Snakes in New Brunswick

New Brunswick has 4 recorded snake species and zero venomous species. Canada's cold climate sharply limits how many snakes can live this far north, so the province's reptile list is short compared to states and provinces farther south.

The long northern winters are the main reason for that low diversity. Snakes are cold-blooded and cannot survive prolonged freezing, so the species that persist here are the cold-hardy ones, and they spend much of the year hibernating. Many gather in communal dens below the frost line and wait out the winter together, emerging only when temperatures climb in spring.

Every snake in New Brunswick is harmless to people. Common residents include garter snakes, which are the most cold-tolerant snakes in the Americas, along with redbelly snakes, ringneck snakes, and watersnakes. None are venomous and the risk to people is very low. Even so, never handle a wild snake. Leave it alone and give it space, and it will move on. For any bite or medical concern, contact local emergency services, or in the US call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222.