British Columbia
Snakes in Okanagan-Similkameen
9 species have been documented here, 1 of them venomous.
Venomous snakes in Okanagan-Similkameen
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 Okanagan-Similkameen
Common Garter Snake
Thamnophis sirtalis
Harmless
Western Terrestrial Garter Snake
Thamnophis elegans
Harmless
Gopher Snake
Pituophis catenifer
Harmless
Western Rattlesnake
Crotalus oreganus
Venomous
North American Racer
Coluber constrictor
Harmless
Northern Rubber Boa
Charina bottae
Harmless
Northwestern Garter Snake
Thamnophis ordinoides
Harmless
Desert Nightsnake
Hypsiglena chlorophaea
Harmless
Pine Snake
Pituophis melanoleucus
Harmless
Compiled from verified GBIF & iNaturalist observations. Informational only.
Snakes in Okanagan-Similkameen: FAQ
- Are there venomous snakes in Okanagan-Similkameen, British Columbia?
- Yes. 1 venomous snake species has verified records in Okanagan-Similkameen, British Columbia, including Western Rattlesnake. Most snakes in Okanagan-Similkameen, British Columbia, however, are harmless.
- How many snake species live in Okanagan-Similkameen, British Columbia?
- 9 snake species have verified records in Okanagan-Similkameen, British Columbia, of which 1 is venomous.
- What is the most commonly seen snake in Okanagan-Similkameen, British Columbia?
- The Common Garter Snake is the most frequently reported snake in Okanagan-Similkameen, British Columbia, based on verified wildlife observations.
- What should I do if I see a venomous snake in Okanagan-Similkameen, 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.