venomous snake in Massachusetts

There are only two venomous snakes in Massachusetts: the timber rattlesnake and the copperhead. Contrary to popular belief, there are no venomous “water moccasins” in the Bay State, only harmless water snakes.

Timber rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus)

Venomous, the timber rattlesnake is extremely rare and localized. It has a heavy body, a triangular head, a slitted, cat-like pupil, and a rattle that it uses to warn potential predators. It prefers rocky, forested areas.

Status: Endangered in Massachusetts, and, under the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act, it is illegal to kill, harass, or possess this snake.

SOURCE: Mass Audubon

Northern copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix)

Venomous, the northern copperhead is extremely rare to encounter. It has a thick, heavy body, with keeled scales, a triangular head, and a thin, cat-like pupil. Its brown and orange body is well-camouflaged against the forest floor.

Status: Endangered in the Massachusetts, and, under the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act, it is illegal to kill, harass, or possess this snake.

SOURCE: Mass Audubon