Snakes of Ohio: What to Watch Out For

Are All Snakes in Ohio Poisonous?

The short answer is no, not all snakes in Ohio are poisonous. In fact, only four of the 24 species of snakes in Ohio are venomous. These four snakes are the Eastern Massasauga, Timber Rattlesnake, Copperhead, and Cottonmouth. The other 20 species of snakes in Ohio are non-venomous and harmless to humans.

Eastern Massasauga

The Eastern Massasauga is the smallest venomous snake in Ohio. It grows to an average length of 20 to 36 inches. It has a triangular-shaped head and a thick body with a series of dark spots along its back. Its habitat is usually wetland areas, but it can also be found in open meadows, woodlands, and other areas. It feeds on small mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.

Timber Rattlesnake

The Timber Rattlesnake is the largest venomous snake in Ohio. It typically grows between 36 to 48 inches in length. It has a large triangular-shaped head and a thick body with a series of black and brown alternating bands along its back. Its habitat is often wooded areas, but it can also be found in rocky hillsides, wetlands, and other areas. It feeds on small mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians.

Copperhead

The Copperhead is a medium-sized venomous snake in Ohio. It typically grows between 24 to 36 inches in length. It has a triangular-shaped head and a thick body with a series of copper-colored crossbands along its back. Its habitat is usually wooded areas, but it can also be found in open meadows, wetlands, and other areas. It feeds on small mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.

Cottonmouth

The Cottonmouth is the only aquatic venomous snake in Ohio. It typically grows between 24 to 48 inches in length. It has a large triangular-shaped head and a thick body with a series of dark crossbands along its back. Its habitat is usually wetlands and slow-moving bodies of water, but it can also be found in wooded areas and other areas. It feeds on small mammals, fish, reptiles, and amphibians.

How to Avoid Venomous Snakes

The best way to avoid venomous snakes is to be aware of their habitat and avoid these areas. Also, be sure to wear protective footwear and snake gaiters when hiking through the woods. Finally, if you come across a venomous snake, do not attempt to touch it or pick it up. Leave it alone and move away slowly.

Conclusion

Snakes are an important part of Ohio's natural environment. While most of the 24 species of snakes in Ohio are harmless to humans, there are four species that are venomous. By understanding the characteristics of these four species and avoiding their habitats, you can safely enjoy the outdoors and avoid a potentially dangerous encounter with a venomous snake.