Snakes are a natural part of many ecosystems, and depending on where you live, you might encounter them in your backyard. While some people fear snakes, most species are harmless and even beneficial, helping control rodent and insect populations. Some snakes, however, can be venomous and should be treated with caution. Let’s see 20 common backyard snake species, both non-venomous and venomous, that you might come across.

1. Garter Snake

One of the most common backyard snakes, the garter snake, is recognized by its slender body and three longitudinal stripes, usually yellow, white, or green. Found throughout North America, it thrives in gardens, grassy fields, and near water sources. Garter snakes are harmless and help control insect and rodent populations. They are active during the day and can be seen basking in the sun or slithering through vegetation. If startled, they may release a mild musk as a defense mechanism.

2. Rat Snake

Rat snakes are large, non-venomous constrictors that feed primarily on rodents and birds. They are often found near barns, woodpiles, and trees, making them a common sight in rural backyards. Their coloration varies by species, ranging from black to yellow with patterns resembling rattlesnakes. Though they may freeze or vibrate their tails when threatened, they are completely harmless. Excellent climbers, they often raid bird nests and can be seen slithering up trees in search of food.

3. Ring-necked Snake

This small, secretive snake is named for the bright orange or yellow ring around its neck. Typically found under logs, rocks, or leaf litter, it prefers moist environments such as wooded areas and gardens. Ring-necked snakes are nocturnal and feed on earthworms, slugs, and small amphibians. When threatened, they curl their tail to display a bright underside as a warning signal. Despite their shy nature, they are harmless and beneficial to the ecosystem by helping control small invertebrate populations.

4. Eastern Hognose Snake

Easily identified by its upturned snout, the Eastern Hognose snake is famous for its dramatic defensive displays. When threatened, it flattens its head, hisses, and may even play dead by rolling onto its back. These snakes are harmless and primarily feed on amphibians, particularly toads. Found in sandy or loose soil areas, they use their snout to burrow. Their varied coloration often causes them to be mistaken for venomous species, but they pose no threat to humans.

5. Black Racer

The Black Racer is a fast-moving, slender snake commonly found in open fields, forests, and suburban backyards. Jet black with a white chin, it is often mistaken for other black snake species. It is an active hunter, preying on rodents, frogs, and other small animals. When threatened, Black Racers prefer to flee but may strike if cornered. Despite their aggressive behavior when handled, they are non-venomous and help control pest populations, making them beneficial to the environment.

6. Corn Snake 

Corn snakes are beautifully patterned with orange or reddish-brown blotches on a lighter background. They are often mistaken for copperheads but are non-venomous and docile. Commonly found in barns, forests, and overgrown fields, they are excellent climbers and often enter attics or sheds in search of rodents. Their calm demeanor makes them popular pets, but in the wild, they play an important role in controlling small mammal populations. They kill their prey through constriction.

7. Northern Water Snake

Often found near ponds, lakes, and rivers, the Northern Water Snake is commonly mistaken for venomous cottonmouths. It has a thick body with dark brown or reddish bands that fade with age. Though non-venomous, it can be aggressive if handled and will bite repeatedly. These snakes feed on fish, frogs, and small aquatic creatures. They are excellent swimmers and are often seen basking on rocks or logs near water. Their presence is a sign of a thriving aquatic ecosystem.

8. Smooth Green Snake 

This striking bright green snake is small, slender, and perfectly camouflaged in grassy areas. It is non-venomous and preys on insects, making it beneficial for gardens. Unlike most snakes, Smooth Green Snakes are gentle and rarely bite. They prefer moist habitats, such as meadows and marsh edges. They are active during the day and are often seen moving through vegetation in search of food. Their delicate nature makes them one of the least threatening backyard snakes.

9. Dekay’s Brown Snake

A small, unassuming snake, Dekay’s Brown Snake is often found hiding under logs, rocks, or garden debris. Light brown or gray with dark spots, it blends well with the ground. It primarily feeds on slugs, snails, and insects, making it a gardener’s friend. These snakes are harmless and rarely seen due to their secretive nature. When in danger, they curl up and stay still. Found in urban and suburban environments, they adapt well to human presence.

10. Western Ribbon Snake

Closely related to garter snakes, the Western Ribbon Snake is long and slender with distinct yellow or white stripes running down its body. Found near water sources, it feeds on amphibians, fish, and small invertebrates. Unlike garter snakes, it is more aquatic and quick to retreat when approached. Its non-venomous nature and role in controlling pest populations make it beneficial to the environment. It is active during the day and often basks in the sun on rocks or logs.

11. Copperhead

The Copperhead is one of the most commonly encountered venomous snakes in North America. Recognized by its distinctive hourglass-shaped markings on a tan or brown background, this snake thrives in forests, rocky hillsides, and suburban areas. It relies on camouflage to avoid detection and will remain motionless when approached. Though its venom is not usually fatal to humans, a bite can cause significant pain and swelling. Copperheads are ambush predators that feed primarily on rodents, frogs, and insects.

12. Cottonmouth

Also known as the Water Moccasin, the Cottonmouth is a semi-aquatic venomous snake found in the southeastern United States.It is named for the white inside of its mouth, which it shows when feeling threatened. Often mistaken for non-venomous water snakes, the Cottonmouth has a thick, dark body with a broad head. It is an opportunistic feeder, consuming fish, amphibians, and small mammals. While generally not aggressive, it will stand its ground if provoked. Bites can be serious and require medical attention.

13. Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake

The Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake is the largest rattlesnake species in North America, growing up to eight feet long. It is easily recognized by the dark diamond-shaped markings along its back. Found in the southeastern United States, it inhabits pine forests, sandy woodlands, and grasslands. This snake relies on its rattling tail as a warning before striking. Its venom is highly potent, capable of causing severe tissue damage and systemic effects. Though it avoids human interaction, it will defend itself if threatened.

14. Western Diamondback Rattlesnake

A close relative of the Eastern Diamondback, the Western Diamondback Rattlesnake is widespread across the southwestern United States. It is characterized by alternating black-and-white bands near its tail and a series of diamond-shaped patterns along its body. Common in deserts, grasslands, and rocky regions, it is responsible for a significant number of snakebites each year. The Western Diamondback relies on its camouflage and rattling warning before resorting to a strike. Its venom is potent, causing pain, swelling, and potential systemic effects.

15. Timber Rattlesnake

Timber Rattlesnakes are large, venomous pit vipers found in forests and rocky outcrops across the eastern United States. They have a distinctive pattern of dark bands over a yellow, brown, or gray background. These snakes are generally docile but will rattle and strike if threatened. Their venom contains hemotoxins that can cause severe tissue damage. Their diet mainly consists of small mammals, birds, and amphibians. While encounters are rare, caution is advised when hiking or working in wooded areas.

16. Pygmy Rattlesnake

The Pygmy Rattlesnake is a small but venomous snake found in the southeastern United States. Unlike larger rattlesnakes, its rattle is barely audible, making it more difficult to detect. It has a gray, reddish, or brown body with dark blotches along its back. Preferring forests, marshes, and grassy areas, this snake feeds on lizards, frogs, and small rodents. Though its venom is not as potent as larger rattlesnake species, a bite can still cause pain and swelling. Caution should be taken when walking in its habitat.

17. Mojave Rattlesnake

Known for its highly toxic venom, the Mojave Rattlesnake is found in desert regions of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It has a greenish-brown or light gray body with dark diamond-shaped markings. Its venom contains both neurotoxins and hemotoxins, making it one of the most dangerous rattlesnakes in North America. This species is often encountered in arid environments, including sandy plains and rocky slopes. It is best to avoid any close interactions with this snake due to the potency of its venom.

18. Coral Snake

Recognized by its striking red, yellow, and black bands, the Coral Snake is often confused with the harmless Milk Snake. The key distinction is the order of the bands: in Coral Snakes, red touches yellow. Found in the southeastern United States, they prefer wooded areas and marshy regions. Coral Snakes are highly venomous, but bites are rare since they are reclusive and prefer to flee rather than strike. Their venom affects the nervous system, potentially leading to paralysis if untreated.

19. Sidewinder

The Sidewinder is a small desert rattlesnake known for its unique sideways movement, which helps it navigate loose, sandy terrain. Found in the southwestern United States, it has a light-colored, camouflaged body that blends with desert landscapes. It has distinctive horn-like scales above its eyes. Though its venom is not as potent as some other rattlesnakes, a bite can still cause pain and swelling. Sidewinders hunt lizards and small rodents, using their ambush tactics to capture prey.

20. Bushmaster

The Bushmaster is the largest venomous snake in the Americas, found in Central and South American rainforests. It has a reddish-brown or tan body with dark blotches, allowing it to blend into its environment. Despite its size, it is elusive and rarely encountered by humans. The Bushmaster’s venom contains hemotoxins that can cause severe pain and tissue damage. It relies on ambush hunting, preying on rodents and small mammals. While bites are rare, they can be dangerous and require immediate medical attention.

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