Snakes in Missouri: identification guide and best places to start
Yes, snakes are common across Missouri. You will most likely find them in wooded areas, prairies, and near rivers. Start by learning the five venomous species and where they live. Early spring and late summer are prime times for spotting them safely.
By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated June 28, 2026.
Timber Rattlesnake · Bob Nieman CC BY
Western Ratsnake · Stephanie Dolrenry CC BY-SA
Western Ratsnake · Public domain CC0
- 8
- species recorded
- 0
- GBIF records
- May, April, June
- peak months
Snakes aren't established in Missouri, so you might be wondering:
Verified species, source iNaturalist
34 types of snakes recorded in Missouri
34 snake species have a verified observation record in Missouri across snakes (suborder Serpentes), each with at least 10 confirmed sightings. The full list, ranked by how often each is recorded, is below.
- 1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
Also recorded in Missouri
| # | Species | Scientific name | Records |
|---|---|---|---|
| 13 | Lined SnakeTropidoclonion lineatum | Tropidoclonion lineatum | 315 |
| 14 | Eastern MilksnakeLampropeltis triangulum | Lampropeltis triangulum | 265 |
| 15 | Plain-bellied WatersnakeNerodia erythrogaster | Nerodia erythrogaster | 254 |
| 16 | Rough EarthsnakeVirginia striatula | Virginia striatula | 227 |
| 17 | Diamondback WatersnakeNerodia rhombifer | Nerodia rhombifer | 227 |
| 18 | Eastern Hognose SnakeHeterodon platirhinos | Heterodon platirhinos | 218 |
| 19 | Timber RattlesnakeCrotalus horridus | Crotalus horridus | 174 |
| 20 | Northern CottonmouthAgkistrodon piscivorus | Agkistrodon piscivorus | 170 |
| 21 | Western Worm SnakeCarphophis vermis | Carphophis vermis | 165 |
| 22 | Smooth EarthsnakeVirginia valeriae | Virginia valeriae | 142 |
| 23 | Banded WatersnakeNerodia fasciata | Nerodia fasciata | 105 |
| 24 | Pygmy RattlesnakeSistrurus miliarius | Sistrurus miliarius | 81 |
| 25 | Graham's Crawfish SnakeRegina grahamii | Regina grahamii | 65 |
| 26 | Flat-headed SnakeTantilla gracilis | Tantilla gracilis | 60 |
| 27 | Plains Garter SnakeThamnophis radix | Thamnophis radix | 53 |
| 28 | Common CoachwhipMasticophis flagellum | Masticophis flagellum | 45 |
| 29 | Western MassasaugaSistrurus tergeminus | Sistrurus tergeminus | 43 |
| 30 | MudsnakeFarancia abacura | Farancia abacura | 24 |
| 31 | Gopher SnakePituophis catenifer | Pituophis catenifer | 19 |
| 32 | Western FoxsnakePantherophis ramspotti | Pantherophis ramspotti | 18 |
| 33 | Plains Hognose SnakeHeterodon nasicus | Heterodon nasicus | 14 |
| 34 | Great Plains RatsnakePantherophis emoryi | Pantherophis emoryi | 14 |
Plus 5 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
16,632 verified observations on iNaturalist of snake have been recorded in Missouri, most often in May, April, June.
When snake are recorded in Missouri
Yes, snakes are common across Missouri. You will most likely find them in wooded areas, prairies, and near rivers. Start by learning the five venomous species and where they live. Early spring and late summer are prime times for spotting them safely.
Where are you most likely to spot snakes in Missouri?
Most snake sightings in Missouri happen in rocky bluffs, glades, wetlands, and along river bottoms. The Ozark region and the Mississippi River corridor hold the highest diversity. For reliable spots, check out conservation areas likeHa Ha Tonka State Parkor the Current River. Refer to theMissouri state wildlife pagefor more specific locations.
In Missouri, snakes sightings usually improve when you slow down and match your first stop to where people are most likely to notice them. Use thestate wildlife huband theroute guideto narrow your first area, then check access, weather, and distance before you settle in. A short walk with one clear viewing plan often beats covering too much ground, especially when habitat changes fast from open edges to brush, wetlands, timber, shoreline, or neighborhood cover.
What time of year and weather conditions are best for snake spotting?
Spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) are the best seasons. Snakes come out to bask after cool nights, especially after a light rain. On hot summer days, look for them in the early morning or late evening. Overcast, humid afternoons also increase activity. Bring water and wear sturdy boots.
How can you tell a venomous snake from a non-venomous one in Missouri?
Missouri has five venomous species: copperhead, cottonmouth, timber rattlesnake, prairie rattlesnake, and Massasauga. Key identification cues include a triangular head, vertical (cat-eye) pupils, and a rattle (if present). Non-venomous snakes usually have round pupils and a narrow head. The copperhead has an hourglass pattern, while the cottonmouth has a thick body and a white mouth lining. For a complete guide, visit thesnake hub page.
See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.
What are the most common snake species in Missouri?
The eastern garter snake is the most frequently seen, followed by the black rat snake, prairie kingsnake, and Dekay's brownsnake. Garter snakes often show up in gardens and are harmless. Rat snakes are excellent climbers and may enter attics. Kingsnakes are known for eating other snakes, including venomous ones.
How do you safely observe snakes in the wild?
Keep a distance of at least three feet. Use binoculars for a closer look. Never try to handle or provoke a snake. Wear leather boots and long pants when hiking in snake habitats. If you hear a rattle, freeze and locate the snake before backing away slowly.
What should you do if a snake gets into your yard?
Most yards snakes are harmless garter or brown snakes. Leave them alone; they will move on. If it's a venomous species, keep your distance and call a professional for removal. To reduce encounters, seal gaps under sheds, keep grass short, and remove brush piles.
What snake-themed t-shirts can you wear?
Show your interest in Missouri snakes with apparel from Easy Street Markets. Check out these designs:
Rattlesnake Graphic T-Shirt
A bold rattlesnake graphic for those who appreciate the timbers of the Ozarks.Check Price and Availability
Green Viper Snake T-Shirt
A green viper design that stands out on the trail or at the campsite.Check Price and Availability
Retro Cute Snake T-Shirt
For the lighter side of snake watching; a fun retro style for casual wear.Check Price and Availability
Browse more designs on thet-shirts category page.
Is it safe to hike in Missouri snake habitats?
Yes, with basic precautions. Stick to cleared trails, watch where you step, and never reach into crevices. Snakes typically avoid humans. Carrying a walking stick can help you check the path ahead. For more safety tips, revisit thesnake hub page.
How do you identify a baby copperhead?
Baby copperheads look like adults but have a bright yellow tail tip they use to lure prey. Their hourglass pattern is darker and more contrasted. They are venomous from birth, so give them the same respect. Use the identification tips from theMissouri wildlife pageto confirm.
See ourtour planning ideasfor the next step.
Gear and field guides
Plan your trip
Best time to see snake in Missouri: May, April, June
See the month-by-month sighting calendar.
Plan your snake sighting in Missouri
There are no verified snake records for Missouri, which fits how uncommon they are here. See the GBIF records.
Where to look in Missouri
- George Washington Carver National Monument · Birdwatching · Find hotels
- Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail · Wildlife Watching · Find hotels
- Ozark National Scenic Riverways · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- Ulysses S Grant National Historic Site · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- Wilson's Creek National Battlefield · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- Butterfield Overland National Historic Trail · Find hotels
Frequently asked questions
What snake species live in Missouri?+
Most snake sightings in Missouri happen in rocky bluffs, glades, wetlands, and along river bottoms. The Ozark region and the Mississippi River corridor hold the highest diversity. For reliable spots, check out conservation areas likeHa Ha Tonka State Parkor the Current River. Refer to theMissouri state wildlife pagefor more specific locations. In Missouri, snakes sightings usually improve when you slow down and match your first stop to where people are most likely to notice them. Use thestate wildlife huband theroute guideto narrow your first area, then check access, weather, and distance before you settle in. A short walk with one clear viewing plan often beats covering too much ground, especially when habitat changes fast from open edges to brush, wetlands, timber, shoreline, or neighborhood cover.
Where can you see snakes in Missouri?+
Most snake sightings in Missouri happen in rocky bluffs, glades, wetlands, and along river bottoms. The Ozark region and the Mississippi River corridor hold the highest diversity. For reliable spots, check out conservation areas likeHa Ha Tonka State Parkor the Current River. Refer to theMissouri state wildlife pagefor more specific locations. In Missouri, snakes sightings usually improve when you slow down and match your first stop to where people are most likely to notice them. Use thestate wildlife huband theroute guideto narrow your first area, then check access, weather, and distance before you settle in. A short walk with one clear viewing plan often beats covering too much ground, especially when habitat changes fast from open edges to brush, wetlands, timber, shoreline, or neighborhood cover.
When is the best time to see snakes in Missouri?+
Most snake sightings in Missouri happen in rocky bluffs, glades, wetlands, and along river bottoms. The Ozark region and the Mississippi River corridor hold the highest diversity. For reliable spots, check out conservation areas likeHa Ha Tonka State Parkor the Current River. Refer to theMissouri state wildlife pagefor more specific locations. In Missouri, snakes sightings usually improve when you slow down and match your first stop to where people are most likely to notice them. Use thestate wildlife huband theroute guideto narrow your first area, then check access, weather, and distance before you settle in. A short walk with one clear viewing plan often beats covering too much ground, especially when habitat changes fast from open edges to brush, wetlands, timber, shoreline, or neighborhood cover.
Keep exploring
More places to see snake
More wildlife in Missouri