British Columbia
Snakes in Central Okanagan
6 species have been documented here, 1 of them venomous.
Venomous snakes in Central Okanagan
Full guide & what to do if bitten →
Western RattlesnakeCrotalus oreganusVenomousHeavy body, broad triangular head, vertical (cat-like) pupils, and a segmented keratin rattle at the tail tip.
Every snake recorded in Central Okanagan

Western Terrestrial Garter Snake
Thamnophis elegans
Harmless

Common Garter Snake
Thamnophis sirtalis
Harmless

Northern Rubber Boa
Charina bottae
Harmless

Gopher Snake
Pituophis catenifer
Harmless

North American Racer
Coluber constrictor
Harmless

Western Rattlesnake
Crotalus oreganus
Venomous
Compiled from verified GBIF & iNaturalist observations. Informational only.
Snakes in Central Okanagan: FAQ
- Are there venomous snakes in Central Okanagan, British Columbia?
- Yes. 1 venomous snake species has verified records in Central Okanagan, British Columbia, including Western Rattlesnake. Most snakes in Central Okanagan, British Columbia, however, are harmless.
- How many snake species live in Central Okanagan, British Columbia?
- 6 snake species have verified records in Central Okanagan, British Columbia, of which 1 is venomous.
- What is the most commonly seen snake in Central Okanagan, British Columbia?
- The Western Terrestrial Garter Snake is the most frequently reported snake in Central Okanagan, British Columbia, based on verified wildlife observations.
- What should I do if I see a venomous snake in Central Okanagan, British Columbia?
- Keep your distance and do not try to catch or kill it. Most bites happen when people handle or corner a snake. If someone is bitten, contact local emergency services or poison control immediately.