Snakes in Virginia

Virginia is home to about 36 native snake species, making it one of the more snake-rich states in the region, yet only 3 of them are venomous. The vast majority of Virginia's snakes are harmless and pose no threat to people. From the Blue Ridge to the tidal Chesapeake, the snakes you are most likely to encounter are shy, non-venomous species that would rather flee than confront you.

Virginia's exceptional snake diversity comes from its sweep of habitats across the state. The Appalachian ridges and hardwood forests of the west provide rocky slopes and dens, the rolling Piedmont adds fields and stream valleys, and the warm coastal plain brings tidal marshes, cypress swamps, and pine woods. This gradient from cool mountains to warm southeastern wetlands supports both northern and southern species, which is why Virginia's snake list is so long.

The 3 venomous species recorded in Virginia are the Eastern Copperhead, the Northern Cottonmouth, and the Timber Rattlesnake. The copperhead is the most widespread, favoring wooded, rocky hillsides and forest edges statewide. The cottonmouth is a water-associated pit viper restricted to swamps and wetlands of the southeastern coastal plain. The timber rattlesnake lives on remote forested ridges and in some southeastern lowlands, where it is closely managed. All three are secretive and avoid people.

Most snakes Virginians actually see are harmless: common garter snakes in gardens, the eastern ratsnake (black rat snake) in woods and barns, eastern milk snakes in fields and basements, northern watersnakes along rivers and ponds (very often mistaken for copperheads or cottonmouths), DeKay's brownsnake in towns, and ring-necked snakes under logs. Snakebites are very rare in Virginia and almost always happen when someone handles or tries to kill a snake. Never assume a wild snake is safe to handle. For any bite, call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or 911.