Snakes in Alaska: identification guide and where to start looking

1. What types of snakes live in Alaska?

No snake species have established breeding populations in Alaska. The only snake ever confirmed is the common garter snake (*Thamnophis sirtalis*), with rare sightings near Juneau and Ketchikan. These are likely stowaways from the lower 48 states and do not form viable populations. For practical purposes, there are no snakes to systematically identify in the wild.

2. Where in Alaska have snakes been spotted?

Most snake sightings in Alaska cluster around Southeast Alaska communities like Juneau, Ketchikan, and Sitka. These are often near ports or campgrounds where humans have inadvertently transported them. Away from the coast, especially north of the Alaska Range, conditions are too cold and dry for any snake to survive. If you want the best odds, check disturbed areas near water in June or July.

3. Best season for possible snake sightings?

Summer is the only window. From June to August, daytime temperatures in Southeast Alaska can reach the 60s or low 70s °F, warm enough for a garter snake to be active. Even then, sightings are extremely rare and unpredictable. Morning hours after a warm night offer the highest likelihood, but most visitors leave without seeing a snake.

See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.

4. How to identify a snake in Alaska?

If you see a long, legless reptile in Alaska, check for scales and a distinct head. Garter snakes are small (18-26 inches), with three yellow stripes on a dark brown or green body. They have round pupils and keeled scales. However, many non-snake animals are mistaken for snakes: eels have fins and gill slits, legless lizards have eyelids and ear openings, and lampreys have a round sucker mouth. Look closely at the face and body shape.

5. What are common lookalikes for snakes in Alaska?

The most frequent snake misidentifications in Alaska involve the Pacific lamprey, which has a long eel-like body but no scales, and the Alaska blackfish, which has small fins. Legless lizards (slowworms) do not occur in Alaska, so you can rule them out. If you see a creature that seems to slither but has visible gill slits or a sucker mouth, it is a fish or lamprey, not a snake. True snakes have dry scales and a forked tongue.

6. Why are there no snakes in Alaska?

Alaska's climate is too cold for reptiles that require external heat to digest food. The short summers provide too few days above 60°F for egg incubation or juvenile survival. Permafrost limits suitable denning sites for hibernation. Even the hardiest garter snake cannot survive the long, harsh winters. This makes Alaska one of the few places in the world where snakes are completely absent from native fauna.

7. Where can you learn more about Alaska's reptiles and amphibians?

For a broader look at Alaska's herpetofauna, visit ourAlaska wildlife hub. You can also explore the general snake information on oursnake identification pageto compare with snakes found elsewhere. If you are curious about other animals you might actually see in Alaska, ourdeerandfoxguides cover species with established populations.

8. Show your appreciation for snakes with wildlife apparel

Even though snakes are rare in Alaska, you can still celebrate them. Check out these snake-themed shirts from Easy Street Markets:

### Rattlesnake Graphic T-Shirt

This bold rattlesnake design works well for both snake lovers and those who appreciate striking wildlife art. Durable print on a comfortable cotton blend.Check Price and Availability

### Green Viper Snake T-Shirt

A vivid viper illustration that captures the intensity of a real snake encounter. Great for herpetology fans.Check Price and Availability

### Retro Cute Snake T-Shirt

For a lighter take, this retro style turns snakes into a playful motif. Soft fabric for everyday wear.Check Price and Availability

Browse all snake shirts at ourT-shirts category.

9. Frequently asked questions about snakes in Alaska

**Can you own a snake as a pet in Alaska?** Yes, it is legal to own non-native snakes like ball pythons or corn snakes, but you must keep them indoors year-round.

**Are there any venomous snakes in Alaska?** No, Alaska has no venomous snakes native or established.

**Could climate change bring snakes to Alaska?** It is unlikely in the near term. Even with warming, the lack of suitable hibernation sites and the short summer remain major barriers.

**What should I do if I see a snake in Alaska?** Document it with a photo and report it to the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. They track sightings to monitor potential introductions.

See ourtour planning ideasfor the next step.