Snakes in North Dakota: identification guide and where to start looking

1. What types of snakes are found in North Dakota?

North Dakota has around 10 native snake species. The most frequently encountered are the prairie rattlesnake (Crotalus viridis), bullsnake (Pituophis catenifer sayi), plains garter snake (Thamnophis radix), common garter snake (Thamnophis sirtalis), western hognose snake (Heterodon nasicus), and smooth green snake (Opheodrys vernalis). You may also find the northern redbelly snake (Storeria occipitomaculata) or eastern racer (Coluber constrictor) in certain areas. Most are non-venomous and harmless to humans.

2. How can you tell a prairie rattlesnake from a bullsnake?

These two are most often confused because they share similar size and coloration. The prairie rattlesnake has a distinct rattle on its tail, a triangular head, and vertical pupils. The bullsnake, by contrast, lacks a rattle and has a round head with round pupils. When threatened, a bullsnake may hiss loudly and vibrate its tail against dry leaves, sounding like a rattle but without the true segmented rattle. Look at the tail tip: a rattlesnake's tail ends in a series of hollow, interlocking segments; a bullsnake's tail tapers to a point.

3. Where in North Dakota are you most likely to see snakes?

The best odds to see snakes in North Dakota are in the western half of the state, particularly in the badlands along the Little Missouri River, around Fort Union Trading Post, and in southwestern counties like Slope, Golden Valley, and Billings. Prairie rattlesnakes favor rocky outcrops and sagebrush flats. Garter snakes and bullsnakes are more widespread across grasslands, along river corridors, and near farm ponds. You are less likely to find snakes in the intense agricultural regions of the Red River Valley, though some garter snakes persist there. For a deeper look at North Dakota wildlife, check out our/wildlife/north-dakotahub.

See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.

4. When is the best time of year to spot snakes in North Dakota?

The prime window for snake sightings in North Dakota runs from late April through early October. Snakes emerge from hibernation in April and May, when daytime temperatures reach the 60s and 70s (F). The best activity levels occur in May and June during the warmest part of the day, and again in September as they prepare for winter. Summer heat can push them into crepuscular behavior early morning and evening. Avoid cold or rainy days snakes rarely bask then. Winter months (November to March) snakes are in brumation, often in rock crevices or rodent burrows.

5. Which snakes in North Dakota are venomous?

Only the prairie rattlesnake (Crotalus viridis) is venomous in North Dakota. It inhabits the western badlands and occasionally the Missouri River breaks. Its venom is hemotoxic, used to immobilize small rodents. Bites are rare but do occur if the snake is accidentally stepped on or cornered. Learn to identify it by the rattle, triangular head, and heat-sensing pits between the eye and nostril. All other North Dakota snakes, including bullsnakes and hognose snakes, are non-venomous and beneficial for controlling pests.

6. How do you identify a plains garter snake vs. a common garter snake?

Both species are slender, striped snakes common in moist areas. The plains garter snake (Thamnophis radix) has a bright yellow or orange stripe down the center of its back, flanked by two lighter stripes, and a distinct checkerboard pattern between the stripes. Its head is often plain olive or brown. The common garter snake (Thamnophis sirtalis) has a similar dorsal stripe but the side stripes are less defined, and the body typically shows a red or orange checkerboard along the sides. In North Dakota, the common garter snake is less abundant and mostly found in the east. For more on snake identification, visit our/animals/snakeresource page.

7. How can you show your interest in North Dakota snakes?

If you want to celebrate your snake sightings or simply enjoy the design, consider a themed t-shirt. A few options include:

### Rattlesnake Graphic T-Shirt

A bold design featuring a prairie rattlesnake coiled up. Accurate field marks make it a great conversation starter for anyone who spends time in the badlands.Check Price and Availability

### Green Viper Snake T-Shirt

A vivid green viper pattern that stands out. Not native to North Dakota, but a stylish choice for snake lovers.Check Price and Availability

Browse more snake designs at our/t-shirtspage.

### Retro Cute Snake T-Shirt

A strong match for this wildlife page and an easy next click after the guide.Check Price and Availability

8. What are common questions about snakes in North Dakota?

**Are there water moccasins in North Dakota?** No, water moccasins (cottonmouths) do not occur in North Dakota; their range is limited to the southeastern US. **Can you keep a wild snake as a pet?** It is legal to keep most non-venomous species with a fishing or hunting license, but it is recommended to leave them in the wild. **What should I do if I see a rattlesnake?** Give it space (at least 6 feet), do not try to handle it, and walk away slowly. Rattlesnakes usually retreat if not threatened. **Do snakes help farmers?** Yes, they control rodent populations and are an important part of the ecosystem. For further reading, check out our state wildlife guide:/wildlife/north-dakota.

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