Snakes in North Dakota: identification guide and best places to start
Yes, North Dakota is home to several snake species, but sightings are most common in the Missouri River Valley and along prairie grasslands. Your best bet is to check wetland edges or rocky outcrops in late spring and early fall. Start with identifying the common garter snake, then look for the distinctive rattles of the prairie rattlesnake.
By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated June 28, 2026.
Eastern Yellow-bellied Racer · tlaloc27 CC BY
Red-sided Garter Snake · John Rosford CC BY
Plains Garter Snake · Jason Hill CC BY
- 8
- species recorded
- 1
- GBIF records
- June, July, May
- peak months
Snakes are rare in North Dakota, so you might also want:
Verified species, source iNaturalist
8 types of snakes recorded in North Dakota
8 snake species have a verified observation record in North Dakota 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
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5
6
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8
Plus 1 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
776 verified observations on iNaturalist of snake have been recorded in North Dakota, most often in June, July, May.
When snake are recorded in North Dakota
Yes, North Dakota is home to several snake species, but sightings are most common in the Missouri River Valley and along prairie grasslands. Your best bet is to check wetland edges or rocky outcrops in late spring and early fall. Start with identifying the common garter snake, then look for the distinctive rattles of the prairie rattlesnake.
Where are snakes most likely to be seen in North Dakota?
You will most often notice snakes in the Missouri River Valley, along the Little Missouri River, and in the badlands of western North Dakota. Prairie grasslands, wetland edges, and rocky slopes are prime spots. In the eastern part of the state, look near lakes and marshes where garter snakes hunt amphibians. Start by checking sunny south-facing slopes in the morning when snakes bask.
In North Dakota, 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 are snakes most active in North Dakota?
Snakes emerge from brumation in April and stay active until October. Peak activity occurs from late May through early September when temperatures are warmest. On hot summer days, they are most active in the early morning and late afternoon. After a rain, especially in spring, you have better odds of spotting them crossing trails or roads near water.
How can you identify common North Dakota snakes?
Start with these simple cues: **Garter snakes** have three light stripes running the length of their body. **Plains hognose snake** has an upturned snout and can flatten its head like a cobra. **Prairie rattlesnake** has a distinct rattle and heat-sensing pits between eyes and nostrils. **Bullsnake** has a blotched pattern and often hisses loudly. For more detailed identification, see oursnake identification guide.
See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.
What species of snakes live in North Dakota?
North Dakota has 8 native snake species: Plains garter snake, Common garter snake, Red-sided garter snake, Plains hognose snake, Bullsnake, Smooth green snake, Prairie rattlesnake, and Western fox snake. Only the Prairie rattlesnake is venomous. You can find range maps on theNorth Dakota wildlife page.
How to stay safe while snake spotting?
Give snakes space, especially the Prairie rattlesnake. Wear sturdy boots and long pants when hiking in badlands. Do not reach into rock crevices or under logs without looking. Most bites happen when people try to handle or kill snakes. A walking stick can help you check the path ahead. If you hear a rattle, stop and back away slowly.
Where are the best places to see snakes in North Dakota?
Top locations include Theodore Roosevelt National Park (especially the South Unit), the Little Missouri State Park, and the Sheyenne National Grassland. Also try the Souris River Valley or the shores of Lake Sakakawea. Always check park regulations before heading out, as some areas restrict off-trail travel.
What should you wear or bring for snake spotting?
Beyond safety gear, consider wearing a lightweight snake-themed shirt to show your interest. Here are a few options from oursnake t-shirt collection:
Rattlesnake Graphic T-Shirt
A bold rattlesnake design that stands out on the trail. Made from soft cotton, perfect for warm-weather herping.Check Price and Availability
Green Viper Snake T-Shirt
Features a vibrant green viper illustration. Durable print that holds up to repeated washes.Check Price and Availability
Retro Cute Snake T-Shirt
A playful, nostalgic snake graphic. Lightweight and good for layering on cooler mornings.Check Price and Availability
Are there venomous snakes in North Dakota?
Yes, the Prairie rattlesnake is the only venomous species. It lives west of the Missouri River and is most active in prairie dog towns and rocky canyons. Its bite is serious but rarely fatal if treated. You can tell it apart from other snakes by the rattle on its tail and its diamond-shaped head.
What is the most common snake in North Dakota?
The Plains garter snake is the most widespread. It adapts to almost any habitat and is often seen in yards, gardens, and ditches. Look for its three yellow stripes and its habit of hunting for worms and small frogs. If you want to learn more about snakes across the country, visit oursnake hub.
See ourtour planning ideasfor the next step.
Gear and field guides
Plan your trip
Best time to see snake in North Dakota: June, July, May
See the month-by-month sighting calendar.
Plan your snake sighting in North Dakota
1 verified snake records have been logged in North Dakota, most recently in 2013. See the GBIF records.
Where to look in North Dakota
- Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail · Wildlife Watching · Find hotels
- North Country National Scenic Trail · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- Theodore Roosevelt National Park · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site · Find hotels
Frequently asked questions
What snake species live in North Dakota?+
You will most often notice snakes in the Missouri River Valley, along the Little Missouri River, and in the badlands of western North Dakota. Prairie grasslands, wetland edges, and rocky slopes are prime spots. In the eastern part of the state, look near lakes and marshes where garter snakes hunt amphibians. Start by checking sunny south-facing slopes in the morning when snakes bask. In North Dakota, 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 North Dakota?+
You will most often notice snakes in the Missouri River Valley, along the Little Missouri River, and in the badlands of western North Dakota. Prairie grasslands, wetland edges, and rocky slopes are prime spots. In the eastern part of the state, look near lakes and marshes where garter snakes hunt amphibians. Start by checking sunny south-facing slopes in the morning when snakes bask. In North Dakota, 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 North Dakota?+
You will most often notice snakes in the Missouri River Valley, along the Little Missouri River, and in the badlands of western North Dakota. Prairie grasslands, wetland edges, and rocky slopes are prime spots. In the eastern part of the state, look near lakes and marshes where garter snakes hunt amphibians. Start by checking sunny south-facing slopes in the morning when snakes bask. In North Dakota, 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 North Dakota
Common questions about snakes