Snakes in Douglas County

• 
  Eastern Copperhead

  Agkistrodon contortrix

  ▲ Venomous

  Heavy body, triangular head, vertical pupils, and a heat-sensing pit between each eye and nostril.

• 
  Pygmy Rattlesnake

  Sistrurus miliarius

  ▲ Venomous

  Stout, dark-blotched body, nine large scales on the crown, and a small rattle.

Every snake recorded in Douglas County

Eastern Copperhead

Agkistrodon contortrix

▲ Venomous

Common Watersnake

Nerodia sipedon

Harmless

Western Ratsnake

Pantherophis obsoletus

Harmless

Rough Greensnake

Opheodrys aestivus

Harmless

Ring-necked Snake

Diadophis punctatus

Harmless

Pygmy Rattlesnake

Sistrurus miliarius

▲ Venomous

Prairie Kingsnake

Lampropeltis calligaster

Harmless

DeKay's Brownsnake

Storeria dekayi

Harmless

Speckled Kingsnake

Lampropeltis holbrooki

Harmless

Compiled from verified GBIF & iNaturalist observations. Informational only.

Snakes in Douglas County: FAQ

Are there venomous snakes in Douglas County, Missouri?

Yes. 2 venomous snake species have verified records in Douglas County, Missouri, including Eastern Copperhead, Pygmy Rattlesnake. Most snakes in Douglas County, Missouri, however, are harmless.

How many snake species live in Douglas County, Missouri?

9 snake species have verified records in Douglas County, Missouri, of which 2 are venomous.

What is the most commonly seen snake in Douglas County, Missouri?

The Eastern Copperhead is the most frequently reported snake in Douglas County, Missouri, based on verified wildlife observations.

What should I do if I see a venomous snake in Douglas County, Missouri?

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.

Nearby counties