17 Snakes Found In New York With Pictures

When you hear the name, New York most likely you’re thinking of the city and its urban environment. However, most of this Mid-Atlantic state consists of various ecosystems that make ideal habitats for snakes, 17 to be exact. It may surprise you to learn that the tally also includes three venomous snakes in New York and two state-endangered species. However, all snakes are protected animals in the state. That means that you can’t capture or trap wild specimens. Even wildlife control officers have to have a permit to do their job. However, many species are captive-bred and found in pet stores.

17 Snakes Found in New York

1. Eastern Hognose Snake Image Credit By: Nathan A Shepard, Shutterstock

Species: Heterodon platirhinos

Longevity: Up to 7 years

Good to own as a pet?: No

Legal to own?: Yes (captive-bred)

Adult size: Up to 24”

Diet: Carnivorous

The most interesting thing about the Eastern Hognose Snake is its behavior to avoid predation. It will puff out the sides of its head to resemble a cobra. If that doesn’t work, it’ll play dead. This species feeds on various animals, from birds to fish to frogs. It’s also unique because it is immune to the toxins that toads secrete. This snake is mildly venomous to humans.

2. Eastern Rat Snake Image Credit: samray, Shutterstock

Species: Pantherophis alleghaniensis

Longevity: 6 years

Good to own as a pet?: No

Legal to own?: Yes (captive-bred)

Adult size: Up to 6’

Diet: Carnivorous

The Eastern Rat Snake is the state’s longest snake. They live all along the east coast and west into the Central Plains. They live in a variety of habitats, particularly dry meadows and forests. It has a diverse diet that includes amphibians, rodents, and birds. This species is unique in that it will constrict its prey like a boa to subdue it.

3. Eastern Ribbon Snake

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A post shared by Hayley Layne Crowell🐍🧬🎸 (@hylacrowe)

Species: Thamnophis sauritus

Longevity: Up to 10 years

Good to own as a pet?: No

Legal to own?: Yes (captive-bred)

Adult size: Up to 3’

Diet: Carnivorous

The Eastern Ribbon Snake has a large range that extends north into Canada and west to the Mississippi River. It prefers to live by water with aquatic wildlife its prey. It is a quick-moving animal that uses this trait to its advantage to hunt for food. It also helps the snake avoid predators, such as raccoons and hawks.

4. Northern Black Racer Image Credit: Jeff Holcombe, Shutterstock

Species: Coluber constrictor

Longevity: Up to 10 years

Good to own as a pet?: No

Legal to own?: No

Adult size: Up to 5’

Diet: Carnivorous

The Northern Black Racer is another speedy snake that makes good use of it to eat and avoid being eaten. They occupy a wide range of habitats, from wetlands to meadows. While it is non-venomous, its bite can cause serious injuries. They are shy animals that will generally avoid humans. Although its scientific name refers to constrictors, it is a misnomer.

5. Milk Snake Image Credit: reptiles4all, Shutterstock

Species: Lampropeltis triangulum

Longevity: Up to 20 years

Good to own as a pet?: Yes

Legal to own?: Yes (captive bred)

Adult size: 24 – 36″

Diet: Carnivorous

The Milk Snake may look like a Coral Snake, but this species is harmless to humans. You may see it called the Scarlet Snake in reference to this likeness. This reptile prefers edge habitat, whether it’s prairies, woodlands, or farm fields. It’s a secretive animal that you are unlikely to see during the day. They have a larger geographic range than you’d expect for a snake.

6. Northern Brown Snake

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Species: Storeria dekayi

Longevity: Up to 7 years

Good to own as a pet?: Yes

Legal to own?: Yes (captive bred)

Adult size: 9 – 13”

Diet: Carnivorous

The Northern Brown Snake is another widespread species that you can find even in southern Canada. Its small size allows it to find hiding places to escape predation. It also affects its behavior, prompting this reptile to adopt a nocturnal lifestyle. While it eats a lot of different foods, it is especially adept at eating snails.

7. Northern Ringneck Snake

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A post shared by Ryan Van Meter (@ryanvanmeter.wild)

Species: Diadophis punctatus

Longevity: Up to 20 years

Good to own as a pet?: No

Legal to own?: Yes (captive bred)

Adult size: 10 – 15”

Diet: Carnivorous

The Northern Ringneck Snake is a weather-tolerant species that you find living in Mexico to Canada. It prefers woodland and wetland habitats that offer plenty of cover. It is an appropriately named animal, referring to its distinctive band around the base of its head. It is an egglayer that makes no investment in its offspring. They are a popular snake among reptile enthusiasts.

8. Northern Water Snake

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A post shared by Nick Williams (@nicholas.e.williams)

Species: Nerodia sipedon

Longevity: Up to 9 years

Good to own as a pet?: No

Legal to own?: Yes (captive bred)

Adult size: 24 – 36″

Diet: Carnivorous

The Northern Water Snake is one of the true water snakes of New York. It is an aggressive species that won’t hesitate to bite if disturbed. While they may hang out together, these snakes are solitary for the most part. While they feed on aquatic wildlife, they will also take the occasional rodent or bird. While nonvenomous, you can get a nasty infection if bit by this reptile.

9. Queen Snake

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A post shared by Christian Carey (@ccherpsnj)

Species: Regina septemvittata

Longevity: Up to 19 years

Good to own as a pet?: No

Legal to own?: No

Adult size: Up to 3’

Diet: Carnivorous

The Queen Snake prefers watery environments, like the previous species. It is a diurnal animal that you’re likely to see in areas where it is abundant throughout the year. Crayfish are its primary prey, although it will also other aquatic organisms. As you may expect, this diet preference leaves it vulnerable. It is a state-endangered species in New York.

10. Smooth Green Snake Image Credit: Kristian Bell, Shutterstock

Species: Opheodrys vernalis

Longevity: Up to 6 years

Good to own as a pet?: Yes

Legal to own?: Yes (captive bred)

Adult size: 12 – 24”

Diet: Insect eater

The Smooth Green Snake is unique in that it’s a Nearc­tic species that lives only in North America. It prefers the habitats that its name suggests. That’s a good thing since it provides excellent camouflage. They feed on insects with the occasional amphibian. While the species is widespread, it is vulnerable to negative environmental pressures.

11. Eastern Worm Snake

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Species: Carphophis amoenus

Longevity: Unknown

Good to own as a pet?: No

Legal to own?: Yes

Adult size: Up to 13”

Diet: Carnivorous

The Eastern Worm Snake is a creature of the forest. New York marks the northernmost reach of its range in the United States. It is a docile animal but will defend itself when necessary. Its name speaks to its primary prey, earthworms. Thus, it’s a secretive species that you’re not likely to see often. It is a vulnerable snake in the state.

12. Common Garter Snake Image Credit: PublicDomainImages, Pixabay

Species: Thamnophis sirtalis

Longevity: Up to 20 years

Good to own as a pet?: Yes

Legal to own?: Yes (captive bred)

Adult size: Up to 36”

Diet: Generalist

The Common Garter Snake is another Nearc­tic species. You’ll find this snake throughout the eastern part of the continent. The reptile is quite adaptable, which has influenced its evolutionary success. It is also a generalist when it comes to feeding. It can find food wherever it ends up living, whether it’s in a ditch, wetlands, or damp forest.

13. Eastern Garter Snake

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Species: Thamnophis sirtalis sirtalis

Longevity: Up to 20 years

Good to own as a pet?: Yes

Legal to own?: Yes (captive bred)

Adult size: Up to 26”

Diet: Generalist

The Eastern Garter Snake is a subspecies of the common variety. Like its namesake, it is an abundant reptile that adapts to a variety of habitats, including human dwellings. Their diet is more specialized, feeding primarily on amphibians and earthworms. However, it will take what it can find, which is another factor in its favor.

14. Northern Redbelly Snake

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Species: Storeria occipitomaculata

Longevity: 4 years

Good to own as a pet?: Yes

Legal to own?: Yes (captive bred)

Adult size: 8–10”

Diet: Usually gas­tropods

The Northern Redbelly Snake is another widespread woodland species that fits in well with the ecosystems of New York. It prefers to hide instead of basking out in the open. That’s due in part to its small size, which makes it vulnerable to predations. While it’s usually diurnal, it can change its habits to fit the weather conditions and become nocturnal.

15. Eastern Copperhead

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A post shared by Jay Eubanks 🐍 (@green_snake_education)

Species: Agkistrodon contortix

Longevity: Up to 20 years

Good to own as a pet?: No

Legal to own?: No

Adult size: Up to 30”

Diet: Carnivorous

The Eastern Copperhead is the first of three venomous species in New York. Fortunately, it is uncommon. While juveniles feed on insects, adults have a broader diet that includes rodents. You’ll find this snake—hopefully, not—along streams and in forests. Its name refers to its bands, which offer excellent camouflage. It is not an aggressive animal but will defend itself when necessary.

16. Timber Rattlesnake Image Credit: Paul Staniszewski, Shutterstock

Species: Crotalus horridus

Longevity: Up to 30+ years

Good to own as a pet?: No

Legal to own?: No

Adult size: Up to 4’

Diet: Carnivorous

The Timber Rattlesnake differs from many reptiles because of its parental investment in its young. It’s likely a function of its long lifespan. They are nomadic and will travel to summer hunting areas. They detect their warm-blooded prey with their pit or­gans. Populations of this species are stable throughout its range. However, it is vulnerable to habitat encroachment.

17. Eastern Massasauga

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Species: Sistrurus catenatus

Longevity: Up to 20 years

Good to own as a pet?: No

Legal to own?: Yes

Adult size: Up to 30”

Diet: Carnivorous

The Eastern Massasauga is yet again another Nearc­tic species. It is relatively short compared to other related snakes. It is a wetland species that prefers several different types of this habitat, such as swamps and marshes. It is another pit viper that is adapted to feeding on warm-blooded animals. It can also harm humans with its venom. Fortunately, it isn’t an aggressive snake.

Conclusion New York has an interesting collection of snakes that includes ones you’ll see east of the Mississippi River and a few unusual ones. That’s part of what makes these animals so fascinating. There are also three venomous snakes in New York. While they are uncommon, it still behooves you to be able to identify them. Luckily, they’ll give you a wide berth.

Featured Image Credit: cubialpha, Pixabay

When you hear the name, New York most likely you’re thinking of the city and its urban environment. However, most of this Mid-Atlantic state consists of various ecosystems that make ideal habitats for snakes, 17 to be exact. It may surprise you to learn that the tally also includes three venomous snakes in New York and two state-endangered species.

However, all snakes are protected animals in the state. That means that you can’t capture or trap wild specimens. Even wildlife control officers have to have a permit to do their job. However, many species are captive-bred and found in pet stores.

17 Snakes Found in New York

1. Eastern Hognose Snake

Species: Heterodon platirhinos

Longevity: Up to 7 years

Good to own as a pet?: No

Legal to own?: Yes (captive-bred)

Adult size: Up to 24”

Diet: Carnivorous

The most interesting thing about the Eastern Hognose Snake is its behavior to avoid predation. It will puff out the sides of its head to resemble a cobra. If that doesn’t work, it’ll play dead. This species feeds on various animals, from birds to fish to frogs. It’s also unique because it is immune to the toxins that toads secrete. This snake is mildly venomous to humans.

2. Eastern Rat Snake

Species: Pantherophis alleghaniensis

Longevity: 6 years

Good to own as a pet?: No

Legal to own?: Yes (captive-bred)

Adult size: Up to 6’

Diet: Carnivorous

The Eastern Rat Snake is the state’s longest snake. They live all along the east coast and west into the Central Plains. They live in a variety of habitats, particularly dry meadows and forests. It has a diverse diet that includes amphibians, rodents, and birds. This species is unique in that it will constrict its prey like a boa to subdue it.

3. Eastern Ribbon Snake

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Hayley Layne Crowell🐍🧬🎸 (@hylacrowe)

Species: Thamnophis sauritus

Longevity: Up to 10 years

Good to own as a pet?: No

Legal to own?: Yes (captive-bred)

Adult size: Up to 3’

Diet: Carnivorous

The Eastern Ribbon Snake has a large range that extends north into Canada and west to the Mississippi River. It prefers to live by water with aquatic wildlife its prey. It is a quick-moving animal that uses this trait to its advantage to hunt for food. It also helps the snake avoid predators, such as raccoons and hawks.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Hayley Layne Crowell🐍🧬🎸 (@hylacrowe)

A post shared by Hayley Layne Crowell🐍🧬🎸 (@hylacrowe)

View this post on Instagram

View this post on Instagram

4. Northern Black Racer

Species: Coluber constrictor

Longevity: Up to 10 years

Good to own as a pet?: No

Legal to own?: No

Adult size: Up to 5’

Diet: Carnivorous

The Northern Black Racer is another speedy snake that makes good use of it to eat and avoid being eaten. They occupy a wide range of habitats, from wetlands to meadows. While it is non-venomous, its bite can cause serious injuries. They are shy animals that will generally avoid humans. Although its scientific name refers to constrictors, it is a misnomer.

5. Milk Snake

Species: Lampropeltis triangulum

Longevity: Up to 20 years

Good to own as a pet?: Yes

Legal to own?: Yes (captive bred)

Adult size: 24 – 36″

Diet: Carnivorous

The Milk Snake may look like a Coral Snake, but this species is harmless to humans. You may see it called the Scarlet Snake in reference to this likeness. This reptile prefers edge habitat, whether it’s prairies, woodlands, or farm fields. It’s a secretive animal that you are unlikely to see during the day. They have a larger geographic range than you’d expect for a snake.

6. Northern Brown Snake

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ryan Wagner (@ryanbwagner)

Species: Storeria dekayi

Longevity: Up to 7 years

Good to own as a pet?: Yes

Legal to own?: Yes (captive bred)

Adult size: 9 – 13”

Diet: Carnivorous

The Northern Brown Snake is another widespread species that you can find even in southern Canada. Its small size allows it to find hiding places to escape predation. It also affects its behavior, prompting this reptile to adopt a nocturnal lifestyle. While it eats a lot of different foods, it is especially adept at eating snails.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ryan Wagner (@ryanbwagner)

A post shared by Ryan Wagner (@ryanbwagner)

7. Northern Ringneck Snake

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A post shared by Ryan Van Meter (@ryanvanmeter.wild)

Species: Diadophis punctatus

Longevity: Up to 20 years

Good to own as a pet?: No

Legal to own?: Yes (captive bred)

Adult size: 10 – 15”

Diet: Carnivorous

The Northern Ringneck Snake is a weather-tolerant species that you find living in Mexico to Canada. It prefers woodland and wetland habitats that offer plenty of cover. It is an appropriately named animal, referring to its distinctive band around the base of its head. It is an egglayer that makes no investment in its offspring. They are a popular snake among reptile enthusiasts.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ryan Van Meter (@ryanvanmeter.wild)

A post shared by Ryan Van Meter (@ryanvanmeter.wild)

8. Northern Water Snake

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A post shared by Nick Williams (@nicholas.e.williams)

Species: Nerodia sipedon

Longevity: Up to 9 years

Good to own as a pet?: No

Legal to own?: Yes (captive bred)

Adult size: 24 – 36″

Diet: Carnivorous

The Northern Water Snake is one of the true water snakes of New York. It is an aggressive species that won’t hesitate to bite if disturbed. While they may hang out together, these snakes are solitary for the most part. While they feed on aquatic wildlife, they will also take the occasional rodent or bird. While nonvenomous, you can get a nasty infection if bit by this reptile.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Nick Williams (@nicholas.e.williams)

A post shared by Nick Williams (@nicholas.e.williams)

9. Queen Snake

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A post shared by Christian Carey (@ccherpsnj)

Species: Regina septemvittata

Longevity: Up to 19 years

Good to own as a pet?: No

Legal to own?: No

Adult size: Up to 3’

Diet: Carnivorous

The Queen Snake prefers watery environments, like the previous species. It is a diurnal animal that you’re likely to see in areas where it is abundant throughout the year. Crayfish are its primary prey, although it will also other aquatic organisms. As you may expect, this diet preference leaves it vulnerable. It is a state-endangered species in New York.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Christian Carey (@ccherpsnj)

A post shared by Christian Carey (@ccherpsnj)

10. Smooth Green Snake

Species: Opheodrys vernalis

Longevity: Up to 6 years

Good to own as a pet?: Yes

Legal to own?: Yes (captive bred)

Adult size: 12 – 24”

Diet: Insect eater

The Smooth Green Snake is unique in that it’s a Nearc­tic species that lives only in North America. It prefers the habitats that its name suggests. That’s a good thing since it provides excellent camouflage. They feed on insects with the occasional amphibian. While the species is widespread, it is vulnerable to negative environmental pressures.

11. Eastern Worm Snake

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Species: Carphophis amoenus

Longevity: Unknown

Good to own as a pet?: No

Legal to own?: Yes

Adult size: Up to 13”

Diet: Carnivorous

The Eastern Worm Snake is a creature of the forest. New York marks the northernmost reach of its range in the United States. It is a docile animal but will defend itself when necessary. Its name speaks to its primary prey, earthworms. Thus, it’s a secretive species that you’re not likely to see often. It is a vulnerable snake in the state.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Virginia Herpetology (@herpetology_va)

A post shared by Virginia Herpetology (@herpetology_va)

12. Common Garter Snake

Species: Thamnophis sirtalis

Longevity: Up to 20 years

Good to own as a pet?: Yes

Legal to own?: Yes (captive bred)

Adult size: Up to 36”

Diet: Generalist

The Common Garter Snake is another Nearc­tic species. You’ll find this snake throughout the eastern part of the continent. The reptile is quite adaptable, which has influenced its evolutionary success. It is also a generalist when it comes to feeding. It can find food wherever it ends up living, whether it’s in a ditch, wetlands, or damp forest.

13. Eastern Garter Snake

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A post shared by Tony Ward (@phelge123)

Species: Thamnophis sirtalis sirtalis

Longevity: Up to 20 years

Good to own as a pet?: Yes

Legal to own?: Yes (captive bred)

Adult size: Up to 26”

Diet: Generalist

The Eastern Garter Snake is a subspecies of the common variety. Like its namesake, it is an abundant reptile that adapts to a variety of habitats, including human dwellings. Their diet is more specialized, feeding primarily on amphibians and earthworms. However, it will take what it can find, which is another factor in its favor.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Tony Ward (@phelge123)

A post shared by Tony Ward (@phelge123)

14. Northern Redbelly Snake

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A post shared by Loopy (@il_mayne)

Species: Storeria occipitomaculata

Longevity: 4 years

Good to own as a pet?: Yes

Legal to own?: Yes (captive bred)

Adult size: 8–10”

Diet: Usually gas­tropods

The Northern Redbelly Snake is another widespread woodland species that fits in well with the ecosystems of New York. It prefers to hide instead of basking out in the open. That’s due in part to its small size, which makes it vulnerable to predations. While it’s usually diurnal, it can change its habits to fit the weather conditions and become nocturnal.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Loopy (@il_mayne)

A post shared by Loopy (@il_mayne)

15. Eastern Copperhead

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A post shared by Jay Eubanks 🐍 (@green_snake_education)

Species: Agkistrodon contortix

Longevity: Up to 20 years

Good to own as a pet?: No

Legal to own?: No

Adult size: Up to 30”

Diet: Carnivorous

The Eastern Copperhead is the first of three venomous species in New York. Fortunately, it is uncommon. While juveniles feed on insects, adults have a broader diet that includes rodents. You’ll find this snake—hopefully, not—along streams and in forests. Its name refers to its bands, which offer excellent camouflage. It is not an aggressive animal but will defend itself when necessary.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jay Eubanks 🐍 (@green_snake_education)

A post shared by Jay Eubanks 🐍 (@green_snake_education)

16. Timber Rattlesnake

Species: Crotalus horridus

Longevity: Up to 30+ years

Good to own as a pet?: No

Legal to own?: No

Adult size: Up to 4’

Diet: Carnivorous

The Timber Rattlesnake differs from many reptiles because of its parental investment in its young. It’s likely a function of its long lifespan. They are nomadic and will travel to summer hunting areas. They detect their warm-blooded prey with their pit or­gans. Populations of this species are stable throughout its range. However, it is vulnerable to habitat encroachment.

17. Eastern Massasauga

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Species: Sistrurus catenatus

Longevity: Up to 20 years

Good to own as a pet?: No

Legal to own?: Yes

Adult size: Up to 30”

Diet: Carnivorous

The Eastern Massasauga is yet again another Nearc­tic species. It is relatively short compared to other related snakes. It is a wetland species that prefers several different types of this habitat, such as swamps and marshes. It is another pit viper that is adapted to feeding on warm-blooded animals. It can also harm humans with its venom. Fortunately, it isn’t an aggressive snake.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by U.S. Assoc. of Reptile Keepers (@usark_official)

A post shared by U.S. Assoc. of Reptile Keepers (@usark_official)

Conclusion

New York has an interesting collection of snakes that includes ones you’ll see east of the Mississippi River and a few unusual ones. That’s part of what makes these animals so fascinating. There are also three venomous snakes in New York. While they are uncommon, it still behooves you to be able to identify them. Luckily, they’ll give you a wide berth.

Featured Image Credit: cubialpha, Pixabay