Are there any dangerous snakes in Maine? | Fact brief

Maine is one of four states that have no native snake considered dangerous to people. The others are Alaska, Hawaii and Rhode Island.

Maine wildlife officials recognize nine native snake species: garter, water, brown, milk, ribbon, racer, red-bellied, ring-necked and smooth green snakes. The ring-necked snake is mildly venomous, but the state says it is harmless to humans.

Maine once had venomous timber rattlesnakes, but they were heavily persecuted by settlers and were last seen in the state around 1860. The species is now extirpated, or locally extinct.

The nearest state with a native venomous snake is New Hampshire, where wildlife officials say one known timber rattlesnake population remains. Massachusetts has timber rattlesnakes and copperheads, though both are endangered.

Maine’s climate helps restrict snake populations. Nearly all Maine reptiles are at or near the northern edge of their ranges, with many snakes burrowing underground for winter hibernation.