New Mexico
Snakes in Otero County
32 species have been documented here, 7 of them venomous.
Venomous snakes in Otero County
Full guide & what to do if bitten →
Western Diamond-backed RattlesnakeCrotalus atroxVenomousHeavy body, broad triangular head, vertical (cat-like) pupils, and a segmented keratin rattle at the tail tip.
Prairie RattlesnakeCrotalus viridisVenomousHeavy body, broad triangular head, vertical (cat-like) pupils, and a segmented keratin rattle at the tail tip.
Eastern Black-tailed RattlesnakeCrotalus ornatusVenomousHeavy body, broad triangular head, vertical (cat-like) pupils, and a segmented keratin rattle at the tail tip.
Mojave RattlesnakeCrotalus scutulatusVenomousHeavy body, broad triangular head, vertical (cat-like) pupils, and a segmented keratin rattle at the tail tip.
Western Black-tailed RattlesnakeCrotalus molossusVenomousHeavy body, broad triangular head, vertical (cat-like) pupils, and a segmented keratin rattle at the tail tip.
Western MassasaugaSistrurus tergeminusVenomousStout, dark-blotched body, nine large scales on the crown, and a small rattle.
Rock RattlesnakeCrotalus lepidusVenomousHeavy body, broad triangular head, vertical (cat-like) pupils, and a segmented keratin rattle at the tail tip.
Every snake recorded in Otero County
Compiled from verified GBIF & iNaturalist observations. Informational only.
Snakes in Otero County: FAQ
- Are there venomous snakes in Otero County, New Mexico?
- Yes. 7 venomous snake species have verified records in Otero County, New Mexico, including Western Diamond-backed Rattlesnake, Prairie Rattlesnake, Eastern Black-tailed Rattlesnake, Mojave Rattlesnake. Most snakes in Otero County, New Mexico, however, are harmless.
- How many snake species live in Otero County, New Mexico?
- 30+ snake species have verified records in Otero County, New Mexico, of which 7 are venomous.
- What is the most commonly seen snake in Otero County, New Mexico?
- The Western Terrestrial Garter Snake is the most frequently reported snake in Otero County, New Mexico, based on verified wildlife observations.
- What should I do if I see a venomous snake in Otero County, New Mexico?
- 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.