Snakes in Arizona: 54 Types and How to Identify Them

Arizona is one of the best snake states in the U.S. Warm desert floors, rocky foothills, grassland valleys, riparian canyons, and sky island forests all give snakes different places to hunt, hide, and avoid the heat.

This guide profiles 54 Arizona snakes. It starts with the venomous species readers most often want to recognize, then moves through boas, racers, kingsnakes, gartersnakes, sand specialists, night snakes, and other nonvenomous species.

Use the guide as a practical ID resource, not a reason to handle wildlife. A safer identification starts with distance, a photo if you can take one without moving closer, the county or habitat, and visible field marks such as body shape, bands, stripes, blotches, head shape, and tail pattern. For a broader primer, see our guide to types of snakes.

Venomous snakes in Arizona

Arizona has 14 venomous snakes in this guide: the Sonoran Coralsnake plus 13 rattlesnakes. If you are not sure what you are looking at, give the snake space and leave it alone.

1. Sonoran Coralsnake

The Sonoran Coralsnake (Micruroides euryxanthus) is a venomous coralsnake. In Arizona, it is found across most of southern Arizona below 6,000′ elevation. Adults are small, slender; up to 615 mm (24″) in total length.

For field ID, look for brightly colored rings of red, yellow/cream, and black that encircle the body; red bands touch yellow bands; black snout. Typical habitat ranges from desert scrub (Sonoran, Mohave, Chihuahuan) to semidesert grassland and lower woodlands.

Primarily nocturnal or crepuscular, but can be active at any time under favorable conditions. Feeds primarily on other ectotherms, including small snakes (threadsnakes, groundsnakes, black-headed snakes) and occasionally small lizards. Because this snake is venomous, give it plenty of room and do not handle it.

2. Western Diamond-backed Rattlesnake

The Western Diamond-backed Rattlesnake (Crotalus atrox) is a venomous rattlesnake. In Arizona, it is found across all of southern and most of western Arizona. Adults are Arizona’s largest rattlesnake and can reach up to 1,676 mm (66 inches) in total length.

For field ID, look for gray or tan, often with pinkish, rust, or orange hues on the posterior; large, dark-edged, diamond-shaped blotches along the back, often outlined in cream or pale gray. Typical habitat includes Sonoran, Chihuahuan, and Mohave desert scrub, semidesert grassland, and lower reaches of interior chaparral and Madrean evergreen woodland.

Because this snake is venomous, give it plenty of room and do not handle it.

3. Sidewinder

The Sidewinder (Crotalus cerastes) is a venomous rattlesnake. In Arizona, it is found in the low deserts of western and southwestern Arizona (sea level to 2,800’). Adults are small, reaching up to 628 mm (25 inches) in total length.

For field ID, look for tan, pinkish-tan, cream, or light gray body; brown or gray-brown blotches; enlarged upturned horn-like scales above the eyes; sidewinding tracks in loose sand. Typical habitat includes Mohave and Sonoran desert scrub, especially open sandy or loamy flats, creosotebush areas, and dune fields.

Nocturnal and crepuscular in summer; diurnal or crepuscular during cooler spring weather. Ambushes lizards, mice, birds, and other snakes. Because this snake is venomous, give it plenty of room and do not handle it.

4. Mohave Rattlesnake

The Mohave Rattlesnake (Crotalus scutulatus) is a venomous rattlesnake. In Arizona, it is found across most of western and southern Arizona. Adults are large, reaching up to 1,270 mm (50 inches) in total length.

For field ID, look for tan, olive, or gray-brown body with dark-edged blotches; tail rings narrower than the pale spaces; thin light stripe from the eye to beyond the mouth. Typical habitat includes Sonoran, Mohave, and Chihuahuan desert scrub, semidesert grassland, creosotebush flats, low valleys, bajadas, and rolling foothills.

Primarily nocturnal, with crepuscular activity during moderate weather. Feeds on rats, mice, lizards, birds, and frogs. Because this snake is venomous, give it plenty of room and do not handle it.

5. Tiger Rattlesnake

The Tiger Rattlesnake (Crotalus tigris) is a venomous rattlesnake. In Arizona, it is found in central, south-central, and extreme southeastern Arizona. Adults are medium-sized; up to 885 mm (35 inches) in total length (excluding rattle).

For field ID, look for highly variable, typically blue-gray or orange-brown.

Feeds primarily on mice, small mammals, and lizards. Because this snake is venomous, give it plenty of room and do not handle it.

6. Black-tailed Rattlesnake

The Black-tailed Rattlesnake (Crotalus molossus) is a venomous rattlesnake. In Arizona, it is found across nearly all of southern Arizona; absent from the northeastern plateau. Adults are large, reaching up to 1,219 mm (48 inches) in total length (excluding the rattle).

For field ID, look for heavy body, dark tail, and broad mountain-to-desert range across southern Arizona. Typical habitat includes Diverse biotic communities, ranging from Sonoran desert scrub to Petran subalpine Conifer Forest.

Feeds on mice, rats, rabbits, birds, and lizards. Because this snake is venomous, give it plenty of room and do not handle it.

7. Speckled Rattlesnake

The Speckled Rattlesnake (Crotalus mitchellii) is a venomous rattlesnake. Its Arizona range includes western and southwestern Arizona. Adults are large, reaching up to 1,295 mm (51″) in total length (excluding the rattle).

For field ID, look for color that ranges from rusty tan, pinkish-brown, and peach to off-white, pale gray, or blue-gray; markings often match the local rock substrate. Typical habitat includes Sonoran and Mohave desert scrub, interior chaparral, and Great Basin conifer woodland.

Feeds on mice, rats, Chuckwalla lizards, smaller lizards, and birds. Because this snake is venomous, give it plenty of room and do not handle it.

8. Arizona Black Rattlesnake

The Arizona Black Rattlesnake (Crotalus cerberus) is a venomous rattlesnake. Its Arizona range includes central mountains of Arizona, extending from the Colorado River in the northwest, along the Mogollon Rim, through the White Mountains, and into the Pinaleño, Galiuro, Santa Catalin. Adults are medium to large; up to 1,062 mm (42”) in length (excluding rattle).

For field ID, look for dark gray-brown to black with black blotches.

Primarily diurnal, but can be active at any time under favorable conditions. Its diet includes rats, squirrels, mice, lizards, and birds. Because this snake is venomous, give it plenty of room and do not handle it.

9. Rock Rattlesnake

The Rock Rattlesnake (Crotalus lepidus) is a venomous rattlesnake. In Arizona, it is found in the “sky island” mountain ranges of southeastern Arizona (e.g., Chiricahua, Peloncillo, Dragoon, Whetstone, Santa Rita, Huachucas, and Canelos). Adults reach up to 840 mm (33”) in total length (excluding rattle).

For field ID, look for small rock-colored rattlesnake profile and sky island mountain range. Typical habitat includes Madrean evergreen woodland and Petran montane conifer forest.

Primarily diurnal, but can be active at any time of day or night if conditions are favorable. Feeds on centipedes, lizards, small rodents, and birds. Because this snake is venomous, give it plenty of room and do not handle it.

10. Western Rattlesnake

The Western Rattlesnake (Crotalus oreganus) is a venomous rattlesnake. In Arizona, it is found in extreme northwestern Arizona, including the Arizona Strip (north of the Colorado River), the upper Grand Canyon, Marble Canyon, and Glen Canyon. Adults are medium to large; up to 1,650 mm (63″) in total length (excluding rattle).

For field ID, look for a broad triangular head, slender neck, and vertically elliptical pupils.

It feeds primarily on rats, mice, squirrels, lizards, and birds. Because this snake is venomous, give it plenty of room and do not handle it.

11. Twin-spotted Rattlesnake

The Twin-spotted Rattlesnake (Crotalus pricei) is a venomous rattlesnake. In Arizona, it is found in the “sky island” mountain ranges of southeastern Arizona, specifically the Chiricahua, Pinaleño, Huachuca, and Santa Rita ranges. Adults reach up to 660 mm (26″) in total length (excluding rattle).

For field ID, look for small mountain rattlesnake profile, paired dorsal blotches when visible, and high-elevation sky island habitat. Typical habitat includes Petran subalpine and montane conifer forests.

Often seen basking on rock slides during mid-morning. It eats lizards, small rodents, and birds. Because this snake is venomous, give it plenty of room and do not handle it.

12. Prairie Rattlesnake

The Prairie Rattlesnake (Crotalus viridis) is a venomous rattlesnake. Its Arizona range includes northeastern Arizona, specifically plateaus south and east of the Colorado River. Adults ranges from 700 mm (28″) to 1,620 mm (64″) in total length (excluding rattle).

For field ID, look for broad, triangular shape with vertically elliptical pupils; large, dark dorsal blotches (often thin-edged in white) with two rows of smaller lateral blotches.

It eats mice, small mammals, birds, and lizards. Because this snake is venomous, give it plenty of room and do not handle it.

13. Ridge-nosed Rattlesnake

The Ridge-nosed Rattlesnake (Crotalus willardi) is a venomous rattlesnake. In Arizona, it is found in “sky island” mountain ranges of southeastern Arizona. Adults are small, reaching up to 668 mm (26 inches) excluding the rattle.

For field ID, look for a ridge of upturned scales along the top edge of the snout between the nostrils. Typical habitat includes Madrean evergreen woodland or Petran montane conifer forest, especially areas with abundant canopy cover and leaf litter near drainages.

Primarily diurnal, occasionally crepuscular or nocturnal at lower elevations. Feeds primarily on lizards, mice, and centipedes; occasionally birds and scorpions. Because this snake is venomous, give it plenty of room and do not handle it.

14. Massasauga

The Massasauga (Sistrurus catenatus) is a venomous rattlesnake. In Arizona, it is currently limited to a few isolated populations in the extreme southeastern portion of the state. Adults are small, reaching up to 550 mm (22”) in length (excluding the rattle).

For field ID, look for a broad triangular head with large, plate-like scales on top. Typical habitat includes valleys, low sloping bajadas, and rolling grass-covered hills within the semidesert grassland community.

Primarily nocturnal, though occasionally seen during the day on overcast days, mornings, or at sunset. It eats lizards, centipedes, mice, and other small mammals. Because this snake is venomous, give it plenty of room and do not handle it.

Nonvenomous snakes in Arizona

Most Arizona snakes are not venomous. Many still look similar at a glance, so habitat, body build, color pattern, and location are usually more useful than a single field mark.

Boas and desert constrictors

15. Rosy Boa

The Rosy Boa (Lichanura trivirgata) is a nonvenomous boa. In Arizona, it is found in western, southwestern, and south-central Arizona. Adults are medium-sized, up to 950 mm (37″) in total length.

For field ID, look for heavy-bodied with smooth scales; three wide, dark stripes (brown, black, orange, or reddish-brown) on a light background. Typical habitat includes Sonoran desert scrub, Mohave desert scrub, and interior chaparral.

Primarily nocturnal and crepuscular, though they may be active on spring mornings or overcast days. A powerful constrictor that feeds on small mammals and birds. Observe it without picking it up or moving it by hand.

Fast desert hunters

16. Brown Vinesnake

The Brown Vinesnake (Oxybelis aeneus) is a nonvenomous slender, tree-climbing snake. Its range extends from South America through Mexico into extreme south-central Arizona. Adults are very long and slender, reaching up to 1,620 mm (60 inches) in total length.

For field ID, look for exceptionally thin, vine-like body; gray, silver-gray, or copper color; short dark dash-like markings; narrow pointed head; dark line through the eye. Typical habitat includes Madrean evergreen woodland and upper semidesert grassland, especially trees, low shrubs, and dense canyon vegetation.

Primarily diurnal and an excellent climber. Feeds mainly on lizards, with frogs, fish, and insects also taken. Watch it from a distance and let it move on.

17. Coachwhip

The Coachwhip (Coluber flagellum) is a nonvenomous fast-moving racer. In Arizona, it is found throughout western and southern Arizona. Adults are long and thin, reaching up to 1,728 mm (68 inches) in total length.

For field ID, look for highly variable color, from red, pinkish-red, orange, and rusty brown to olive-brown; large eyes; smooth scales; tail markings that can resemble a braided whip. Typical habitat includes desert scrub, semidesert grassland, lower interior chaparral, desert flats, dune fields, bajadas, and foothills.

Diurnal, fast-moving, and highly alert. Eats lizards, snakes, mice, birds, insects, bats, frogs, toads, and small turtles. Even nonvenomous snakes are best left where they are.

18. North American Racer

The North American Racer (Coluber constrictor) is a nonvenomous fast-moving racer. Adults are medium to long, reaching up to 1,900 mm (75 inches).

For field ID, look for long, slender body, large eyes, smooth scales, and very fast daytime movement.

Diurnal, alert, and exceptionally swift. It eats mice, small mammals, lizards, snakes, birds, eggs, frogs, and insects. If you find one on a trail, step back and let it pass.

19. Sonoran Whipsnake

The Sonoran Whipsnake (Coluber bilineatus) is a nonvenomous slender desert hunter. In Arizona, it is found in most sub-Mogollon Rim mountain ranges in south-central and southeastern Arizona. Adults are long and slender; reaches up to 1,778 mm (70″) in total length.

For field ID, look for blue-gray to gray-green on the neck, transitioning to yellow-green at mid-body, and gray-brown toward the tail; two thin white stripes on each side of the body (neck to mid-body).

Diurnal, alert, and extremely fast-moving. Active predator of lizards, snakes, bats, mice, rats, small mammals, birds, and amphibians. Observe it without picking it up or moving it by hand.

20. Striped Whipsnake

The Striped Whipsnake (Coluber taeniatus) is a nonvenomous slender desert hunter. Primarily inhabits Arizona’s northern plateaus and central mountains. Adults are long and slender, reaching up to 1,652 mm (65 inches) in total length.

For field ID, look for dark brown, gray, or black base color; prominent light stripes run the length of the body.

Diurnal, alert, and extremely fast-moving. Active forager consuming lizards, snakes, mice, small mammals, birds, frogs, and various insects. Watch it from a distance and let it move on.

Kingsnakes, milksnakes, ratsnakes, and gophersnakes

21. Common Kingsnake

The Common Kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula) is a nonvenomous kingsnake. In Arizona, it is found across most of Arizona, excluding high mountains and the high elevations of the Mogollon Rim. Adults are large, reaching up to 1,422 mm (56 inches).

For field ID, look for highly variable by region (see Subspecies).

A powerful constrictor. Even nonvenomous snakes are best left where they are.

22. Gophersnake

The Gophersnake (Pituophis catenifer) is a nonvenomous large constrictor. In Arizona, it is found nearly statewide, excluding only the highest mountain peaks. Adults are Arizona’s longest snake, reaching up to 2,337 mm (92″) in total length.

For field ID, look for a tan, cream, yellow, orange-brown, or pale gray base color with large dorsal blotches (brown, reddish-brown, black, or olive). Typical habitat includes nearly all Arizona biotic communities except for the treeless alpine tundra of the San Francisco Mountains.

Can be active around the clock and hibernates during late fall and winter. It is a powerful constrictor that eats rats, mice, rabbits, lizards, birds, snakes, eggs, and insects. If you find one on a trail, step back and let it pass.

23. Green Ratsnake

The Green Ratsnake (Senticolis triaspis) is a nonvenomous ratsnake. In Arizona, it is found in the mountain ranges of southeastern Arizona, including the Baboquivari, Pajarito, Atascosa, Santa Rita, Empire, Patagonia, Chiricahua, Swisshelm, Pedregosa, and Peloncillo. Adults are large, reaching up to 1,600 mm (63 inches) in total length.

For field ID, look for plain green, yellow-green, or olive coloration with a cream to light yellow underside; gray to gray-green with prominent gray-brown dorsal blotches. Typical habitat includes Madrean evergreen woodland and the upper reaches of semidesert grassland.

Primarily diurnal and crepuscular. A powerful constrictor that feeds on:. Observe it without picking it up or moving it by hand.

24. Milksnake

The Milksnake (Lampropeltis triangulum) is a nonvenomous milksnake. Primarily the northeastern plateau region and a small portion of southeastern Arizona. Adults are medium-sized, reaching up to 900 mm (35.5″) in total length.

For field ID, look for black bands often widen at the midline, sometimes “bridging” across the red bands; the snout is black, which differentiates it from the Sonoran Mountain Kingsnake (which has a light-colored snout). Typical habitat includes Open plains, low valleys, and rolling hills within Plains and Great Basin Grassland and semidesert grassland communities.

Diet includes reptiles, mice, small mammals, small birds, amphibians, and invertebrates. Watch it from a distance and let it move on.

25. Sonoran Mountain Kingsnake

The Sonoran Mountain Kingsnake (Lampropeltis pyromelana) is a nonvenomous kingsnake. Adults are medium-sized, reaching up to 1,088 mm (43 inches) in total length.

For field ID, look for red, black, and white or cream bands with a light-colored snout. Typical habitat includes Heavily wooded, rocky slopes, steep canyon bottoms with leaf litter, fallen logs, and rocks.

A powerful constrictor that feeds on lizards, rodents, birds, and bats. Even nonvenomous snakes are best left where they are.

Gartersnakes of streams, ponds, and wet canyons

26. Black-necked Gartersnake

The Black-necked Gartersnake (Thamnophis cyrtopsis) is a nonvenomous gartersnake. In Arizona, it is found primarily across southeastern and central Arizona, with an isolated population in the Ajo Mountains (western Pima County). Adults are medium-sized, reaching up to 1,070 mm (42 inches) in total length.

For field ID, look for dark olive-gray body; orange or pale yellow mid-dorsal stripe; two lateral stripes; two jet-black crescent-shaped blotches on the neck. Typical habitat includes Sonoran desert scrub, grasslands, chaparral, conifer forests, rocky upland canyons, and semi-permanent streams.

Primarily diurnal and crepuscular, often foraging in shallow water. Eats tadpoles, frogs, toads, lizards, salamanders, earthworms, and invertebrates. If you find one on a trail, step back and let it pass.

27. Checkered Gartersnake

The Checkered Gartersnake (Thamnophis marcianus) is a nonvenomous gartersnake. Primarily found in the valleys of southeastern Arizona. Adults are medium-sized; reaches up to 1,088 mm (43 inches) in total length.

For field ID, look for light olive-green, tan, or yellow-green base; features a pale mid-dorsal stripe and lateral stripes on the third scale row.

Diurnal and nocturnal (active whenever conditions are favorable). A dietary generalist that consumes frogs, toads, tadpoles, lizards, salamanders, snakes, small mammals, fish, and insects. Observe it without picking it up or moving it by hand.

28. Mexican Gartersnake

The Mexican Gartersnake (Thamnophis eques) is a nonvenomous gartersnake. Historically, it has been found in sub-Mogollon Rim drainage systems and parts of south-central and southeastern Arizona. Adults are medium-sized, reaching up to 1,120 mm (44 inches) in total length.

For field ID, look for medium gartersnake build, water-edge habitat, and south-central to southeastern Arizona range. Typical habitat includes water sources, including rivers, streams, and ciénegas.

Often forages in mid-morning sun. Feeds on frogs, toads, fish, lizards, and small mammals. Watch it from a distance and let it move on.

29. Narrow-headed Gartersnake

The Narrow-headed Gartersnake (Thamnophis rufipunctatus) is a nonvenomous gartersnake. In Arizona, it is found along and below the Mogollon Rim in central Arizona at elevations between 2,200′ and 8,000′. Adults are medium-sized, reaching up to 1,115 mm (44″) in total length.

For field ID, look for gray, greenish tan, tan, or brown with paired dark spots along the back that fade toward the tail; pale cream to light gray with two parallel rows of dark blotches. Typical habitat includes clear, rocky streams and rivers, ranging from Arizona Upland Sonoran desert scrub to Petran montane conifer forest.

Highly aquatic, diurnal, and crepuscular (active at dawn/dusk). Primarily fish (dace, chubs, trout) and occasionally salamanders or Smallmouth Bass. Even nonvenomous snakes are best left where they are.

30. Terrestrial Gartersnake

The Terrestrial Gartersnake (Thamnophis elegans) is a nonvenomous gartersnake. Primarily northern and northeastern Arizona, with isolated populations in the Sierra Ancha (Gila County) and Pinaleño Mountains (Graham County). Adults are medium to large; up to 900 mm (36 inches) in total length.

For field ID, look for gray, brown, or orange-brown coloration; features a single cream-colored dorsal stripe and two thinner light stripes on the 2nd and 3rd scale rows.

Highly opportunistic predator. If you find one on a trail, step back and let it pass.

Sand, leaf-nosed, hognose, and patch-nosed snakes

31. Chihuahuan Hook-nosed Snake

The Chihuahuan Hook-nosed Snake (Gyalopion canum) is a nonvenomous hook-nosed desert snake. In Arizona, it is found in the foothills, bajadas, and valleys of southeastern Arizona. Adults are small, stout-bodied; up to 380 mm (15″) in total length.

For field ID, look for small stout body, upturned hook-like snout, and southeastern Arizona range.

Primarily eats spiders, insects, centipedes, and scorpions. Observe it without picking it up or moving it by hand.

32. Eastern Patch-nosed Snake

The Eastern Patch-nosed Snake (Salvadora grahamiae) is a nonvenomous patch-nosed desert snake. In Arizona, it is found in the “sky island” ranges of southeastern Arizona and higher ranges below the eastern half of the Mogollon Rim. Adults are medium-sized, reaching up to 900 mm (36″) in total length.

For field ID, look for slender, tan or cream-colored; two wide, straight-edged, dark brown or black stripes on the back.

An active forager that consumes lizards, snakes, mice, small mammals, reptile eggs, and birds. Watch it from a distance and let it move on.

33. Long-nosed Snake

The Long-nosed Snake (Rhinocheilus lecontei) is a nonvenomous long-nosed desert snake. Its Arizona range includes widespread across southern and western Arizona, including the Arizona Strip (north of the Colorado River). Adults can reach 1,520 mm, though most arizona specimens are under 890 mm (35″).

For field ID, look for narrow head, countersunk lower jaw, pointed snout, smooth/shiny scales, round pupils, and red or orange irises; most subcaudal scales are undivided. Typical habitat includes desert scrub and semidesert grasslands.

Active from April through September. A constrictor that feeds on lizards (especially Aspidoscelis whiptails), small mammals, snake/lizard eggs, and grasshoppers. Even nonvenomous snakes are best left where they are.

34. Mexican Hog-nosed Snake

The Mexican Hog-nosed Snake (Heterodon kennerlyi) is a nonvenomous desert hognose snake. In Arizona, it is found in the valleys of southeastern Arizona. Adults are medium, reaching up to 760 mm (30″) in total length.

For field ID, look for stocky body with a large head barely distinct from the neck; enlarged, flat-bottomed, upturned, and shovel-like (an adaptation for burrowing).

Primarily diurnal and crepuscular (May-October); occasionally nocturnal during warm periods. Generalist predator (toads, frogs, lizards, small snakes, rodents, reptile eggs, salamanders, hatchling turtles, birds/eggs, and insects). If you find one on a trail, step back and let it pass.

35. Saddled Leaf-nosed Snake

The Saddled Leaf-nosed Snake (Phyllorhynchus browni) is a nonvenomous leaf-nosed desert snake. In Arizona, it is found in south-central Arizona. Adults are small, reaching a maximum total length of 508 mm (20 inches).

For field ID, look for body shape, pattern, exact range, and nearby habitat rather than one single feature. Typical habitat includes the Arizona Upland subdivision of the Sonoran desert scrub.

A dietary specialist that feeds almost exclusively on the eggs of lizards and snakes; occasionally consumes small lizards. Observe it without picking it up or moving it by hand.

36. Sonoran Shovel-nosed Snake

The Sonoran Shovel-nosed Snake (Chionactis palarostris) is a nonvenomous small desert sand snake. Its Arizona range includes extremely limited in Arizona; found only in the Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument (western Pima County). Adults are small, reaching up to 430 mm (17 inches).

For field ID, look for cream to light yellow background with red saddles separated by black bands; light-colored snout (distinguishes it from the black-snouted Sonoran Coralsnake). Typical habitat includes Arizona Upland Sonoran desert scrub.

Primarily crepuscular (evening) and nocturnal. Feeds on invertebrates, including insects, scorpions, spiders, and centipedes. Watch it from a distance and let it move on.

37. Spotted Leaf-nosed Snake

The Spotted Leaf-nosed Snake (Phyllorhynchus decurtatus) is a nonvenomous leaf-nosed desert snake. In Arizona, it is found across Arizona’s western and southwestern deserts. Adults are small, reaching a maximum total length of 510 mm (20 inches).

For field ID, look for light tan, cream, or pinkish-tan base with 17+ brown/gray-brown dorsal blotches; smaller blotches on the sides; a distinct dark line extends from the eye to the upper lip.

A dietary specialist that feeds almost exclusively on the eggs of lizards and snakes; occasionally consumes small lizards. Even nonvenomous snakes are best left where they are.

38. Thornscrub Hook-nosed Snake

The Thornscrub Hook-nosed Snake (Gyalopion quadrangulare) is a nonvenomous hook-nosed desert snake. In Arizona, it is restricted to a small portion of Santa Cruz County near the Mexican border. Adults are small, reaching up to 300 mm (12″) in total length.

For field ID, look for bold black saddles on a pale background, reddish side stripes, and a black eye mask.

Occasionally seen on the surface just before sunset, particularly following recent rains. Uses its specialized “hooked” snout to root through debris, rocks, and logs. If you find one on a trail, step back and let it pass.

39. Variable Sandsnake

The Variable Sandsnake (Chilomeniscus stramineus) is a nonvenomous small desert sand snake. In Arizona, it is found across most of south-central Arizona, with isolated populations extending west to Ligurta in Yuma County. Adults are small, stout-bodied; up to 285 mm (11″) in total length.

For field ID, look for small, stout body and sandy Sonoran desert habitat. Typical habitat includes the Arizona Upland subdivision of the Sonoran desert scrub.

Feeds on insects and other invertebrates; consumes roaches, grasshoppers, and centipedes. Observe it without picking it up or moving it by hand.

40. Western Patch-nosed Snake

The Western Patch-nosed Snake (Salvadora hexalepis) is a nonvenomous patch-nosed desert snake. In Arizona, it is found across southern Arizona (below the Mogollon Rim), the western edge of the state, and into the northern plateau deserts. Adults are medium, reaching up to 1,014 mm (40 inches) in total length.

For field ID, look for slender, tan or cream-colored; two wide, dark brown/black irregular-edged stripes on the back, often with light flecks or mottling. Typical habitat includes diverse environments including flatlands, low valleys, rocky bajadas, foothills, and mountain slopes, ranging from low desert scrub to woodlands.

Diurnal, alert, and fast-moving. An active forager that consumes lizards, mice, small mammals, reptile eggs, and birds. Watch it from a distance and let it move on.

41. Western Shovel-nosed Snake

The Western Shovel-nosed Snake (Chionactis occipitalis) is a nonvenomous small desert sand snake. In Arizona, it is found in the low deserts of western and south-central Arizona. Adults are small, reaching up to 369 mm (about 15 inches) in total length.

For field ID, look for cream or light yellow background with more than 20 dark brown to black bands; black mask across the eyes; cream or light yellow snout; smooth, shiny scales. Typical habitat includes sandy washes, dunes, desert flats, gentle bajadas, Lower Colorado River Sonoran desert scrub, and Mohave desert scrub.

Primarily crepuscular, occasionally active at night or on mild days. Feeds on insects, spiders, centipedes, scorpions, and occasionally reptile eggs. Even nonvenomous snakes are best left where they are.

Night snakes and other secretive canyon snakes

42. Chihuahuan Nightsnake

The Chihuahuan Nightsnake (Hypsiglena jani) is a nonvenomous secretive night snake. In Arizona, it is found across the southern portion of the Colorado Plateau (northeastern Arizona) and sub-Mogollon Rim (southeastern Arizona). Adults are small, reaching up to about 600 mm (23 inches) in total length.

For field ID, look for gray or orange-tan body with small dark gray-brown blotches; dark neck collar; dark bar from each eye to the collar; smooth scales. Typical habitat includes desert scrub, grasslands, woodlands, montane conifer forest, open deserts, and rocky wooded slopes.

Strictly nocturnal and often seen on remote roads at night. Feeds mainly on lizards and small snakes, with reptile eggs, frogs, and insects also taken. If you find one on a trail, step back and let it pass.

43. Desert Nightsnake

The Desert Nightsnake (Hypsiglena chlorophaea) is a nonvenomous secretive night snake. In Arizona, it is distributed across most of western and southern Arizona, extending into the northern borderlands. Adults are small, reaching a maximum total length of approximately 598 mm (23 inches).

For field ID, look for gray or tan base with small, dark gray-brown dorsal blotches (often a single row, occasionally offset); features a distinct dark neck collar (three blotches) and a dark bar extending from each eye.

Feeds on. Observe it without picking it up or moving it by hand.

44. Hooded Nightsnake

The Hooded Nightsnake (Hypsiglena sp. nov) is a nonvenomous secretive night snake. In Arizona, it is found in Cochise County, Santa Cruz County, and southeastern Pima County, Arizona. Adults are small, reaching a maximum total length of approximately 600 mm (23 inches).

For field ID, look for gray or tan with two rows of dark, gray-brown dorsal blotches; features a broad neck collar (a single blotch rounded at the back edge) and a mid-dorsal line extending anteriorly from the collar.

Feeds on lizards, small snakes, reptile eggs, frogs, and insects. Watch it from a distance and let it move on.

45. Sonoran Lyresnake

The Sonoran Lyresnake (Trimorphodon lambda) is a nonvenomous secretive canyon snake. In Arizona, it is found across nearly all of southern Arizona, with documented populations in the lower Grand Canyon, the Black Mountains (Mohave County), and the Kofa Mountains (Yuma County). Adults are medium-sized, reaching up to 1,026 mm (40 inches) in total length.

For field ID, look for light gray-brown to gray body; prominent dark brown “lyre-shaped” marking on the head; dark bar between the eyes.

Uses venom and constriction to subdue lizards, small mammals, bats, and birds. Even nonvenomous snakes are best left where they are.

Small, glossy, black-headed, and threadlike snakes

46. Chihuahuan Black-headed Snake

The Chihuahuan Black-headed Snake (Tantilla wilcoxi) is a nonvenomous small black-headed snake. In Arizona, it is found in southeastern Arizona, specifically within the Santa Rita, Patagonia, and Huachuca mountains. Adults are small, reaching a maximum total length of approximately 350 mm (14″).

For field ID, look for light tan or cream body with a dark gray-brown head; a pale collar crosses the back of the head and neck, specifically crossing the tips of the parietal scales. Typical habitat includes Madrean evergreen woodland and Petran montane conifer forest.

Primarily found burrowed under rocks, logs, and leaf litter. Feeds on a variety of invertebrates. If you find one on a trail, step back and let it pass.

47. Glossy Snake

The Glossy Snake (Arizona elegans) is a nonvenomous glossy snake. In Arizona, it is found across Arizona’s northeastern plateaus, southwestern/western deserts, and southeastern valleys. Adults are medium-sized, reaching up to 1,055 mm (42 inches) in total length.

For field ID, look for features dark-edged blotches (tan, golden brown, or olive-gray) on a lighter background (tan, cream, pinkish, or gray). Typical habitat includes relatively flat, open, shrubby areas with sandy or loamy soil.

A constrictor that feeds on small mammals, lizards, snakes, and birds. Observe it without picking it up or moving it by hand.

48. Groundsnake

The Groundsnake (Sonora semiannulata) is a nonvenomous small groundsnake. In Arizona, it is distributed across western and most of southern Arizona. Adults are small, reaching up to 483 mm (19 inches) in total length.

For field ID, look for smooth and shiny; pupils: Round.

It eats insects, spiders, scorpions, centipedes, and lizards. Watch it from a distance and let it move on.

49. New Mexico Threadsnake

The New Mexico Threadsnake (Leptotyphlops dissectus) is a nonvenomous threadsnake. Its Arizona range includes southeastern corner of Arizona. Adults are small, up to 300 mm (12″) in total length.

For field ID, look for body shape, pattern, exact range, and nearby habitat rather than one single feature.

Forages underground for ants, termites, insects, and spiders by following ant scent trails. Even nonvenomous snakes are best left where they are.

50. Plains Black-headed Snake

The Plains Black-headed Snake (Tantilla nigriceps) is a nonvenomous small black-headed snake. In Arizona, it is found in the valleys of southeastern Arizona. Adults are small, slender; up to 380 mm (15″) in total length.

For field ID, look for small, slender body, dark head, and southeastern Arizona range.

Feeds on invertebrates, including centipedes, scorpions, beetle larvae, and other insects. If you find one on a trail, step back and let it pass.

51. Ring-necked Snake

The Ring-necked Snake (Diadophis punctatus) is a nonvenomous small ring-necked snake. In Arizona, it is found across most of central and southeastern Arizona. Adults are small to medium; up to 857 mm (34 inches) in total length.

For field ID, look for small to medium body, a pale neck ring, and contrasting belly color when visible. Typical habitat includes a diverse range, including Mohave and Sonoran desert scrub and Petran montane conifer forest.

Primarily diurnal and crepuscular; most active in mid-morning or near dusk. Feeds on insects, lizards, and other snakes. Observe it without picking it up or moving it by hand.

52. Smith’s Black-headed Snake

The Smith’s Black-headed Snake (Tantilla hobartsmithi) is a nonvenomous small black-headed snake. In Arizona, it is found across southeastern Arizona and sub-Mogollon Rim central Arizona. Adults are small, slender, reaching up to 313 mm (12″) in total length.

For field ID, look for small, slender body, dark head, and southeastern to central Arizona range.

Feeds on invertebrates, including centipedes, scorpions, beetle larvae, and other insects. Watch it from a distance and let it move on.

53. Western Threadsnake

The Western Threadsnake (Leptotyphlops humilis) is a nonvenomous threadsnake. In Arizona, it is found across western and southern Arizona. Adults are small, up to 389 mm (15 inches) in total length.

For field ID, look for thin, shiny, worm-like body; pink, gray, or mauve color; one scale between the oculars on top of the head. Typical habitat includes desert scrub, semidesert grasslands, interior chaparral, lower woodlands, foothills, canyon bottoms, and bajadas below steep terrain.

Primarily nocturnal and crepuscular; spends most of its life underground. Forages underground for ants, termites, centipedes, spiders, and other small invertebrates. Even nonvenomous snakes are best left where they are.

54. Yaqui Black-headed Snake

The Yaqui Black-headed Snake (Tantilla yaquia) is a nonvenomous small black-headed snake. In Arizona, it is found in southeastern Arizona, specifically in the Canelo Hills and the following mountain ranges: Pajarito, Atascosa, Santa Rita, Mule, Chiricahua, Swisshelm, Pedregosa, and Pelon. Adults are small, reaching a maximum total length of approximately 325 mm (13″).

For field ID, look for gray or tan body with a dark gray head cap; a thin white or cream collar borders the posterior edge of the head cap; a white patch marks each cheek behind the eye. Typical habitat includes Madrean evergreen woodland and semidesert grassland communities; typically found in rocky, wooded canyons and adjacent slopes.

Secretive and nocturnal. Forages for various invertebrates under rocks and leaf litter. If you find one on a trail, step back and let it pass.

How to identify an Arizona snake from a safe distance

Start with the habitat and region. A snake in a sandy Lower Colorado River Valley wash gives you a different shortlist than a snake in a wet sky island canyon or a high-elevation pine forest.

Next, compare shape and pattern. Rattlesnakes are heavy-bodied pit vipers with a broad head and often a rattle, but a rattlesnake may stay quiet when surprised. Coralsnakes are small, ringed, and secretive. Gartersnakes are usually slimmer and often show stripes. Kingsnakes and milksnakes are smoother-bodied and often banded, while many desert specialists have shovel-shaped snouts or pale sandy colors.

If you can take a photo without moving closer, that photo is more useful than memory. Include the whole snake, the head if visible, and a bit of surrounding habitat.

Where snakes live in Arizona

Arizona snakes are not spread evenly across the state. Sonoran and Mohave desert flats favor shovel-nosed snakes, sandsnakes, sidewinders, glossy snakes, and patch-nosed snakes. Riparian corridors and wet canyons are better places for gartersnakes and other waterside hunters. Mountain forests and sky islands add rattlesnakes, kingsnakes, and cool-country specialists that a low desert visitor may never see.

Backyards, trails, roadsides, washes, woodpiles, and irrigation edges can all bring people and snakes into the same space. The simple rule is the same across habitats: look first, give wildlife room, and let the snake move away.

Quick Arizona snake questions

How many snakes are in this Arizona guide?

This guide profiles 54 native Arizona snakes. The exact count can shift when taxonomists revise names or when state and herpetology references update their lists.

Which Arizona snakes should I recognize first?

Recognize the venomous group first: the Sonoran Coralsnake and Arizona rattlesnakes. You do not need to identify every species perfectly to make a safe choice. Give unknown snakes room and do not handle them.

Are most Arizona snakes venomous?

No. Most snakes in this guide are nonvenomous. Arizona is famous for rattlesnake diversity, but the full snake fauna also includes boas, kingsnakes, gartersnakes, racers, patch-nosed snakes, leaf-nosed snakes, black-headed snakes, and threadsnakes.

Why do some scientific names differ between sources?

Snake taxonomy changes over time. This guide uses names from current Arizona and herpetology references, and we update names when those references change.