Snakes in Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia has 5 recorded snake species and zero venomous species. That low count reflects a wider pattern across Canada, where a cold northern climate sharply limits how many snake species can survive this far north.

Snakes are cold-blooded, so long, harsh winters set the ceiling on diversity here. To get through the cold months, many of Nova Scotia's snakes hibernate communally, gathering in shared underground dens below the frost line until spring warms the ground again. The species you are most likely to meet are common harmless ones such as garter snakes, which are the most cold-tolerant snakes in the Americas, along with redbelly snakes and ringneck snakes.

Every snake in Nova Scotia is harmless to people. There are no rattlesnakes, copperheads, or other venomous species in the province, so a snake you encounter here poses no venom risk. Even so, do not handle a wild snake. Observe it, give it space, and let it move on. For any snakebite or animal emergency, contact local emergency services, and in the United States you can reach Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222.