Overview
Arizona has more rattlesnake species than any other state — thirteen — plus dozens of harmless snakes, all suited to its deserts, canyons, and sky-island mountains. Most encounters are with non-venomous species, but the state's rattlesnakes deserve real respect.
The safest way to identify any snake is from several feet away with a photo — never handle, corner, or try to move one. This guide covers the snakes you are most likely to meet on Arizona trails, washes, and yards.
Key Species to Know
Western Diamondback Rattlesnake
Crotalus atrox
Arizona's most widespread and frequently encountered rattlesnake — heavy-bodied with diamond blotches and a black-and-white banded "coon tail" ahead of the rattle. Venomous; buzzes a clear warning when threatened.
Mojave Rattlesnake
Crotalus scutulatus
Similar to the diamondback but usually greenish-tinged with narrower black tail bands and wider white ones. Venomous, with a particularly potent venom; found in open desert and grassland.
Sonoran Gopher Snake
Pituophis catenifer affinis
A large, non-venomous constrictor with brown blotches on a cream body. Often mistaken for a rattlesnake — it will hiss loudly, flatten its head, and vibrate its tail — but it has no rattle and is harmless.
Sonoran Coral Snake
Micruroides euryxanthus
A small, secretive snake ringed in red, black, and yellow, with red and yellow bands touching. Venomous but shy, with a small mouth; bites are very rare.
California Kingsnake
Lampropeltis californiae
A glossy, non-venomous snake in bold black-and-white (or brown-and-cream) bands. Harmless to people and famous for preying on rattlesnakes, to whose venom it is largely immune.
Coachwhip
Masticophis flagellum
A long, slender, extremely fast non-venomous snake, often pink, tan, or two-toned with a braided-whip look to its tail. Curious and quick to flee rather than fight.
Seasonal Guide
- Rattlesnakes are most active in spring and fall, and on warm summer evenings and nights.
- Watch your step and your hands around rocks, woodpiles, and desert washes — reach only where you can see.
- Most bites occur when people try to handle or kill a snake — give any snake room and it will move on.
Safety Reminder
Identify snakes from a safe distance only, and never handle one to get a photo. If someone is bitten, treat it as a medical emergency and contact emergency services immediately — do not wait to identify the snake or attempt folk remedies. App results are reference information, not medical advice.
Identify it instantly
Found something and not sure what it is? Point your camera with Spotter and get a species identification in seconds — with detailed reference info and species notes.