38 Types of Snakes in Kansas
Yes, Kansas is home to over 40 snake species, including four venomous pit vipers. Most are harmless and beneficial, but learning to distinguish them is essential for safe wildlife viewing. Start by observing three key identification features: head shape (triangular for venomous, rounded for non-venomous), pupil shape (vertical slits in venomous species, round in most others), and the presence of a heat-sensing pit (located between the eye and nostril in pit vipers). This guide covers the most common species you will encounter, how to identify them with confidence, their preferred habitats across different regions of Kansas, and when you are most likely to spot them.
By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated July 2, 2026.
- 8
- species recorded
- April, May, June
- peak months
Verified species, source iNaturalist
38 types of snakes recorded in Kansas
38 snake species have a verified observation record in Kansas across snakes (suborder Serpentes), each with at least 10 confirmed sightings. The full list, ranked by how often each is recorded, is below.
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Also recorded in Kansas
| # | Species | Scientific name | Records |
|---|---|---|---|
| 13 | Prairie KingsnakeLampropeltis calligaster | Lampropeltis calligaster | 508 |
| 14 | Speckled KingsnakeLampropeltis holbrooki | Lampropeltis holbrooki | 498 |
| 15 | Western MilksnakeLampropeltis gentilis | Lampropeltis gentilis | 492 |
| 16 | Western Ribbon SnakeThamnophis proximus | Thamnophis proximus | 461 |
| 17 | Great Plains RatsnakePantherophis emoryi | Pantherophis emoryi | 434 |
| 18 | Diamondback WatersnakeNerodia rhombifer | Nerodia rhombifer | 414 |
| 19 | Flat-headed SnakeTantilla gracilis | Tantilla gracilis | 406 |
| 20 | Plains Garter SnakeThamnophis radix | Thamnophis radix | 404 |
| 21 | Western Worm SnakeCarphophis vermis | Carphophis vermis | 312 |
| 22 | Rough GreensnakeOpheodrys aestivus | Opheodrys aestivus | 303 |
| 23 | Common CoachwhipMasticophis flagellum | Masticophis flagellum | 282 |
| 24 | Graham's Crawfish SnakeRegina grahamii | Regina grahamii | 200 |
| 25 | Timber RattlesnakeCrotalus horridus | Crotalus horridus | 176 |
| 26 | Broad-banded CopperheadAgkistrodon laticinctus | Agkistrodon laticinctus | 144 |
| 27 | Eastern Hognose SnakeHeterodon platirhinos | Heterodon platirhinos | 129 |
| 28 | Glossy SnakeArizona elegans | Arizona elegans | 96 |
| 29 | Plains Hognose SnakeHeterodon nasicus | Heterodon nasicus | 89 |
| 30 | Rough EarthsnakeVirginia striatula | Virginia striatula | 76 |
| 31 | Great Plains Ground SnakeSonora episcopa | Sonora episcopa | 74 |
| 32 | Plains Black-headed SnakeTantilla nigriceps | Tantilla nigriceps | 63 |
| 33 | Eastern MilksnakeLampropeltis triangulum | Lampropeltis triangulum | 62 |
| 34 | Long-nosed SnakeRhinocheilus lecontei | Rhinocheilus lecontei | 52 |
| 35 | Chihuahuan NightsnakeHypsiglena jani | Hypsiglena jani | 30 |
| 36 | Western Diamond-backed RattlesnakeCrotalus atrox | Crotalus atrox | 19 |
| 37 | Smooth EarthsnakeVirginia valeriae | Virginia valeriae | 12 |
| 38 | Texas Blind SnakeRena dulcis | Rena dulcis | 11 |
Plus 3 more recorded only rarely (fewer than 10 verified sightings). Counts from verified iNaturalist observations. Photos by iNaturalist observers, reused under the licence each observer chose.
Real sighting data, source iNaturalist
26,444 verified observations on iNaturalist of snake have been recorded in Kansas, most often in April, May, June.
When snake are recorded in Kansas
Yes, Kansas is home to over 40 snake species, including four venomous pit vipers. Most are harmless and beneficial, but learning to distinguish them is essential for safe wildlife viewing. Start by observing three key identification features: head shape (triangular for venomous, rounded for non-venomous), pupil shape (vertical slits in venomous species, round in most others), and the presence of a heat-sensing pit (located between the eye and nostril in pit vipers). This guide covers the most common species you will encounter, how to identify them with confidence, their preferred habitats across different regions of Kansas, and when you are most likely to spot them.
1. What are the most common snakes in Kansas?
The species you are most likely to see include the prairie kingsnake, eastern yellowbelly racer, plains garter snake, and western rat snake. These are non-venomous and often found around homes, fields, and woodlands. The prairie kingsnake has a light brown body with dark blotches, while the racer is solid tan or olive with a white chin. Garter snakes have distinct yellow stripes running the length of their body. The western rat snake is a climber with a dark body and white belly, often seen scaling fence posts or barn siding. For more details, check oursnakes of the Great Plainsguide.
2. How can you tell venomous from non-venomous snakes in Kansas?
The four venomous species in Kansas are all pit vipers: the prairie rattlesnake, timber rattlesnake, western massasauga, and copperhead. They share a triangular head, vertical (elliptical) pupils, and a pit between eye and nostril. Non-venomous snakes have rounded heads, round pupils, and no pit. The easiest field mark is head shape: a broad, arrowhead shape signals caution. If you see a rattle on the tail, it is definitely venomous. For lookalikes, the harmless bullsnake can mimic rattlesnakes by coiling and vibrating its tail, but its head is narrower and it lacks a rattle.
3. Where in Kansas are you most likely to see snakes?
Snakes are distributed across the state, but the eastern third (Flint Hills, Osage Cuestas, and southeastern woodlands) has the highest diversity. Look near rock piles, creek banks, tallgrass prairies, and forest edges. In the western shortgrass prairies and canyons, you are more likely to see prairie rattlesnakes and bullsnakes. Start your search in early morning or late evening along trails or roadsides. The state'swildlife viewing areasoffer good starting points.
See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.
4. What is the best time of year to spot snakes in Kansas?
The peak season runs from April through October. Spring (April to May) is excellent because snakes emerge from brumation and are often seen basking on rocks or pavement. Early summer brings breeding activity, and late summer (August to September) sees young snakes moving. The warmest part of the day (midday) is less productive; aim for 8-10 a.m. or 5-7 p.m. when snakes are most active. Fall (September to October) offers a second window as snakes prepare for winter dormancy. For specific timing in different regions, refer to ourKansas wildlife calendar.
5. What should you do if you encounter a snake in Kansas?
Most snakes will flee if given a chance. Stay calm, back away slowly, and give it space. Do not try to handle or kill it; that is when most bites happen. If you need a snake relocated, contact a local wildlife rehabilitator. Learn to identify venomous species so you can make an informed decision. For safety tips and more identification help, see oursnake safety page.
6. How to identify Kansas rattlesnakes?
Three rattlesnake species occur in Kansas: the prairie rattlesnake (light brown with dark spots, found in west), the timber rattlesnake (yellowish or gray with dark chevrons, in east), and the western massasauga (smaller, with dark blotches on a gray body). All have a rattle at the tail tip, but young may have only a single button. The prairie rattlesnake is the most widespread and often seen on rocky hillsides. The timber rattlesnake prefers wooded areas in eastern Kansas. The western massasauga is the smallest venomous species in the state and inhabits wetland margins and grasslands. To compare them side by side, visit ourrattlesnake identification guide.
7. What non-venomous snakes mimic dangerous species?
The bullsnake is the classic mimic, copying rattlesnake defense behavior by vibrating its tail rapidly in leaf litter or against dry grass. This vibration produces a sound similar to a rattle. However, the bullsnake has a smaller, more rounded head, lacks heat-sensing pits, and has no actual rattle at the tail tip. The bullsnake is actually a valuable predator of rodents and should be left alone. The gopher snake (a subspecies of bullsnake) and the harmless black rat snake also display defensive coiling. Learning these mimics prevents unnecessary fear and protects beneficial predators.
8. Where do venomous snakes prefer to live in Kansas?
The prairie rattlesnake dominates the western plains and canyon areas, preferring rocky hillsides, prairie dog towns, and grassland edges where it hunts ground squirrels and prairie dogs. The timber rattlesnake is concentrated in the eastern Flint Hills and southeastern forests, favoring wooded bluffs overlooking streams and rocky outcrops. The western massasauga inhabits wetland margins, sedge meadows, and boggy areas primarily in east-central Kansas. The copperhead is rare in Kansas and confined to the southeastern corner, preferring moist deciduous woodlands and stream edges. Understanding these microhabitats helps you anticipate where each species is likely to occur.
9. What do different Kansas snakes eat?
Dietary preferences vary by species and size. Garter snakes and racers are generalists, eating small prey like insects, frogs, and small rodents. The prairie kingsnake specializes in small snakes and lizards. Rat snakes, bullsnakes, and the non-venomous racer species hunt rodents, with larger individuals tackling rabbits and squirrels. Venomous pit vipers use heat-sensing pits to locate warm-blooded prey (rodents, rabbits) at night. Young snakes of all species start with smaller prey and graduate to larger items as they grow. This feeding ecology makes many snakes valuable for rodent control around farms and gardens.
10. Show your snake pride with gear from Easy Street Markets
After a day of snake spotting, celebrate your find with some wildlife-themed apparel. TheRattlesnake Graphic T-Shirtfeatures a bold design that captures the prairie rattler. For a more understated look, theGreen Viper Snake T-Shirtshows off a sleek viper. If you prefer something playful, theRetro Cute Snake T-Shirtadds a fun touch. And for the everyday herper, the classicSnake T-Shirtis a reliable choice. Check out our fullsnake t-shirt collectionto find your favorite.
11. Frequently Asked Questions about Kansas snakes
**Are there water moccasins in Kansas?** No, water moccasins (cottonmouths) do not occur in Kansas. Their range ends in southern Missouri and Oklahoma. **What is the largest snake in Kansas?** The western rat snake can reach over 6 feet, but the bullsnake often exceeds 5 feet and is the heaviest. **Can you keep a wild snake as a pet in Kansas?** Yes, but you need a fishing or hunting license for non-venomous species; venomous snakes require a special permit. **What should I do if bitten by a venomous snake?** Stay calm, immobilize the bitten limb, and seek emergency medical care immediately. Do not cut or suck the wound. For more answers, visit ourKansas snake FAQ.
See ourtour planning ideasfor the next step.
12. How do snakes shed and what does a shed skin tell you?
Snakes shed their entire skin periodically throughout the year, with frequency increasing in warmer months. Before shedding, a snake becomes dull and its eyes turn milky blue for a few days. After the shed cycle completes, the new skin is vibrant. Shed skins are often found in the wild and can be identified by species using the same head and scale patterns as live snakes. Finding a shed skin is a safe way to confirm which species inhabit an area. The skin is fragile when fresh and disintegrates within weeks, so shed skins are more common in spring and summer when snakes are active and moving.
Gear and field guides
Frequently asked questions
1. What are the most common snakes in Kansas?+
The species you are most likely to see include the prairie kingsnake, eastern yellowbelly racer, plains garter snake, and western rat snake. These are non-venomous and often found around homes, fields, and woodlands. The prairie kingsnake has a light brown body with dark blotches, while the racer is solid tan or olive with a white chin. Garter snakes have distinct yellow stripes running the length of their body. The western rat snake is a climber with a dark body and white belly, often seen scaling fence posts or barn siding. For more details, check oursnakes of the Great Plainsguide.
2. How can you tell venomous from non-venomous snakes in Kansas?+
The four venomous species in Kansas are all pit vipers: the prairie rattlesnake, timber rattlesnake, western massasauga, and copperhead. They share a triangular head, vertical (elliptical) pupils, and a pit between eye and nostril. Non-venomous snakes have rounded heads, round pupils, and no pit. The easiest field mark is head shape: a broad, arrowhead shape signals caution. If you see a rattle on the tail, it is definitely venomous. For lookalikes, the harmless bullsnake can mimic rattlesnakes by coiling and vibrating its tail, but its head is narrower and it lacks a rattle.
3. Where in Kansas are you most likely to see snakes?+
Snakes are distributed across the state, but the eastern third (Flint Hills, Osage Cuestas, and southeastern woodlands) has the highest diversity. Look near rock piles, creek banks, tallgrass prairies, and forest edges. In the western shortgrass prairies and canyons, you are more likely to see prairie rattlesnakes and bullsnakes. Start your search in early morning or late evening along trails or roadsides. The state'swildlife viewing areasoffer good starting points. See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.
4. What is the best time of year to spot snakes in Kansas?+
The peak season runs from April through October. Spring (April to May) is excellent because snakes emerge from brumation and are often seen basking on rocks or pavement. Early summer brings breeding activity, and late summer (August to September) sees young snakes moving. The warmest part of the day (midday) is less productive; aim for 8-10 a.m. or 5-7 p.m. when snakes are most active. Fall (September to October) offers a second window as snakes prepare for winter dormancy. For specific timing in different regions, refer to ourKansas wildlife calendar.
5. What should you do if you encounter a snake in Kansas?+
Most snakes will flee if given a chance. Stay calm, back away slowly, and give it space. Do not try to handle or kill it; that is when most bites happen. If you need a snake relocated, contact a local wildlife rehabilitator. Learn to identify venomous species so you can make an informed decision. For safety tips and more identification help, see oursnake safety page.
6. How to identify Kansas rattlesnakes?+
Three rattlesnake species occur in Kansas: the prairie rattlesnake (light brown with dark spots, found in west), the timber rattlesnake (yellowish or gray with dark chevrons, in east), and the western massasauga (smaller, with dark blotches on a gray body). All have a rattle at the tail tip, but young may have only a single button. The prairie rattlesnake is the most widespread and often seen on rocky hillsides. The timber rattlesnake prefers wooded areas in eastern Kansas. The western massasauga is the smallest venomous species in the state and inhabits wetland margins and grasslands. To compare them side by side, visit ourrattlesnake identification guide.
7. What non-venomous snakes mimic dangerous species?+
The bullsnake is the classic mimic, copying rattlesnake defense behavior by vibrating its tail rapidly in leaf litter or against dry grass. This vibration produces a sound similar to a rattle. However, the bullsnake has a smaller, more rounded head, lacks heat-sensing pits, and has no actual rattle at the tail tip. The bullsnake is actually a valuable predator of rodents and should be left alone. The gopher snake (a subspecies of bullsnake) and the harmless black rat snake also display defensive coiling. Learning these mimics prevents unnecessary fear and protects beneficial predators.
8. Where do venomous snakes prefer to live in Kansas?+
The prairie rattlesnake dominates the western plains and canyon areas, preferring rocky hillsides, prairie dog towns, and grassland edges where it hunts ground squirrels and prairie dogs. The timber rattlesnake is concentrated in the eastern Flint Hills and southeastern forests, favoring wooded bluffs overlooking streams and rocky outcrops. The western massasauga inhabits wetland margins, sedge meadows, and boggy areas primarily in east-central Kansas. The copperhead is rare in Kansas and confined to the southeastern corner, preferring moist deciduous woodlands and stream edges. Understanding these microhabitats helps you anticipate where each species is likely to occur.
9. What do different Kansas snakes eat?+
Dietary preferences vary by species and size. Garter snakes and racers are generalists, eating small prey like insects, frogs, and small rodents. The prairie kingsnake specializes in small snakes and lizards. Rat snakes, bullsnakes, and the non-venomous racer species hunt rodents, with larger individuals tackling rabbits and squirrels. Venomous pit vipers use heat-sensing pits to locate warm-blooded prey (rodents, rabbits) at night. Young snakes of all species start with smaller prey and graduate to larger items as they grow. This feeding ecology makes many snakes valuable for rodent control around farms and gardens.
12. How do snakes shed and what does a shed skin tell you?+
Snakes shed their entire skin periodically throughout the year, with frequency increasing in warmer months. Before shedding, a snake becomes dull and its eyes turn milky blue for a few days. After the shed cycle completes, the new skin is vibrant. Shed skins are often found in the wild and can be identified by species using the same head and scale patterns as live snakes. Finding a shed skin is a safe way to confirm which species inhabit an area. The skin is fragile when fresh and disintegrates within weeks, so shed skins are more common in spring and summer when snakes are active and moving.
Keep exploring
More places to see snake
More wildlife in Kansas