Snakes of Oklahoma

Common Snakes

• As with many plains states, the most commonly encountered snakes in much of Oklahoma are the garter snake, bullsnake and hog-nosed snake. The southeastern portion of the state is also home to the kingsnake, well-known as a predator of rattlesnakes. Less commonly seen is the tiny blind snake, an eyeless subterranean species that resembles an earthworm. Despite their low profile, blind snakes are common across much of the state.

Aquatic Snakes

• While Oklahoma is a relatively dry state, the central and southeastern portions are dotted with rivers, lakes and ponds that make an attractive home for aquatic or semiaquatic snakes. The cottonmouth, which is widespread throughout the southeast, is the only primarily aquatic snake that is a danger to humans. However, copperheads are also known to spend a great deal of time in the water. Mudsnakes, known for the unusual way they use their tail to jab and prod prey into a striking position, are common aquatic snakes in the wet terrain of the southeast.

Rattlesnakes

• Four species of rattlesnake constitute the bulk of the state's venomous snake population. The prairie rattlesnake and western diamondback are common in the panhandle and western plains, while the timber rattlesnake and western pygmy rattlesnake inhabit forested portions of the northeast. Although rattlesnakes are venomous enough to pose a real threat to humans, they have the advantage of being highly visible. Their signature rattle is a warning to non-prey animals, and they would prefer to scare off a human rather than strike. However, they will strike if they are surprised, harassed or stepped on.

Brown Tree Snake

• In addition to the native snakes, Oklahoma is host to one invasive species: the Australian brown tree snake. The brown tree snake is a common invasive pest throughout the Pacific Rim and is capable of causing major damage to local ecosystems. It is mildly venomous and a bite is capable of sending a person to the hospital, but its main human impact in Oklahoma is linked to its tree-climbing habits. Brown tree snakes often climb utility poles, electrocuting themselves on power lines and causing power outages.