Snakes in Maryland

Maryland is home to about 24 native snake species, and only 2 of them are venomous. The great majority of snakes across the state are harmless and pose no threat to people. From the Chesapeake shoreline to the western mountains, the snakes you are most likely to encounter are shy, non-venomous species that would rather flee than confront you.

Maryland's strong snake diversity comes from its remarkable range of habitats squeezed into one state. The Appalachian ridges and hardwood forests of the west offer rocky slopes and dens, the rolling Piedmont adds fields and stream valleys, and the coastal plain brings tidal marshes, swamps, and pine woods along the Chesapeake Bay. This spread from cool mountains to warm coastal wetlands lets many different snakes find a niche.

The 2 venomous species recorded in Maryland are the Eastern Copperhead and the Timber Rattlesnake. The copperhead is the more widespread of the two, favoring wooded, rocky hillsides and forest edges across much of the state. The timber rattlesnake is now protected and rare, holding on in the remote forested ridges of western Maryland. Both are uncommon, secretive, and avoid people whenever possible.

The snakes Marylanders usually see are harmless: common garter snakes in gardens and parks, the eastern ratsnake (black rat snake) in woods and barns, eastern milk snakes in fields and basements, northern watersnakes along rivers and the bay (frequently mistaken for copperheads or cottonmouths), DeKay's brownsnake in towns, and ring-necked snakes under logs. Snakebites are very rare in Maryland and almost always happen when someone handles or tries to kill a snake. Never assume a wild snake is safe to handle. For any bite, call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or 911.