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Snakes in Pennsylvania

Here are common snakes found in Pennsylvania, including 2 venomous species to watch for. Tap any snake for a full identification profile.

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Caution

Venomous snakes in Pennsylvania

A snake peeks out from a vibrant green pot in an outdoor setting.
Venomous

Copperhead

Agkistrodon contortrix

Responsible for more venomous snakebites than any other US species, but its bite is rarely fatal. Excellent camouflage in leaf litter leads to surprise encounters.

Danger 3/5
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 Pennsylvania

Detailed close-up shot of a central ratsnake slithering through grass, highlighting its features.
Non-venomous

Eastern Ratsnake

Pantherophis alleghaniensis

A large, harmless constrictor and one of the best natural rodent controllers around homes and farms. Juveniles are gray and blotched, leading to copperhead confusion.

Danger 0/5
Detailed close-up photo of a snake partially submerged in water, surrounded by lush green algae.
Non-venomous

Northern Watersnake

Nerodia sipedon

A harmless aquatic snake constantly killed out of fear that it is a cottonmouth. It bites readily when grabbed but has no venom.

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
A detailed view of a ring-necked snake amid forest floor debris, showcasing its unique coloration.
Mildly venomous

Ring-necked Snake

Diadophis punctatus

A tiny, secretive snake with a bright neck ring and a vivid orange-yellow belly it curls to flash when threatened. Harmless to people despite mild rear-fanged saliva.

Danger 0/5
A detailed close-up of a brown snake amidst lush green leaves in Nigeria.
Non-venomous

DeKay's Brownsnake

Storeria dekayi

A tiny, gentle brown snake that thrives in cities and backyards. Frequently found under stepping stones and flowerpots, and completely harmless.

Danger 0/5

Identifying snakes in Pennsylvania

Knowing your location is one of the most powerful tools in snake identification. Many snakes look similar, but the species actually present in Pennsylvania 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.