Massachusetts Officials Say Beware of Venomous Snakes - wbsm.com

Massachusets isn't exactly known for killer snakes, but the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife warns there are venomous snakes among us.

There are more than a dozen species of snakes found in Massachusetts. The Division of Fisheries and Wildlife advises you to "learn about the colors, patterns, habitats, and behaviors of all 14 snake species" if you plan to spend time outdoors.

Two of the 14 species of snakes that slither between the Bay State's borders are venomous: the timber rattlesnake and the copperhead. The Division of Fisheries and Wildlife said both species "live in only a few areas of the state, and both are state-listed as endangered species."

If you come across one of these venomous snakes, it would not be a good idea to bash its head in with a boulder because of its protected status.

Massachusetts Officials: Beware Of Venomous Snakes

Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife Photo

The Division of Fisheries and Wildlife said timber rattlesnakes are "mild-mannered, venomous, and very rare." Timber rattlesnakes range throughout the eastern United States. In Massachusetts, they are limited "almost exclusively" to the western counties.

Then there is the other venomous snake, the copperhead.

"Copperheads are easy to identify, venomous, and rare," MassWildlife said.

The copperhead is limited to small, localized populations in Norfolk and Hampden Counties. The copperhead is identified by its "solid, relatively unmarked heads, which are similar to the color of an old copper coin."

Of the 14 snake species in Massachusetts, three are listed as endangered (timber rattlesnake, copperhead, and eastern rat snake), one as threatened (eastern worm snake), and one as being of special concern (eastern hog-nosed snake.)

The Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife asks that you report sightings of a snake that is state-listed as threatened, endangered, or of special concern on the MassWildlife Heritage Hub or by using the Rare Animal Observation Form.

Here's a List of All the Snakes Native to Massachusetts (Two Can Kill You)

Did you know that there's a species of rattlesnake found in the Bay State? Or that two of our local venomous serpents can be deadly to humans — but despite what your parents told you, the water moccasin isn't one of them? (They don't even live in Massachusetts.) Love them or hate them, these slithery little suckers are everywhere. Here's what snakes you're most likely to find in your backyard.

Massachusetts Wildlife You Can Legally Take Home as Pets

Massachusetts has such diverse wildlife, but also strict limitations on what you can bring home and cuddle. In fact, there are only certain reptiles and amphibians you can keep as pets (so no raccoons, squirrels, bunnies, etc.) and you are only allowed two of each. The state also says "you cannot sell, barter, or exchange them." Also, keep in mind, these are wildlife, so it's probably best to just leave them be and maybe visit a reptile shop instead to get your next pet.

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