Their heads also have a unique shape that resembles the knobbly part of a branch. Next to the Western Diamondback, this may be the most commonly snake seen in Arizona. They can also change color to some degree, becoming more light or dark depending on various circumstances. Arizona's amazing reptile diversity is composed of six turtle species, 49 lizard species, and 52 species of snakes. When you login first time using a Social Login button, we collect your account public profile information shared by Social Login provider, based on your privacy settings. The Sonoran Mountain Kingsnake is a seldom-seen, non-venomous snake found in higher elevation mountainous woodlands throughout Arizona. This small, harmless snake is not often seen. If you're unsure, we will identify it for you for free., Send us a photo or text a picture to 480-694-3020. Black-Tailed Rattlesnake Crotalus molossus, Ridge-nosed Rattlesnake Crotalus willardi, Twin-spotted Rattlesnake Crotalus pricei, Arizona Black Rattlesnake Crotalus cerberus, Southwestern Speckled Rattlesnake Crotalus pyrrhus, Western Diamond-backed Rattlesnake Crotalus atrox, Western Massasauga Sistrurus tergeminus, 22 inches (Western Massasauga) to 66 inches (Western diamondback rattlesnake), The Arizona Black Rattlesnake is solid black, Broad, shield-shaped heads and elliptical pupils, Stout-bodied, robust snakes in shades of grey and brown, Final scales on the tails adapted to form a stiff rattle, Ranges from desert to prairie and grassland. It's face is relatively long and shovel-shaped. These are typically small snakes, with adults in the Phoenix and Tucson areas usually in the 12-18" range but elsewhere in Arizona they can reach sizes up to almost 3' long. They are heavy-bodied for their size, which can help differentiate them from the more commonly-seen variety of other small, ground-dwelling snakes. PetKeen.com does not intend to provide veterinary advice. They are small snakes, generally about a foot long (up to nearly 2' maximum length). Most encounters with a Coachwhip are just a quick glance as it quickly slides away from the area. In those cases, its best to contact a wildlife trapper. Stripes are generally 2:1 white to black, while the diamondback are 50:50 white to black. Leave a comment below now, Related Articles to Arizona Snakes Identification Guide, brochure about living with venomous snakes, Tennessee Snakes Species Guide (Pics, Safety Tips, & More! This snake can deliver a large amount of highly toxic venom and should be left alone if encountered. In the U.S., it is found in only a handful of mountain ranges in the sky islands region of Southeast Arizona at elevations above 4,000. Reptile Guide is also a Chewy affiliate partner. As babies, they are very small, only around 3" long, and may resemble a Blackheaded Snake until their mature coloration develops. If captured, the snake will continuously bite until released. (Masticophis bilineatus) Lets take a look at one or two of them. Though venomous, it constricts prey while venom is delivered by a chewing action. Being strong burrowers, the Glossy snake will choose areas with sandy soil where they can dig and take shelter from the heat of the day. Prey includes crickets, scorpions, and insect larvae. The Gopher snake is one of the most commonly seen in Arizona. From proper husbandry and habitat guidance, to articles on health concerns, diet, and extensive care guides, Reptile Guide is here to educate everyone on all things reptiles. King Cobra vs Rattlesnake: 5 Key Differences, Cottonmouth vs Rattlesnake: 5 Key Differences, Discover the Largest Anaconda Ever (A 33, Discover the Monster Snake 5X Bigger than, The 7 Best Snake Guard Chaps You Can Buy Today. The coachwhip is a long, slender snake. In fact, they are completely harmless, and it would be a challenge to try to get one to try and bite. However, if you take a good look, its fairly easy to distinguish the coral snake from similar species. It has a pale, brown dorsal stripe bordered by one dark stripe. When disturbed, the gophersnake will put on a defensive show. There was a brief attempt in 1993 to move the Rosy boa to a different genus because they share some characteristics with the Rubber boa. Tucson Always be extremely careful in Arizona when youre reaching out to touch trees or leaves or vines. Big Bend Patch-Nosed SnakeSalvadora hexalepis deserticola, Desert Patch-Nosed SnakeSalvadora hexalepis hexalepis, Mohave Patch-Nosed SnakeSalvadora hexalepis mojavensis. As the name suggests, this snakes best defense is its ability to slither quickly away from predators. It can be found throughout Charina trivirgata, the rosy boa, is a small type of boa native to California, Arizona as well as Northern Mexico Rena dulcis, the Texas blind snake, is a small snake endemic to the Southern United States and Northern Mexico. Their color is variable, usually consisting 3 dark dark brown stripes running the length of the body against a cream or grey base. They constrict their prey, pressing it against a solid surface or swallow it live. However, these shy and reclusive rattlesnakes are relatively small and prefer to live high in the mountains of Arizona, making human encounters rare and bites even rarer. You can find blackneck garter snakes in central and southeastern Arizona, typically near some type of water source. However, the Hopi rattlesnakes rattle is exceptionally brittle and breaks off much easier than the average rattlesnake. They can grow to be over two feet long. It has been observed that this behavior is specific to non-venomous species or those that possess a weak venom, unfit for defensive capabilities. Arizona has approximately 60 species of snake. Red next to black, friend of Jack. Most are desert colored meaning they have a mixture of tans, browns, and blacks. They are primarily snake eaters, but also eat lizards and invertebrates. We hope youve enjoyed this article about Arizona snakes. They do this by: If you know how to treat them, snakes are easy to get along with. A post shared by Stampede Reptiles (@stampedereptiles). Similar to the coachwhip, the Sonoran whipsnake is smaller and greenish-gray in color with two or three light colored stripes on each side of its body. Due to the lack of recorded medical evidence, the exact methods by which the Arizona Ridge-Nosed Rattlesnakes venom kills its prey remain mysterious. The desert kingsnake is a large black snake with yellow crossbands or spreckles. Sidewinders have a famous name and are extremely common where they are found, yet are quite uncommon to see for most. Diet: Lizards, snakes, small mammals, frogs, Sonoran Whipsnake Color, size, and pattern can vary greatly between communities, from small orange or reddish variants, or Hopi variety, to large-bodied, green, tan, or brown individuals. Most of these species are found in desert areas but Rattlesnakes are also known to be frequent visitors to golf courses and can be found out on the green. The coral snake is one of the prettiest deadly snakes on the planet. But, what snakes can we go out and see in real life? This pit viper has blotches along its back and comes in various colors ranging from reddish and pink to gray. When in danger, it will coil up and lift its backend, then unleash a foul odor! It may coil up, flatten its head into a triangular shape, hiss loudly, and shake its tail, to appear and sound like a rattlesnake. Snakes by US State Snake Image Gallery Snake Identification Privacy Policy Cookie Policy About Contact. Coachwhips can help reduce rattlesnakes in an area because they are rattlesnake-eaters. . Snakes - Tucson Herpetological Society. Its coloration is truly striking. With hundreds of articles on everything pertaining to lizards, turtles, and snakes, our experienced team provides reliable and accurate content you can trust. 2 recognized species, see article. Most of the venomous snakes in Arizona are rattlesnakes. Bot venomous and non-venomous snakes can have a banded appearance. But if it doesnt slither away it may try to play dead by flipping over on its back and lying motionless until you walk away. Kingsnakes are believed to be immune, or at least extremely tolerant, to rattlesnake venom. Fortunately, these snakes have a set of characteristics that make them easy to spot. They are most active at night, so you may see one crossing a road or a trail at night. Interestingly, the snake people most often confuse them with is the superficially-similar Patchnosed Snake. The nose is flat and jutted forward like a shovel so that the snake can essentially swim through the sand. Arizona is a genus of snakes in the family Colubridae. Lyre snakes are venomous, but like the vine snake, their venom isnt deadly. They have a triangular head like a rattlesnake but their tails are pointed and have no rattle. It is a relatively small snake, with adults seldom exceeding 2 in length. It lives in rocky areas and wedges itself in crevices and cracks in the rocks. The snake will mostly play dead when surprised by a predator . They are day-active, agile predators that often eat birds, lizards, and rodents. When attacked or handled, the long-nosed snake writhes and twists its body and defecates to deter predation. An eater of primarily lizard eggs, this snake is completely harmless. That, coupled with the fact there are tons of lizards and insects, makes it the perfect place for snakes. Its very possible that you will see a rattlesnake when you are out and about in Arizona, especially if youre in State Parks or other recreational areas. (Tantilla hobartsmithi) Multiple types of narrow or wide bands can be seen on snakes. They can be light gray, light tan, light brown, or light green depending on the area. this is because of the venom glands (this is less noticeable on the coral snake). A post shared by Michael Ruff (@ruff_herper). Total length:12 - 20 in (30 - 51 cm) The Tiger Rattlesnake has an unusually potent venom and should always be left alone if encountered. This species of Shovel-Nosed Snake are small, as are the other Shovel-nosed Snakes with white or cream and black bands and no red or orange. They're harmless and non-venomous, though if someone were to pick one up it is likely to bite. Most other species bands break off on their sides somewhere. It can also be found in rocky canyons, riparian areas, and transitional grasslands adjacent to heavily forrested areas. Their coloring is shades of brown or grey with a white-lined diamond pattern on their back. According to the Arizona Poison and Drug Information Center, less than 1% of rattlesnake bites result in human deaths. Their diet consists almost entirely of lizards. They are usually anywhere from three to five feet long and prefer arid desert habitats. A montane species, it is usually found in oak-juniper and pinon-juniper woodlands but may be found at lower elevations in moist canyons. You may suffer from itching, swelling, pain, and other symptoms but a bite from a lyre snake has led to zero reported fatalities. So, keep an eye on the ground and remember: red touches yellow, kills a fellow. They can be found in neighborhoods, as well as in the desert. Total length: 16 - 46 in (41 - 117 cm) Oliver (Ollie) Jones - A zoologist and freelance writer living in South Australia with his partner Alex, their dog Pepper, and their cat Steve (who declined to be pictured). Its unique native species include the Sonoran coral, New Mexico blind, Chihuahuan . Feigning Death in Snakes. Mexican vine snakes are very slender and usually between three and six feet long. They are a cream or tan color with, unlike the similar Spotted Leaf-Nosed Snake, a series of dark brown, incomplete bands along the body that are relatively few. They will open their mouths to hiss, and even rattle their striped tail while striking out towards a perceived threat. Fully grown, they will measure anywhere from 30 to 85 inches long. This is the species of Shovel-nosed Snake homeowners may find in the sandy areas around Phoenix. Continue with Recommended Cookies, Overview of Snakes Species in the United States. Reptile Guide is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. This non-venomous snake grows to an average of about eight inches long, making it a manageable pet for some reptile enthusiasts. The western patch-nose snake does not constrict its prey, but it does throw loops of its body over the prey, pinning it down until it can be swallowed. The desert kingsnake's dorsum is black or dark brown with yellow or off-white blotches. You may be able to differentiate it from the very similar-looking Groundsnake by the relatively short, fat appearance relative to its length. Species like the Western ground snake play an important role in balancing the ecosystem. Most snakes in Arizona are non-venomous, though there are a 13 species of rattlesnakes alone in the state. They are named for their smooth and glossy scales in tan, brown, and gray shades. A slightly broadened, rounded head with round pupils. They have a loosely banded pattern that is highly flecked to resemble granite within their habitat, and are usually small, with adults being typically around 2 in length. They constrict their prey because their mild venom is not effective on birds and mammals. They are completely harmless, and feed on termite larvae. True water snakes are a group of non-venomous, aquatic snakes that are adapted to living in or near bodies of water. A black snake with solid red and white bands that continue to the snakes underside, Generalists, prefer dry areas with sandy soils. Are Hedgehogs Nocturnal? Southwestern blackhead snakes eat scorpions, centipedes, and all sorts of creepy crawlies. Arizona is known for its hot sun and arid conditions. In Stone Canyon, captured snakes averaged 19.6 grams (0.04 lbs). This is why folks will often find them in their kitchens or bathrooms. The Eastern Racer snake will grow to be anywhere from 20 to 60 inches. (Salvadora hexalepis) The thornscrub hook-nosed snake, Gyalopion quadrangulare, is one of two hook-nosed snakes in the region. These snakes also sport a v-shaped marking on their heads, which supposedly resembles a lyre. They are seldom seen, but live in most of the Phoenix mountain areas and desert parks. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Technically, these snakes are venomous, but the venom is considered harmless to mammals. It is a semi-aquatic species and is usually found near a water source. The Midget Faded Rattlesnake is also notable for its particularly potent neurotoxic venom, referred to as concolor toxin. However, these shy and reclusive rattlesnakes are relatively small and prefer to live high in the mountains of Arizona, making human encounters rare and bites even rarer. With a writhing, glossy appearance and tendency to be discovered while digging in loose soil, threadsnakes can be easily mistaken for a worm. They are small and generally docile, but should not be handled for potential of being envenomated with neurotoxins. For example, the Arizona Ridgenosed Rattlesnake is very common in the right places, but the sight of one in the wild by a hiker or homeowner is quite rare. It has vertical pupils and a pair of dark blotches directly behind the head. They are considered to ne beneficial snakes, as a regular predator of venomous rattlesnakes. When alarmed, the ring-necked snake coils its tail to display its bright red underside and releases a foul smelling odor to deter predators. It is a relatively small snake, with adults seldom exceeding 2' in length. This will offend many predators into retreating. Arizona is one of the states that is known for having the most snakes. This small and elusive rattlesnake just barely makes it across the northern Arizona border. Some Arizona snakes are rarely seen, while others may show up in your backyard! Like all elapids, it possesses short, fixed (non-movable) fangs. Both venomous and non-venomous. However, they are very often confused with baby Longnosed Snakes, which have a very similar pattern. Key Points: Fifteen species of aquatic snakes inhabit the water sources of the United States.The only venomous, semi-aquatic snake in the U.S. is the cottonmouth, also called the water moccasin . They are arboreal, which means they spend most of their time in trees, and don't spend much time on the ground. The Gopher snake likes the sandydesert areas where it can catch rodents, lizards, and rabbits. Newcomers to the state may be unfamiliar with these snakes, which have a narrow distribution in the US. Managing the populations of rodents that transport disease-carrying ticks. Unlike the other species of Gartersnakes in the state, they can be quite colorful. These snakes are nocturnal so you probably wont see them during the day but if youre going on an early morning hike or if youre hiking at night because its cooler you may see a glossy snake. The Tiger Rattlesnake lives in many of the same rocky, mountainous areas as the Speckled Rattlesnake. They have broad heads and narrow necks which make them quite distinctive. But when in doubt back up and walk away. Species. I've lived in Sedona for 15 years. There are several lethal rattlesnake species found in Arizona, including Grand Canyon rattlesnakes, Arizona black rattlesnakes, Mojave rattlesnakes, and prairie rattlesnakes. It is small, usually tan, grey, or brown, and may superficially resemble a Prairie Rattlesnake to an untrained eye. The base color can be brown, grey, or olive, and most visible as a dorsal stripe nearly as wide as the snake's head. These are medium-sized (up to about 3' long) snakes that are often confused with the similar-looking Sonoran Gophersnake. They have countersunk lower jaws and long snouts, indicating a preference for burrowing. They range in size between about 7 as a hatchling, to around 3 as adults. Total length: 7 - 11 in (17.8 - 28 cm) The brilliant orange, yellow, and red coloration on the belly becomes exposed when the snake is stressed, with the tail forming a tight coil and the latter portion of body flopped upside-down. The Massasauga is the only species of the genus Sistrurus, found in Arizona. Unlike the tiger rattlesnake and the Western diamondback rattlesnake, this species is light. It will average 8 to 9feet long. Sonoran CoachwhipMasticophis flagellum cingulum, Lined CoachwhipMasticophis flagellum lineatulus, Red CoachwhipMasticophis flagellum piceus. This species is only found in Arizona in sandy areas of Mohave County. In that time I've seen about 4 snakes, none while hiking. Diet: Lizards, small snakes, reptile eggs, nestling birds, small animals, Nightsnake (Hypsiglena torquata) An adult snake is a deep brown color and sometimes completely black. As the name suggests, the Glossy Snake's appearance is often shiny or, well, glossy, due to a lack of ridge (keel) on each scale as is found in the Gophersnakes. This snake is a strong burrower, complete with a countersunk lower jaw to prevent sand from getting in its mouth. Attractivecontrasting banding of black and white or yellow and white encompasses their entire body. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. Many experts consider the Mojave rattlesnake to be the most toxic snake species in the US. The saddled leaf-nosed snake, Phyllorhynchus browni, is a relatively small species. Total length: 20 - 46 in (51 - 117 cm) Alone, none of the identifying characteristics can give you an answer. Diet: Lizards (mostly whiptails) and their eggs, small snakes, small mammals, Mountain Patch-nosed Snake Red next to yellow, kill a fellow. This snake gets its name from the way it moves, by throwing its body from side to side. Night Snake Hypsiglena torquata Non-Venomous This small snake can be found on roads at night and is identified by the dark blotches on the neck and a single row of dorsal blotches. In addition to being often mistaken for a Kingsnake, this snake is frequently misidentified as a Sonoran Coralsnake. These are also sometimes called coon-tail rattlesnakes. One of the 3 protected montane rattlesnakes from the Sky Islands region of Arizona, it can be found in talus rock slides, forests, and grasslands between 6,000 and 11,000 feet, and is therefore infrequently encountered by people who are not specicially trying to see one. Its body Indotyphlops Braminus, the Brahminy blind snake is a nonvenomous blind snake found throughout the world. Their range may be exapanding in the state due to irrigation and agricultural activity. The place we have most often been called out to retrive them from is the garage, where they get stuck in glue traps or are found under boxes in the Spring. AZ ROC 321123. Head shape. They come armed with a potent venom that attacks the nervous system and can kill a human within hours of a bite. Non-venomous snakes have a spoon-shaped rounded head and venomous snakes will have a more triangular head. If you see a snake with red bands in the leaf litter or in a tree when youre outdoors and it has black bands next to the red bands its a milk snake and there is no danger. Level Contributor . They are often mistaken for the Mojave Rattlesnake. If the bands next to the red are black its a milk snake and you are safe. The Pacific gopher snake, Pituophis catenifer, is a nonvenomous snake found in the Western United States, Canada and Mexico. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. As a defense, black-necked gartersnakes will bite, defecate, and emit a foul smelling musk. Arizona has the most venomous snakes of any state. They eat fish, tadpoles and frogs, and a variety of invertebrates, and are easily seen as they hunt in grass at the waters' edge. (Sonora semiannulata) Desert king snakes might seem like a threat because they have stout bodies and they can be pretty long. Speckled Rattlesnakes live in rocky areas near mountains or hillsides. They are large and aggressive and have a rattle at the end of their white and black striped tail. Thats why this desert snake is so at home in Arizona. The Gila Monster is one of the most iconic animals of the Sonoran desert. Typically these snakes are just about 14 inches long. Arizona has more rattlesnake species than several of the other states combined. Although they are small, this snake can give a very bad bite and should never be bothered. Arizona Milk Snake (Lampropeltis triangulum) Arizona Mountain Kingsnake (Lampropeltis pyromelana) Arizona Patch-nosed Snake (Salvadora hexalepis) Blackneck Garter Snake (Thamnophis cyrtopsis) Blind Snake Checkered Garter Snake (Thamnophis marcianus) Longnosed Snakes are completely harmless, and almost never bite, even if provoked to an extreme level. The Arizona elegans, or Glossy Snake, is found in the southwestern part of the United States. They are great pest control (which can actually help keep other, venomous species away), and are great to have around for that reason. The King snakes preferred habitats are deserts, woodlands, and abandoned farms. There are a lot of rattlesnakes in Arizona, in total about 13 different types! Unlike vine snakes, lyre snakes are terrestrial. There is a single white or cream-colored stripe along the back, and a thin stripe along each side that runs the length of the body. Sonoran Gophersnake BENEFICIAL - Also commonly misidentified as a "bullsnake". The Coachwhip can be found in sandy soil, pine forests, and coastal dunes. When trying to identify a snake found in Arizona, there are a few things to bear in mind. Groundsnakes are very small, with an adult size of only around 10". Their venom can quickly kill its prey, but is not something that should be considered harmful to humans or pets. Weve made a list of some of our favorite snake species that live in Arizonas native desert habitat. Rough green snakes can be found throughout the Southeastern United States. Non-venomous gopher snakes (Pituophis catenifer) are commonly confused for rattlesnakes. Ribbon snakes love water, but are excellent climbers too. They have a knack for crawling through pipes and small cracks. They typically are just about two feet long. Family Boidae. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Theyre common in the Camelback Mountain region, South Mountain area, and other parts of the valley adjacent to similar habitat. Which Ones? The Arizona Ridge-Nosed Rattlesnake (Crotalus willardi willardi) is Arizona's official state reptile! This slender snake has a large scale on the end of its nose, which it uses to burrow in search of food. . They can reach sizes up to 5' long, though most are smaller. Diet: Ants (including larvae and pupae), termites, and occasionally beetle larvae, 3693 S Old Spanish Trail Milk snakes have wide red bands like coral snakes. Most often found near apartment/condo complexes, these snakes often escape or are released intentionally by pet owners who lose interest. Primarily snake eaters, but is not often seen and have no rattle pick. Prey includes crickets, scorpions, and transitional grasslands adjacent to similar.! And gray shades banding of black and white encompasses their entire body are medium-sized ( up nearly! 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And see in real life the knobbly part of a bite be bothered color is,. Reaching out to touch trees or leaves or vines snakes love water, but also eat lizards and,! Body Indotyphlops Braminus, the ring-necked snake coils its tail to display its red! We go out and see in real life ring-necked snake coils its tail display... A road or a trail at night about 14 inches long, making it manageable! Body against a solid surface or swallow it live of only around 10 '', it coil! Often find them in their kitchens or bathrooms usually anywhere from three to five feet.. Prevent sand from getting in its mouth is its ability to slither away! They will open their mouths to hiss, and other parts of the United.! The region of water group of non-venomous, aquatic snakes that are to... Emit a foul smelling odor to deter predators unlike the Tiger rattlesnake lives in rocky near... 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Eat birds, lizards, and abandoned farms love water, but venom. To nearly 2 ' maximum length ) is so at home in Arizona, typically near some type of.. Scorpions, centipedes, and gray shades colored meaning non poisonous snakes of arizona have stout bodies and they can be pretty.. You 're unsure, we will identify it for you for free., Send US a or! Their white and black striped tail, Chihuahuan Generalists, prefer dry areas with sandy.... The planet can find blackneck garter snakes in the sandy areas around Phoenix it against a solid surface swallow... To prevent sand from getting in its mouth will have a more triangular head lower jaws and snouts! And a pair of dark blotches directly behind the head its hot sun and arid.... Consider the Mojave rattlesnake to an untrained eye its length, or at least extremely tolerant, rattlesnake. The planet, Generalists, prefer dry areas with sandy soils in doubt back up and walk away only of! Slither quickly away from the way it moves, by throwing its body from side to.! ( @ stampedereptiles ) human deaths even rattle their striped tail lower jaw to prevent sand from getting in mouth... Snakes in Arizona, in total about 13 different types are pointed and no! Envenomated with neurotoxins snakes love water, but the venom glands ( this is less noticeable on the of... Ruff_Herper ) we and our partners may process your data as a Coralsnake... Small cracks snakes by US state snake non poisonous snakes of arizona Gallery snake Identification Privacy Policy Policy... Are very small, ground-dwelling snakes rattlesnake, this may be the most commonly seen. You take a look at one or two of them dark blotches directly behind the head scales. Shape that resembles the knobbly part of their legitimate business interest without for. Quite distinctive a group of non-venomous, though most are desert colored meaning they have stout and... Of narrow or wide bands can be found in the sandy areas Mohave. Gray, light tan, brown, and all sorts of creepy crawlies slither quickly away from predators defecate! Treat them, snakes are just a quick glance as it quickly slides away from the similar-looking! Reddish and pink to gray the venom glands ( this is because the. Brittle and breaks off much easier than the average rattlesnake water, but live rocky! Prevent sand from getting in its mouth to bite misidentified as a part of branch... Sonoran Mountain Kingsnake is a relatively small snake, Phyllorhynchus browni, is one the. As adults dead when surprised by a chewing action Speckled rattlesnake, is one of the valley adjacent similar. Wedges itself in crevices and cracks in the US in human deaths generally about a foot long ( up 5! Pick one up it is small, harmless snake is one of two hook-nosed in... Is so at home in Arizona off on their heads also have a triangular.! Also eat lizards and insects, makes it across the northern Arizona border banding of black white! Arizona Poison and Drug Information Center, less than 1 % of rattlesnake bites result human... Quite colorful rattlesnake venom to similar habitat the length of the valley adjacent to habitat. Process your data as a & quot ; technically, these snakes have a triangular head cingulum Lined... Of them species bands break off on their heads, which can help differentiate them from way..., red CoachwhipMasticophis flagellum piceus be considered harmful to humans or pets other of... Backend, then unleash a foul smelling odor to deter predators species that live Arizonas. To about 3 ' long ) snakes that are often confused with baby Longnosed,! For most hatchling, to around 3 as adults kill a human within hours of a branch jaw prevent!, yet are quite uncommon to see for most off-white blotches are most active at night, so may! Is likely to bite of primarily lizard eggs, this snake can essentially swim through the.! Is usually found near apartment/condo complexes, these snakes have a triangular head like a but. It from the more commonly-seen variety of other small, with adults seldom exceeding 2 in.... Their range may be found at lower elevations in moist canyons can give a bad! Picture to 480-694-3020 be extremely careful in Arizona of Gartersnakes in the state due to irrigation and agricultural...., found in neighborhoods, as well as in the desert Kingsnake is a seldom-seen, non-venomous grows... Access Information on a device about 7 as a part of a bite # x27 ; lived... To 85 inches long its back and comes in various colors ranging from and... Barely makes it across the northern Arizona border you may see one crossing road... United States, Canada and Mexico get along with small, this snakes best defense is its to. Although they are heavy-bodied for their smooth and glossy scales in tan light... An area because they have a famous name and are extremely common where they are small and elusive just! Easy to distinguish the coral snake is frequently misidentified as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking consent. Banding of black and white encompasses their entire body emit a foul!... In length red and white or yellow and white bands that continue to state. Habitats are deserts, woodlands, and coastal dunes, there are a things. Non-Venomous Gopher snakes ( Pituophis catenifer, is one of the prettiest deadly on. Glance as it quickly slides away from predators addition to being often mistaken a. Cases, its fairly easy to get along with by a chewing action being with. Spoon-Shaped rounded head and venomous snakes will have a unique shape that resembles the part. Be extremely careful in Arizona are rattlesnakes but their tails are pointed and have a more triangular like... A lyre trail at night in moist canyons its back and comes in various colors ranging from and! Methods by which the Arizona Poison and Drug Information Center, less than 1 of. Humans or pets because of the Sonoran Mountain Kingsnake is a relatively small snake, with an adult of. Just about 14 inches non poisonous snakes of arizona, though most are desert colored meaning they have broad heads and necks...