3 venomous snake species found in Ohio

OHIO (WJW) — Wildlife experts this past spring confirmed that a rarely-seen venomous snake was spotted in Ohio.

In honor of World Snake Day on Tuesday, here’s a closer look at other venomous species native to the Buckeye State.

According to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, there are three venomous snakes found in Ohio: the eastern copperhead, the Massasauga rattlesnake and the timber rattlesnake.

On the plus side for those who may not be fans of bumping into the slithering species, the three types of snakes are pretty uncommon — and virtually non-existent in Northeast Ohio.

If you do bump into them, experts say to remember they’re valuable to the ecosystem, as they hunt rodents and insects.

“If you find a snake, it’s present because it’s simply trying to locate food, water or shelter. If you can leave it alone, please do. If not, contact wildlife professionals for assistance,” Jamey Emmert with the Ohio Division of Wildlife said.

Wild snakes are protected under Ohio law. You cannot harm or collect them without special permits.

Eastern Copperhead

The eastern copperhead, ranging from 24 inches to 36 inches long, is predominately found in southeastern Ohio. Wildlife experts say they typically stay away from well-settled areas.

Copperheads are known to have bitten more people in the U.S. than any other venomous snake, experts say. However, the amount of venom copperheads inject isn’t normally enough to seriously hurt a healthy adult, making bites rarely fatal.

Wildlife experts say bites are very painful, comparable to a bee sting, and can cause a serious or life-threatening allergic reaction.

“When encountered, copperheads are usually content to lie motionless or retreat if given the chance. But if aroused, they will vibrate their tail rapidly and strike wildly,” according to the Ohio Division of Wildlife’s Reptiles of Ohio field guide.

The eastern copperhead is considered uncommon in Ohio.

Massasauga Rattlesnake

The Massasauga rattlesnake, ranging from 18 inches to 24 inches long, is scattered across the state and has been historically reported in 30 counties, including some in Northeast Ohio, but wildlife experts say they are rarely ever seen.

ODNR officials confirmed that one was spotted in Ohio in May as researchers and volunteers were taking part in an annual snake survey. In order to protect it from poachers, experts did not say where in Ohio it was found.

Also known as the “swamp rattler” or the “black snapper,” the Massasauga rattlesnake tends to reside in bogs, swamps and wet prairies, according to experts. They are normally gray or brownish-gray, but some can be completely black.

Wildlife experts say the snakes are “sluggish” and only try to bite if provoked. Their venom is highly toxic, but Massasauga rattlesnakes rarely inject large enough doses of it to kill a healthy adult.

The Massasauga rattlesnake is considered endangered.

Timber Rattlesnake

The timber rattlesnake, ranging between 36 inches and 60 inches, is considered the most dangerous snake in the northeastern U.S., the Division of Wildlife says. They typically reside in dry, wooded and hilly areas of southern Ohio.

Experts say timber rattlesnakes, which average about 40 inches in length, have two color phases.

“The yellow phase has a series of dark brown or black chevron-shaped crossbands on a ground color of brownish yellow and a yellow or brown head. The black phase has the crossbands
on a ground color of blackish brown and a black head,” according to the Reptiles of Ohio field guide.

The Division of Wildlife says these venomous snakes have a mild disposition and rarely try to attack unless threatened. They will normally try to stay coiled up or slither away if possible.

Timber rattlesnakes are considered endangered.

Learn more about snake species in the state at ODNR’s website.

Having issues with a nuisance snake in your home or property? ODNR breaks down some helpful tips here.

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