Snakes in Minnesota

Here are common snakes found in Minnesota, including 1 venomous species to watch for. Tap any snake for a full identification profile.

Identify a snake in Minnesota Snake bite first aid

Caution

Venomous snakes in Minnesota

Upward view of towering redwood trees in a lush forest, capturing nature's grandeur.

Venomous

Timber Rattlesnake

Crotalus horridus

A large forest rattlesnake of the eastern US with a calm temperament but highly potent venom. Often confused with the harmless Eastern Ratsnake.

Danger 4/5

Beneficial

Harmless snakes in Minnesota

Detailed image of a Timber Rattlesnake with focus on its textures and patterns.

Mildly venomous

Eastern Hognose Snake

Heterodon platirhinos

A harmless toad-eater famous for its theatrics — it hisses, flattens its neck like a cobra, then flips over and plays dead. Rear-fanged with toxin that affects only amphibians.

Danger 1/5

A striking milk snake with vibrant patterns rests on a branch in a natural setting.

Non-venomous

Eastern Milk Snake

Lampropeltis triangulum

A harmless constrictor with bold blotches, often killed because it is mistaken for a copperhead or coral snake. A beneficial rodent and snake predator.

Danger 0/5

Identifying snakes in Minnesota

Knowing your location is one of the most powerful tools in snake identification. Many snakes look similar, but the species actually present in Minnesota narrows the possibilities dramatically. When you use our snake identifier, factor in your state to boost confidence — and if you ever spot a snake you can't identify, treat it as potentially dangerous and keep your distance.