BELLINGHAM — There are eight common species of snakes you might encounter in Washington and, while they bite and constrict prey, not all of them are venomous.
You’re more likely to find snakes spring into fall in Washington. They hibernate in winter.
Snakes are “one of nature’s most efficient predators,” and it’s recommended you leave them alone and view at a distance regardless of species, according to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.
One venomous snake
Washington is home to many snake species across its many habitats, but these snake species are the most common, according to Fish and Wildlife:
Washington only has one species of venomous snake, the Western rattlesnake, but the other species still pose a threat.
The Western rattlesnake is common in Eastern Washington and can be distinguished by its triangular-shaped head, rattles on its tail and diamond-shaped pattern on its back. The snakes typically range between 18 inches and 4 feet long.
Western rattlesnakes’ venom stuns or kills their prey such as mice, squirrels, rabbits, woodrats and marmots. The rattlesnakes use their hollow fangs to inject venom and sometimes lose their fangs by embedding them into their prey.
Western rattlesnakes do not view humans as prey and typically do not bite unless they are threatened. Their fangs rarely have enough venom to kill a human but commonly cause painful swelling and discoloration.
Common snakes
Washington is also home to three species of garter snakes, some of the most common snakes across the state.
Garter snakes can bite or strike humans if they feel threatened. Small garter snakes eat prey such as slugs and earthworms, but larger garter snakes eat birds, fish, amphibians and rodents.
The common garter snake species is often found in mountainous areas, along coasts, close to water or in gardens. Common garter snakes have bright blue, yellow and green stripes across their backs.
The Western terrestrial garter snake species is common in most habitats but spends a lot of time in water. These snakes are typically gray-brown or black with a checkered pattern and yellow stripes down their backs.
The Northwestern garter snake is the most frequently encountered garter snake and usually lives in coastal and mountainous areas, but are commonly found in city parks and suburban areas.
Another common snake species in Washington is the gopher snake, which kills its prey by constricting it. At 3- to 4-feet long, this snake is often mistaken for a rattlesnake because of its tan color. It is typically found in warm, dry habitats.
Racer snakes are also common in warm, dry and brushy areas of Washington and are known for their extremely fast speed. Racer snakes are typically brown or olive in color with a pale yellow belly and are able to climb into shrubs or other plants while hunting for prey.
Rubber boa snakes are one of the smallest species, only measuring 14 to 30 inches long. Their olive green, reddish-brown or tan skin looks rubbery and they are typically found in damp wooded, sandy or grassy areas.
How to view snakes
Snakes should be left alone and viewed at a distance according to Fish and Wildlife, but if you come across a snake, here are a few guidelines:
- Snakes usually only hiss, bite or strike when they feel threatened, so be sure to stay calm while near a snake.
- Do not try to capture a snake, or keep it as a pet. Relocating a snake often results in their quick escape and possible death on roads or by predators.
- Be aware of snakes on trails, roads and concrete surfaces that keep them warm.
- If a snake gets into a building, stay calm and try to use a broom or other long pole to herd it outside. To avoid snakes in your home, fill in any holes and cracks along the ground level and seal the bottoms of doors.
- If you find a rattlesnake, move away immediately. If you are too close, the rattlesnake will coil and rattle and may strike.
