Venomous Snakes in Ohio

Snakes Can Be Found in Ohio, But Are They Venomous?

Ohio is home to several species of snakes, both venomous and non-venomous. While some of these snakes are harmless, some can be quite dangerous. It’s important to be able to identify and avoid venomous species so you can stay safe. In this article, we’ll look at the venomous snakes found in Ohio and how to tell them apart from the harmless ones.

Types of Venomous Snakes Found in Ohio

The two species of venomous snakes that can be found in Ohio are the Timber Rattlesnake and the Eastern Massasauga. Both species are found in the eastern half of the state, although they are becoming increasingly rare.

Timber Rattlesnake

The Timber Rattlesnake is the most common of the two venomous species and can be found in the eastern half of the state. They are usually brown or gray in color with a distinctive pattern of diamond-shaped markings. They can grow up to five feet in length, and their tail is tipped with a loud rattle. They are typically found in wooded areas, where they hunt small mammals.

Eastern Massasauga

The Eastern Massasauga is a smaller species of venomous snake found in Ohio, usually growing to no more than three feet in length. They are usually gray or brown in color with a pattern of darker spots or blotches. They are usually found in wetland habitats such as marshes, swamps, and bogs, where they hunt frogs and other small animals.

How to Identify Venomous Snakes in Ohio

The most reliable way to tell if a snake is venomous or not is to look for a rattle on the end of its tail. The Timber Rattlesnake is the only venomous species in Ohio with a rattle, so if you see a snake with a rattle, you can assume it’s venomous. Otherwise, you’ll have to look for other signs, such as the pattern of diamond-shaped markings on the body of the Timber Rattlesnake.

What To Do If You Encounter a Venomous Snake

If you encounter a venomous snake, it’s best to leave it alone and give it plenty of space. Do not attempt to touch or handle the snake, as this could lead to a bite. If you must move the snake, use a long stick or pole to move it away from you. If you or someone you know is bitten by a venomous snake, call 911 immediately and seek medical attention.

Conclusion

Snakes can be found in Ohio, but it’s important to know which ones are venomous and which ones are harmless. The two species of venomous snakes found in Ohio are the Timber Rattlesnake and the Eastern Massasauga. If you encounter a snake, it’s best to leave it alone and give it plenty of space. If you or someone you know is bitten by a venomous snake, seek immediate medical attention.