Here in Indiana, we know of 33 snake species that call the Hoosier state home. From harmless egg-laying snakes like the Western Foxsnake and the Gray Ratsnake, to typical backyard snakes like the common Garter snake, most species are quite innocuous. However, of the 33 known species of harmless snake in Indiana, there are 4 that are in fact, venomous. If you live near woods, forests, or bodies of water, or simply take pleasure in open-air activities like hiking, fishing, and camping, you have a higher chance at crossing paths with an Indiana snake while enjoying the great outdoors!
Continue reading to learn which Indiana snakes are dangerous, and what to do to protect your property from nuisance snakes.
Being able to spot a poisonous snake takes knowledge and a little practice. Some of the most unassuming snakes are the most dangerous, while some exotic-looking ones are entirely harmless. This means you cannot easily gauge a snake’s level of danger based on appearance alone unless you have the right foreknowledge. Read our article, “How Can You Tell if a Snake is Poisonous?” to learn how to identify a dangerous snake from a harmless one.
Commonly referred to as “Pit Vipers”, and all belonging to the scientific family “Crotalidae”, here are the 4 venomous snake species native to Indiana:
🐍 Copperhead Snake (Agkistrodon contortrix)
Copperhead snakes are typically only found in the Southern Hills and Lowlands region of the state. Although venomous, Copperhead snakes tend to only bite out of defense, not for predatory reasons. So long as you steer clear, they shouldn’t come after you.
🐍 Cottonmouth (Agkistrodon piscivorus)
Cottonmouth snakes are only found in one small area in the southwestern regions of the state. They tend to live near slow-moving bodies of water, like lakes, streams, and marshes. As a state endangered species, you won’t likely ever come across one.
🐍 Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake (Sistrurus catenatus)
Also known as Black Massasauga, Black Rattler, Black Snapper, the Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake is another rate species, as it is a Federally Threatened species. It is primarily found in the Northern regions of Indiana.
🐍 Timber Rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus)
Also known as the Timber Rattlesnake, Canebrake Rattlesnake or Banded Rattlesnake, the Timber Rattlesnake is another state-endangered snake species that you will not easily come across. They are primarily found in the South central regions of Indiana.
Identifying Poisonous Snake Species
Not only is it wise to learn how to recognize these venomous snake species in Indiana, as well as, how to protect your property from all snakes this coming spring and summer. You see, venomous snakes pose several safety and health risks, but common, harmless snakes can be quite the nuisance to your property. Read our blog, “How to Get Rid of Lawn Snakes” to learn what you can do to protect your lawn and gardens from slithering, smelly, and destructive snakes.
Got a Nuisance Snake Problem?
Call Budget Animal Removal at 317-875-3099 for fast and affordable snake removal and control in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our DNR licensed wildlife removal specialists offer wild animal abatement services, cleanup and minor restorations for animal damages, 24 hour emergency service, free estimates, and free advice. We work with all native wildlife, including snakes, raccoons, bats, squirrels, and more! Request a free estimate, today.
