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Browse three reviewed snakes at a time. Changing pages does not reload or move you away from the myths below.
Heterodon nasicus
Potentially venomous
Heterodon nasicus (Western hog-nosed snake) is a small, stout-bodied colubrid native to central North America, known for upturned snout used for digging, dramatic defensive displays (flattening neck, hissing, bluff strikes, and playing dead), and a diet specialized on amphibians and reptile eggs. Bites may produce mild local effects in some people, but it is not considered dangerously venomous to humans.
Sistrurus tergeminus
Venomous
Sistrurus tergeminus (Western massasauga) is a small to medium-sized pit viper native to grasslands, prairies, and open rocky or scrubby areas in the central United States, northern Mexico, and southern Canada. Venomous; bites can be medically significant. Generally secretive and nocturnal during warm weather, it relies on camouflage and will typically avoid humans if given space.
Lampropeltis gentilis
No medically significant venom known
Lampropeltis gentilis (Western Milksnake) is a nonvenomous colubrid native to western North America. Typically secretive and nocturnal/crepuscular, it inhabits grasslands, open woodlands, rocky areas, and agricultural edges. Usually feeds on rodents, small reptiles, and eggs. Generally not dangerous to people but should not be handled; can be beneficial by reducing rodent populations.
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.