The United States is home to several snake species, many of which are famous worldwide. If you’re big on camping or hiking, it’s good to know where snakes populate for a safer outdoor experience. So which American state has the most snakes?
Texas is the state with the most snakes, home to 76 species of snake. Of that number, only 15% are venomous. Arizona, home to 52 species, has the second-largest snake population. Arizona is home to 13 venomous snakes.
This article will discuss the states with the largest snake populations. I will also describe what kinds of snakes you can find in these “snaky” regions.
Texas Has the Most Snakes
Texas is home to the highest number of snake species in the U.S., with 76 different ones. West, South, and Central Texas are excellent locations to go herping if you’re intrigued by snakes and want to witness them up close.
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has records of four venomous breeds native to the state, and they are:
- Coral snakes
- Copperheads
- Cottonmouths
- Rattlesnakes
Central Texas is a hotspot for venomous species, partly due to the area having the highest concentration of snakes. However, you can still find venomous snakes in small numbers across the state.
While things seem relatively safe, there are numerous snake bite incidents in Texas. Most of these incidences are from the copperhead, and they are also the perpetrator of most snake bites in the U.S. However, the copperhead’s venom isn’t typically fatal, and most victims survive the encounter.
If you’re looking for snakes in the Lone Star State, taking a trained professional with you while handling or watching them is best.
Arizona: The Snake State
Most people assume Arizona has the most snakes in the country because many fatal snake bites occur in this region. Arizona is home to fifty-two species, most notably the rattlesnake!
According to the Arizona Game and Fish Department, Arizona is home to 13 out of the 36 currently identified rattlesnake species, more than any other state in America. Many of these rattlesnake species are venomous, and most live in Phoenix.
Arizona is known for its wide open spaces and natural settings, making the environment perfect for snakes. It can be challenging to avoid snakes if you’re planning a camping trip here.
Nevada Has a Few Snakes Too
Nevada. just like Arizona, is home to fifty-two snake species. Nevada also has a significant number of venomous snakes, the difference being that the snakes in Nevada aren’t as deadly as those in Arizona.
Nevada is also home to many rattlesnakes—some deadly and some harmless.
States Without Snakes
Now that you know which states have the most snakes in the U.S., there are plenty of other states with different snake species, most of which are non-venomous or harmless. However, two states in the U.S. are known for being completely snake-free.
- Hawaii: This state does not have native snakes, primarily due to its isolated island geography. Strict regional laws ensure the absence of snakes and prohibit people from owning these reptiles in any capacity.
- Alaska: Alaska is too cold for snakes to survive, and hence another U.S. state that’s snake-free. The temperature in Alaska is so cold you won’t find most reptiles here.
Final Thoughts
Most U.S. states have at least 1-10 species of snakes, typically non-venomous ones. However, the states known for their snake population and the presence of many venomous species are:
- Texas
- Arizona
- Nevada
Be sure to take precautions when spending time at offbeat locations in these states.