Are there venomous snakes in Sarasota County, Florida?

Yes. 4 venomous snake species have verified records in Sarasota County, Florida, including Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake, Pygmy Rattlesnake, Eastern Coralsnake, Northern Cottonmouth. Most snakes in Sarasota County, Florida, however, are harmless.

How many snake species live in Sarasota County, Florida?

20+ snake species have verified records in Sarasota County, Florida, of which 4 are venomous.

What is the most commonly seen snake in Sarasota County, Florida?

The North American Racer is the most frequently reported snake in Sarasota County, Florida, based on verified wildlife observations.

What should I do if I see a venomous snake in Sarasota County, Florida?

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.

Florida

Snakes in Sarasota County

28 species have been documented here, 4 of them venomous.

Venomous snakes in Sarasota County

Full guide & what to do if bitten →

Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake
Crotalus adamanteus
Venomous
Heavy body, broad triangular head, vertical (cat-like) pupils, and a segmented keratin rattle at the tail tip.
Pygmy Rattlesnake
Sistrurus miliarius
Venomous
Stout, dark-blotched body, nine large scales on the crown, and a small rattle.
Eastern Coralsnake
Micrurus fulvius
Venomous
Rings of red, yellow, and black where red touches yellow; small rounded head and round pupils.
Northern Cottonmouth
Agkistrodon piscivorus
Venomous
Heavy body, triangular head, vertical pupils, and a heat-sensing pit between each eye and nostril.

Snakes in Sarasota County

Venomous snakes in Sarasota County

Every snake recorded in Sarasota County

Snakes in Sarasota County: FAQ

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