While their venom is not as potent as other venomous snakes, a bite from a Western Pygmy Rattlesnake can still be harmful, so it’s important to exercise caution if you encounter one.
Appreciating the diversity of snakes in Oklahoma includes understanding the habits and characteristics of the Western Pygmy Rattlesnake.
6. Timber Rattlesnake
The Timber Rattlesnake is a fascinating addition to the types of snakes in Oklahoma.
Known for their intimidating rattling sound, these venomous snakes can be found in wooded areas across the state. They have a distinct brown or gray coloration with dark bands along their body.
The Timber Rattlesnake plays an important role in the ecosystem and should be respected from a safe distance.
Understanding the behavior and characteristics of the Timber Rattlesnake is crucial for anyone exploring the diverse wildlife in Oklahoma.
So be cautious, keep a watchful eye, and appreciate the beauty of these incredible snakes.
7. Western Diamond-Backed Rattlesnake
The Western Diamond-Backed Rattlesnake is an impressive and venomous snake found in Oklahoma.
This snake commands attention with its striking diamond-shaped patterns on its back and its rattling tail. It can be found in various habitats, from grasslands to rocky areas.
While encounters with this snake are rare, it’s important to be cautious if you encounter one.
Remember to give it plenty of space and appreciate the beauty and uniqueness of this incredible snake from a safe distance.
8. Broad-Banded Water Snake
The Broad-Banded Water Snake is another fascinating species among the types of snakes in Oklahoma.
These non-venomous snakes can be found near bodies of water, such as lakes, ponds, and streams.
They have a distinctive broad-banded pattern on their back, which helps to differentiate them from other snakes.
Broad-banded water Snakes are harmless to humans and play an important role in controlling populations of small fish and amphibians.
If you come across one of these snakes, appreciate their beauty and observe them from a safe distance.
9. Dekay’s Brown Snake
The Dekay’s Brown snake is a non-venomous snake that can be found in Oklahoma.
These small snakes have a brown or gray coloration with darker blotches along their back. They are typically found in wooded areas and grasslands.
Dekay’s Brown snakes are harmless to humans and play an important role in controlling populations of insects and small invertebrates.
So, if you come across one of these fascinating snakes, take a moment to appreciate their beauty and observe them from a safe distance.
They are just one of the many incredible snake species that call Oklahoma home.
10. Eastern Hog-nosed Snake
The Eastern Hog-nosed Snake is a fascinating species found in Oklahoma. These non-venomous snakes have a unique appearance, with an upturned nose that resembles a hog’s snout.
They come in various colors, including brown, gray, and green, and have distinct blotches or patterns on their body.
Eastern Hognosed Snakes are known for their dramatic defensive behaviors, such as playing dead or hissing loudly.
Despite their intimidating display, they are harmless to humans and play an important role in controlling populations of small rodents and amphibians.
So if you encounter an Eastern Hognosed Snake in Oklahoma, appreciate its unique characteristics and observe it from a safe distance.
11. Racer Snake
The Racer Snake is one of Oklahoma‘s many fascinating types of snakes. These non-venomous snakes are known for their speed and agility, hence their name.
Racer Snakes can be found in various habitats, including grasslands, woodlands, and even urban areas. They are typically long and slender, with a sleek appearance.
While they may be harmless to humans, they are highly efficient predators, feeding on small mammals, birds, and even other snakes.
The Racer Snake is just another example of Oklahoma’s incredible diversity of snake species.
12. Graham’s Crayfish Snake
Graham’s Crayfish Snake is another interesting addition to the types of snakes in Oklahoma.
These non-venomous snakes have a unique habitat preference – they are commonly found near bodies of water, such as streams and ponds.
With their slender bodies and brown coloration, Graham’s Crayfish Snakes blend well with their surroundings.
As their name suggests, they primarily feed on crayfish, making them an important part of the ecosystem.
While encounters with Graham’s Crayfish Snakes may be rare, learning about these lesser-known snake species adds to our understanding and appreciation of the diverse wildlife found in Oklahoma.
13. Gulf Crayfish Snake
The Gulf Crayfish Snake is a fascinating snake species that can be found in Oklahoma.
These non-venomous snakes have a unique adaptation – they are primarily found near bodies of water, such as streams and ponds.
With their slender bodies and brown coloration, Gulf Crayfish Snakes are well-adapted to their aquatic habitat.
They primarily feed on crayfish, making them an important part of the ecosystem.
Learning about these lesser-known snake species, like the Gulf Crayfish Snake, allows us to appreciate Oklahoma’s incredible diversity of wildlife and the unique adaptations that make each species special.
14. Kansas Glossy Snake
The Kansas Glossy Snake is another fascinating addition to the types of snakes in Oklahoma.
These non-venomous snakes are known for their glossy appearance, with smooth scales that reflect light. They can be found in various habitats, including grasslands and woodlands.
Although encounters with Kansas Glossy Snakes may be rare, learning about these lesser-known snake species adds to our understanding and appreciation of Oklahoma’s incredible diversity of wildlife.
So keep your eyes peeled for this glossy beauty when exploring the natural wonders of Oklahoma.
15. Western Milksnake
The Western Milksnake is a fascinating snake species that can be found in Oklahoma.
These non-venomous snakes have a distinctive pattern of bright colors, including red, black, and yellow, that can vary between individuals. They are often found in wooded areas and grasslands.
Although Western Milksnakes may resemble venomous Coral snakes, they are harmless to humans.
Observing the unique characteristics and behavior of the Western Milksnake can be a thrilling experience for anyone interested in the diverse wildlife of Oklahoma.
So keep your eyes open for this beautiful snake on your next adventure!
16. Northern Diamond-Backed Watersnake
The Northern Diamond-Backed Watersnake is another fascinating snake species found in Oklahoma.
These non-venomous snakes have a unique adaptation to their aquatic habitat. They are often found near bodies of water, such as streams and ponds.
With their diamond-like patterns and slender bodies, Northern Diamond-Backed Watersnakes are truly captivating to observe.
Although encounters with these snakes may be rare, learning about their characteristics and behavior adds to our understanding of the diverse wildlife in Oklahoma.
So keep an eye out for these water-loving snakes while exploring the types of snakes in Oklahoma!
17. Orange-Striped Ribbon Snake
The Orange-Striped Ribbon Snake is another captivating snake species found in Oklahoma.
These non-venomous snakes have a unique appearance, with vibrant orange stripes running along their body.
They are often found near bodies of water, such as streams and marshes. The striking coloration of the Orange-Striped Ribbon Snake makes it a true sight.
Observing these beautiful snakes in their natural habitat is a thrilling experience for anyone interested in the diverse wildlife of Oklahoma.
So keep your eyes peeled for the vibrant orange stripes of this stunning snake during your exploration of Oklahoma’s snake species.
18. Plain-Bellied Watersnake
The Plain-Bellied Watersnake is another intriguing snake species that can be found in Oklahoma.
These non-venomous snakes have a plain, unmarked belly, hence their name. They are often found near bodies of water, such as lakes, rivers, and streams.
With their slender bodies and aquatic adaptations, Plain-Bellied Watersnakes are skilled swimmers and hunters.
Although encounters with these snakes may be rare, learning about the different types of snakes in Oklahoma, like the Plain-Bellied Watersnake, adds to our understanding and appreciation of the incredible diversity of wildlife in the state.
19. Prairie Kingsnake
The Prairie Kingsnake is a fascinating snake species found in Oklahoma. These non-venomous snakes have a distinct pattern of dark brown or black blotches along their body.
They are typically found in grasslands and prairies, where they play an important role in controlling populations of small mammals and rodents.
Prairie Kingsnakes are known for their docile nature and are often kept as pets by snake enthusiasts.
Observing the unique characteristics and behavior of the Prairie Kingsnake can be a thrilling experience for anyone interested in the diverse wildlife of Oklahoma.
20. Ring-Necked Snake
The Ring-Necked Snake is another fascinating species that can be found in Oklahoma.
These non-venomous snakes have a unique ring-like pattern around their neck, which gives them their name. They are typically found in wooded areas and grasslands.
Ring-necked snakes are small and secretive, often hiding under logs or rocks.
Although encounters with these snakes may be rare, learning about the different types of snakes in Oklahoma, like the Ring-Necked Snake, adds to our understanding and appreciation of the incredible diversity of wildlife in the state.
21. Rough Green snake
The Rough Green snake is a fascinating species found in Oklahoma. These non-venomous snakes have bright green coloration and are known for their slender bodies.
They are typically found in wooded areas and grasslands. Rough green snakes are agile climbers often seen in trees and shrubs.
These snakes primarily feed on insects and small vertebrates. Spotting a Rough Greensnake in Oklahoma is a treat for any nature enthusiast.
So keep your eyes peeled and enjoy the beauty of this unique snake species.
22. Speckled Kingsnake
The Speckled Kingsnake is another fascinating snake species that can be found in Oklahoma.
This non-venomous snake has a distinct pattern of speckles or spots along its body, giving it a unique appearance.
Speckled Kingsnakes are typically found in various habitats, including grasslands, woodlands, and urban areas.
While encounters with this snake may be rare, learning about the different types of snakes in Oklahoma, like the Speckled Kingsnake, adds to our understanding and appreciation of the incredible diversity of wildlife in the state.
Watch for this stunning snake while exploring Oklahoma’s snake species!
Conclusion
In conclusion, Oklahoma has a diverse range of snake species, including venomous and non-venomous types.
Residents and visitors need to be aware of the different types of snakes in Oklahoma to ensure their safety and appreciate the incredible wildlife in the state.
Oklahoma’s variety of snake species is remarkable, from venomous snakes like the Copperhead and Cottonmouth to harmless species like the Broad-Banded Water Snake and Dekay’s Brownsnake.
So, whether you are an avid herpetologist or simply curious about the natural world, exploring the types of snakes in Oklahoma is fascinating.
