Montana
Snakes in Lewis and Clark County
6 species have been documented here, 1 of them venomous.
Venomous snakes in Lewis and Clark County
Full guide & what to do if bitten →
Prairie RattlesnakeCrotalus viridisVenomousHeavy body, broad triangular head, vertical (cat-like) pupils, and a segmented keratin rattle at the tail tip.
Every snake recorded in Lewis and Clark County

Western Terrestrial Garter Snake
Thamnophis elegans
Harmless

Gopher Snake
Pituophis catenifer
Harmless

North American Racer
Coluber constrictor
Harmless

Prairie Rattlesnake
Crotalus viridis
Venomous

Northern Rubber Boa
Charina bottae
Harmless

Common Garter Snake
Thamnophis sirtalis
Harmless
Compiled from verified GBIF & iNaturalist observations. Informational only.
Snakes in Lewis and Clark County: FAQ
- Are there venomous snakes in Lewis and Clark County, Montana?
- Yes. 1 venomous snake species has verified records in Lewis and Clark County, Montana, including Prairie Rattlesnake. Most snakes in Lewis and Clark County, Montana, however, are harmless.
- How many snake species live in Lewis and Clark County, Montana?
- 6 snake species have verified records in Lewis and Clark County, Montana, of which 1 is venomous.
- What is the most commonly seen snake in Lewis and Clark County, Montana?
- The Western Terrestrial Garter Snake is the most frequently reported snake in Lewis and Clark County, Montana, based on verified wildlife observations.
- What should I do if I see a venomous snake in Lewis and Clark County, Montana?
- 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.