California
Snakes in Kern County
34 species have been documented here, 6 of them venomous.
Venomous snakes in Kern County
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.
SidewinderCrotalus cerastesVenomousHeavy body, broad triangular head, vertical (cat-like) pupils, and a segmented keratin rattle at the tail tip.
Mojave RattlesnakeCrotalus scutulatusVenomousHeavy body, broad triangular head, vertical (cat-like) pupils, and a segmented keratin rattle at the tail tip.
Prairie RattlesnakeCrotalus viridisVenomousHeavy body, broad triangular head, vertical (cat-like) pupils, and a segmented keratin rattle at the tail tip.
Panamint RattlesnakeCrotalus stephensiVenomousHeavy body, broad triangular head, vertical (cat-like) pupils, and a segmented keratin rattle at the tail tip.
Speckled RattlesnakeCrotalus mitchelliiVenomousHeavy body, broad triangular head, vertical (cat-like) pupils, and a segmented keratin rattle at the tail tip.
Every snake recorded in Kern County
Compiled from verified GBIF & iNaturalist observations. Informational only.
Snakes in Kern County: FAQ
- Are there venomous snakes in Kern County, California?
- Yes. 6 venomous snake species have verified records in Kern County, California, including Western Rattlesnake, Sidewinder, Mojave Rattlesnake, Prairie Rattlesnake. Most snakes in Kern County, California, however, are harmless.
- How many snake species live in Kern County, California?
- 30+ snake species have verified records in Kern County, California, of which 6 are venomous.
- What is the most commonly seen snake in Kern County, California?
- The Gopher Snake is the most frequently reported snake in Kern County, California, based on verified wildlife observations.
- What should I do if I see a venomous snake in Kern County, California?
- 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.