Snakes in Wyoming: identification guide and where to start looking
Yes, snakes are a common and diverse part of Wyoming's wildlife, with 13 species found across its plains, deserts, and mountain foothills. Identifying them requires looking for their color patterns, size, and listening for warning signs. While most are harmless, Wyoming is home to the venomous Prairie rattlesnake.
By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated July 2, 2026.
- 5
- species recorded
- June, July, May
- peak months
Real sighting data, source iNaturalist
3,459 verified observations on iNaturalist of snake have been recorded in Wyoming, most often in June, July, May.
Yes, snakes are a common and diverse part of Wyoming's wildlife, with 13 species found across its plains, deserts, and mountain foothills. Identifying them requires looking for their color patterns, size, and listening for warning signs. While most are harmless, Wyoming is home to the venomous Prairie rattlesnake.
What are the most common snake species in Wyoming?
The terrestrial garter snake is the most widespread and frequently seen species, often found near water. The Prairie rattlesnake is also common in drier regions, identifiable by its rattle and triangular head. Other species include the bullsnake, the rubber boa in forested areas, and the colorful milk snake.
Where are the best places to see snakes in Wyoming?
Look for snakes in sunny spots where they can bask, such as rock piles, edges of washes, and along the banks of rivers like the North Platte. State parks like Glendo and Guernsey offer excellent viewing opportunities. They are also common in the sagebrush steppes and foothills of the Bighorn and Teton Mountains. Check ourWyoming wildlife guidefor more ideas.
How can you tell a Prairie rattlesnake from a bullsnake?
The most reliable indicator for a rattlesnake is the rattle on the end of its tail and its broad, triangular head. Bullsnakes are larger and often mimic rattlesnakes by flattening their heads and vibrating their tails in dry leaves, but they lack the actual rattle and have a more slender head. For more identification tips, see oursnake identification guide.
What is the typical behavior of snakes in Wyoming?
Snakes are cold-blooded and spend much of their time regulating their body temperature by basking in the sun or seeking shade in burrows. They are generally shy and will move away if they detect your presence. In Wyoming, they are most active during the warmer months and are important predators of rodents and insects.
Snake-themed gifts for nature lovers
If you find the snakes of the high plains fascinating, you might enjoy these themed items for your home or as a gift.
Snake Silhouette Metal Wall Art []() A stylish and durable piece of home decor that captures the essence of the West. Perfect for a cabin or a nature-themed room. Check Price and Availability
When is the best time for snake sightings in Wyoming?
The best time to see snakes in Wyoming is from late May through early September, when the weather is warm. They are most active on sunny days, especially in the morning and evening when they are basking or moving between hunting grounds. During the long Wyoming winter, all snakes hibernate in underground dens called hibernacula.
Are there many venomous snakes in Wyoming?
The Prairie rattlesnake is the only venomous snake native to Wyoming. While they are present in many parts of the state, they are generally not aggressive and will only strike if they feel threatened or cornered. It is important to always be aware of your surroundings and give snakes plenty of space when hiking or exploring the plains.
How can I help protect Wyoming's snakes?
The most important way to help is to preserve their habitat and avoid harming them when you see them. Snakes are beneficial animals that help control rodent populations. Educating others about their role in the environment can also help reduce the fear that often leads to negative encounters.
What do snakes eat in Wyoming?
Wyoming's snakes have a varied diet depending on the species. Bullsnakes and rattlesnakes primarily eat rodents like mice and ground squirrels. Garter snakes focus on frogs, toads, and small fish. Smaller species like the rubber boa focus on small mammals and insects found in the forest floor or rocky areas.
Gear and field guides
Frequently asked questions
What are the most common snake species in Wyoming?+
The terrestrial garter snake is the most widespread and frequently seen species, often found near water. The Prairie rattlesnake is also common in drier regions, identifiable by its rattle and triangular head. Other species include the bullsnake, the rubber boa in forested areas, and the colorful milk snake.
Where are the best places to see snakes in Wyoming?+
Look for snakes in sunny spots where they can bask, such as rock piles, edges of washes, and along the banks of rivers like the North Platte. State parks like Glendo and Guernsey offer excellent viewing opportunities. They are also common in the sagebrush steppes and foothills of the Bighorn and Teton Mountains. Check ourWyoming wildlife guidefor more ideas.
How can you tell a Prairie rattlesnake from a bullsnake?+
The most reliable indicator for a rattlesnake is the rattle on the end of its tail and its broad, triangular head. Bullsnakes are larger and often mimic rattlesnakes by flattening their heads and vibrating their tails in dry leaves, but they lack the actual rattle and have a more slender head. For more identification tips, see oursnake identification guide.
What is the typical behavior of snakes in Wyoming?+
Snakes are cold-blooded and spend much of their time regulating their body temperature by basking in the sun or seeking shade in burrows. They are generally shy and will move away if they detect your presence. In Wyoming, they are most active during the warmer months and are important predators of rodents and insects.
When is the best time for snake sightings in Wyoming?+
The best time to see snakes in Wyoming is from late May through early September, when the weather is warm. They are most active on sunny days, especially in the morning and evening when they are basking or moving between hunting grounds. During the long Wyoming winter, all snakes hibernate in underground dens called hibernacula.
Are there many venomous snakes in Wyoming?+
The Prairie rattlesnake is the only venomous snake native to Wyoming. While they are present in many parts of the state, they are generally not aggressive and will only strike if they feel threatened or cornered. It is important to always be aware of your surroundings and give snakes plenty of space when hiking or exploring the plains.
How can I help protect Wyoming's snakes?+
The most important way to help is to preserve their habitat and avoid harming them when you see them. Snakes are beneficial animals that help control rodent populations. Educating others about their role in the environment can also help reduce the fear that often leads to negative encounters.
What do snakes eat in Wyoming?+
Wyoming's snakes have a varied diet depending on the species. Bullsnakes and rattlesnakes primarily eat rodents like mice and ground squirrels. Garter snakes focus on frogs, toads, and small fish. Smaller species like the rubber boa focus on small mammals and insects found in the forest floor or rocky areas.
Keep exploring
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