Overview
California has around 33 snake species across deserts, chaparral, foothills, and coast. Rattlesnakes are the only venomous group, and the great majority of snakes you meet are harmless and beneficial.
Identify from a distance — a photo from several feet away is all you need. This guide covers the snakes you are most likely to encounter in California.
Key Species to Know
Pacific Gopher Snake
Pituophis catenifer
A large tan non-venomous constrictor with dark blotches that hisses and vibrates its tail to mimic a rattlesnake — all bluff. Frequently killed by mistake; harmless and a superb rodent-hunter.
California Kingsnake
Lampropeltis californiae
A glossy non-venomous snake, usually banded black-and-white (sometimes striped). Famous for eating other snakes, including rattlesnakes, and completely harmless to people.
Racer
Coluber constrictor
A slender, fast, plain-colored non-venomous snake with large eyes, quick to flee across open ground. Harmless despite its speed.
Common Garter Snake
Thamnophis sirtalis
A slender, harmless snake with pale stripes down a dark body, often near water. Gentle and quick to flee.
Northern Pacific Rattlesnake
Crotalus oreganus
A blotched, heavy-bodied rattlesnake with a rattle, the most widespread venomous snake in northern and central California. Venomous; gives a buzzing warning when disturbed.
Western Diamondback Rattlesnake
Crotalus atrox
A heavy-bodied rattlesnake with diamond blotches and a black-and-white "coon tail," found in the southeastern deserts. Venomous; gives a clear buzzing warning.
Seasonal Guide
- Rattlesnakes are most active spring through fall, and on warm evenings in summer.
- Watch your footing around rocks, brush, and trail edges in the foothills and desert.
- A hissing, tail-buzzing snake with no rattle is likely a harmless gopher snake — confirm from a distance.
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.