FIELD GUIDES
Indiana Snakes Field Guide
Snakes of Indiana
Indiana is home to 32 native snake species, and only four are venomous. From the common garter snake in backyard gardens to the secretive timber rattlesnake of the southern hills, snakes are vital predators that keep rodent and pest populations in check. Use the guide below to identify a snake by photo, size, and region — and if you think you've found a venomous one, start with our Indiana Venomous Snakes guide.
Did you know?
Indiana is home to 32 native snake species, but only four are venomous. Despite common fears, venomous snakebites are very rare in the state.
Here's a brief overview of these four species:
Copperhead
Found mainly in the southern half of Indiana, copperheads live in rocky areas and forests, rarely extending into central and northern regions except near certain waterways like Sugar Creek.
Cottonmouth (Water Moccasin)
Considered State Endangered and likely extinct in Indiana, the last few individuals were found in Dubois County in the 1980's. They haven't been seen since, suggesting they may no longer exist in the state.
Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake
A Federally Threatened species found in the northern third of Indiana, particularly in wetlands and grassy areas. Their numbers have declined due to habitat loss, and they are now limited to scattered, declining populations in northern Indiana.
Timber Rattlesnake
State Endangered and located in south-central Indiana, mainly in the rugged forests of Brown County and adjacent areas. Their range and populations have decreased significantly, with only a few small populations remaining.
For more information about identifying and treating snake bites, check out these helpful resources:
Venomous Snake ID Guide
Treatment of Venomous Snake Bites