15 U.S. States Crawling With the Most Rattlesnakes – Are You Living in One?
North America’s 32 rattlesnake species create some of the most populated snake habitats worldwide. According to CDC statistics, about 7,000 to 8,000 people get venomous snakebites in the United States every year, with just 5 of those cases ending in death annually.
People know rattlesnakes best for the unique vibrating sound they make alongside their toxic bite. Where can you find the most significant number of these snakes?
Read ahead to determine if rattlesnakes frequently appear where you live and learn how you can stay safe.
Texas
Texas is home to ten types of rattlesnakes. The many environments, from desert to valley landscapes, are ideal habitats for rattlesnake populations.
As this species dominates its range, people frequently encounter the Western Diamondback on hiking paths and in isolated regions. While enjoying the outdoors in Texas, please stay alert when moving through rocky areas and dense shrubbery. Your best shield against snakebites comes from wearing boots with sturdy pants.
California
The seven rattlesnake species of California live throughout its desert, mountain, and coastal regions. On suburban hiking trails, you can encounter the most common type of rattlesnake in the state.
Check both sides of rocks and logs before taking a break because rattlesnakes match their environment perfectly.
Florida
Many people believe gators are the only dangerous animals in Florida. Think again. The Sunshine State is home to the Eastern Diamondback, one of the largest and most lethal rattlesnakes.
These snakes choose to live in both forested and beachside sandy environments. Proper tent sealing and food storage will protect your campsite against snake visits when you stay in Florida.
New Mexico
New Mexico houses rattlesnake populations, including Prairie and Rock species. The desert landscapes with dry and rocky soil across the state create excellent living spaces for these reptiles.
Put on snake gaiters when walking New Mexico trails, as rattlesnakes show peak summer activity.
Arizona
Arizona ranks first among U.S. states, with 13 rattlesnake species spread throughout the area. The Mojave Rattlesnake, which thrives here, produces especially lethal poison.
Protect yourself when visiting Sedona and the Grand Canyon desert locations. Hikers, take note! Stay on designated paths and watch for rattlesnake sounds, which these animals use to tell you to stay away.
Nevada
The Sidewinder Rattlesnake makes its home in Nevada’s arid deserts and canyons through notable sideways transits. It lives in the Mojave Desert and sometimes appears around Lake Mead.
When playing outside becomes cold, bring a flashlight for your hikes because rattlesnakes have a preferred time to move in these moments.
Oklahoma
Prairie Rattlesnakes rule Oklahoma’s grassland areas. They live quietly across undeveloped landscapes to feed on small rodents.
When exploring Oklahoma’s large countryside areas, tell someone your hiking route. Public hiking routes run through the main areas where rattlesnakes live.
Georgia
Georgia hosts the Timber Rattlesnake species and its larger counterpart, the Eastern Diamondback. Their timid nature hides these deadly serpents, which live in woodland areas around flowing water.
Watch your steps through southern Georgia forests and secure your boots before testing the ground with hiking sticks.
Utah
Multiple snake types live in Utah, especially the Great Basin Rattlesnake. They live in desert landscapes and the lower foothills of mountain ranges.
Even during cold seasons, you should remain vigilant for snakes. As soon as springtime heats the ground in Utah, rattlesnakes come out of hibernation.
Colorado
The Prairie Rattlesnake species occur across Colorado’s eastern plains and foothill regions. Focus your full attention on rocky fields with grass coverage.
Show children to avoid unexpected rock formations and logs because rattlesnakes tend to nest there. Being alert helps you stay safe first.
Arkansas
Arkansas has two main types of rattlesnakes: the Timber and Western Diamondback. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot rattlesnakes in the state’s forest regions and near the Ozark Mountains.
Stay on established paved paths when walking through overgrown areas. To prevent accidental strikes, keep your pets on a leash.
Washington
Despite its cool climate, the Pacific Northwest in Washington has rattlesnakes. The Western Rattlesnake lives across Washington’s Eastern hills and dry lands. Hikers must walk over logs and rocks instead of jumping past them to spot hidden rattlesnakes.
South Dakota
Prairie Rattlesnakes live comfortably throughout South Dakota’s hilly grasslands with rocky surfaces. They can also survive on any ground, including forests and flatlands.
When you plan a long hike through the Black Hills, carry a snakebite kit and stay on high alert.
Missouri
Timber and Massasauga vipers live throughout Missouri’s forests and swampland areas. Their blend into plant life makes them hard to spot, so watch your steps.
Night hikes? Skip them. During summer months, Missouri rattlesnakes search for prey at night.
Alabama
Timber Rattlesnakes make Alabama their home deep in the forest among existing hills. Their population stays stable throughout the year because the weather stays mild. Pay attention to where you walk through the forest because Alabama snakes can disappear into their surroundings.
Even though you may not often meet rattlesnakes, you must be ready for them.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
Disclosure: For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
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