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Browse three reviewed snakes at a time. Changing pages does not reload or move you away from the myths below.
Lampropeltis calligaster
No medically significant venom known
Prairie kingsnake (Lampropeltis calligaster) is a nonvenomous colubrid native to central North America, often found in grasslands, agricultural edge, and rocky outcrops. It preys on small mammals, birds, reptiles, and eggs and helps control rodent populations. Typically secretive and non-aggressive but will musking or mimicry when threatened. Not considered dangerous to humans but should not be handled.
Crotalus viridis
Venomous
Crotalus viridis (Prairie Rattlesnake) is a medium- to large-bodied venomous pit viper native to open grasslands, shrublands, and rocky areas across parts of Canada, the United States, and northern Mexico. It uses heat-sensing pits to detect prey, delivers hemotoxic and neurotoxic venom via hinged fangs, and produces a distinctive rattle on the tail as a warning. Homeowners should give these snakes space, secure attractants (rodents, poultry feed, woodpiles), and contact professionals for removal when necessary.
Sistrurus miliarius
Venomous
Sistrurus miliarius (Pygmy Rattlesnake) is a small pit viper native to the southeastern United States. It is venomous and may deliver medically significant bites. Typically secretive and cryptic in coloration, it is often found in pine flatwoods, scrub, sandhills, marsh edges, and grassy or leaf-littered areas. Avoid approaching or attempting to handle; give it space and allow it to move away.
Juvenile venomous snakes can deliver medically significant bites, but the common claim that they are automatically more dangerous because they cannot control venom delivery is not supported as a general rule. Adult snakes usually have larger venom glands and can deliver a larger total amount.
Bottom line: Treat every suspected venomous snakebite as a medical emergency, regardless of the snake’s age.
Head shape alone is unreliable. Many nonvenomous snakes flatten or widen the head defensively, and viewing angle can change the apparent shape.
Bottom line: Do not approach a snake to inspect its head. Use multiple traits, location, and a safe-distance photograph.
Tourniquets can worsen tissue injury and are not recommended for typical United States snakebites. Emergency evaluation is more important.
Bottom line: Call 911 or Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222. Keep the person calm and do not cut, suck, ice, or tourniquet the bite.
Young copperheads can have a contrasting yellow or greenish tail tip used in caudal luring. It is soft and tapered, not a segmented rattle. The bright color usually fades with age.
Bottom line: Never move closer to inspect the tail. The feature is a clue, not permission to approach or handle the snake.
Several non-rattlesnake species vibrate their tails when threatened. Dry leaves can make the sound resemble a rattle.
Bottom line: A defensive tail vibration does not identify the species. Keep your distance.