Snakes in Ohio: A Guide to Identification and Safety

Ohio is home to a diverse range of snake species, both venomous and non-venomous. For many, encountering a snake can be an alarming experience. However, most snakes in Ohio are harmless and an important part of the local ecosystem. With some basic knowledge about snake identification and safety, Ohioans can coexist peacefully with these intriguing reptiles.

Overview of Snakes in Ohio

There are approximately 27 snake species that are native to Ohio This includes 3 venomous species – the copperhead, timber rattlesnake, and massasauga rattlesnake. The other 24 species are non-venomous, including common snakes like the garter snake, water snake, milk snake, and rat snake

The most frequently encountered snakes in Ohio are

• Garter Snake – found throughout Ohio in moist areas. Has stripes and reaches up to 4 feet long. Non-venomous.

• Water Snake – found near water bodies throughout Ohio. Plain brown or black. Aggressive but non-venomous.

• Milk Snake – found across Ohio. Distinct red/black/white bands. Non-venomous.

• Rat Snake – found across Ohio. Can reach up to 8 feet long. Black or gray with spots. Non-venomous.

• Ring-necked Snake – found across Ohio except the northwest. Small (up to 15 inches) with ring around neck. Non-venomous.

• Racer – found across Ohio. Slender black snake that can move very fast. Non-venomous.

The garter snake is the state reptile of Ohio and can be found easily in backyards and gardens. Water snakes prefer wetlands and areas around lakes and rivers. Rat snakes help control rodent populations while milk snakes feed on mice and other small animals. Overall, Ohio’s non-venomous snakes are an asset to local ecosystems.

Identifying Venomous Snakes in Ohio

Ohio’s 3 venomous snake species can be identified by looking for key characteristics:

Copperhead

• Found in southeast Ohio.
• Colors range from coppery-brown to tan with dark brown blotches.
• Head is coppery-orange with black bands on the sides.
• Vertical slit-shaped pupils.
• Reaches 18-40 inches long.

Timber Rattlesnake

• Found in southern Ohio.
• Yellow/brown with dark chevron bands. Black head.
• Makes distinct rattling sound with tail.
• Vertical slit-shaped pupils.
• Reaches up to 74 inches long.

Massasauga

• Found across Ohio except the southeast.
• Light brown/gray with brown blotches.
• Small rattle on end of tail.
• Vertical slit-shaped pupils.
• Reaches up to 30 inches long.

Key identifying features of venomous snakes include vertical slit-shaped pupils, triangular heads, bodies with blotches or bands, and rattles on the tail (on rattlesnakes). Non-venomous snakes have round pupils and lack rattles.

Snake Safety Tips

Most encounters with snakes in Ohio are harmless. But proper precautions should be taken, especially around venomous species:

• Leave snakes alone – don’t try to touch or capture them.
• Wear sturdy shoes and long pants when hiking.
• Watch where you step and avoid tall grass or debris piles where snakes may hide.
• Keep pets on a leash when outdoors.
• Call animal control to remove venomous snakes from populated areas.
• If bitten by a venomous snake, remain calm and seek immediate medical attention.

Teaching children to respect snakes, not fear them, can help the next generation safely coexist with these important reptiles. With proper identification skills and sensible precautions, Ohioans can feel confident sharing the outdoors with snakes.