Indiana’s Four Venomous Snakes

Indiana is home to 32 species of native snakes, of which only four are venomous. These four venomous snakes include the Eastern Copperhead, Cottonmouth (Water Moccasin), Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake, and Timber Rattlesnake. Despite common fears, snakes are not aggressive and will only bite when threatened. The majority of snake bites happen when people attempt to handle or kill them.

Eastern Copperhead

Eastern Copperheads are found in southern Indiana, particularly in the rocky hills and forested areas. They prefer ridgetop forest openings, rocky outcrops, and hollow logs. With a copper-colored head and hourglass-shaped bands along their back, Copperheads are usually shy and blend well with their surroundings. Though they are the most common venomous snake in the Midwest, bites are rare and typically happen when a snake is accidentally stepped on.

Cottonmouth (Water Moccasin)

Though often feared, the Cottonmouth is likely extinct in Indiana, with the last confirmed sightings in the 1980s in Dubois County. Cottonmouths are semi-aquatic and commonly confused with the non-venomous Northern Watersnake. When threatened, they display a white interior mouth, earning the name "Cottonmouth." In neighboring states where Cottonmouths persist, they can grow up to five feet in length and are generally defensive rather than aggressive.

Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake

The Eastern Massasauga is Indiana's smallest rattlesnake, rarely growing longer than two feet. It resides in the wetlands of northern Indiana and is a federally threatened and state-endangered species. Massasaugas have gray or light brown bodies with dark blotches and a small rattle on the tail. Although their venom is potent, envenomation is uncommon due to their reclusive nature. Habitat loss has severely diminished their population, and they now exist only in isolated pockets.

Timber Rattlesnake

Once widespread throughout southern Indiana, the Timber Rattlesnake now only exists in the rugged forests of Brown County and nearby regions. These snakes can grow to over five feet in length and are recognized by their broad, triangular heads and dark chevron-shaped markings on a yellow, brown, or gray background. Timber Rattlesnakes are ambush predators, relying on stealth and stillness to capture prey, primarily small mammals. This species is listed as state-endangered due to habitat loss, road mortality, and illegal collection.

What to Do if Bitten by a Snake

In the rare event of a venomous snakebite, follow these steps to get the appropriate care:

1. Call 911 immediately and get to the nearest hospital as quickly as possible.

2. Remain calm and avoid panicking, as this can increase the spread of venom.

3. Remove any tight clothing or jewelry near the bite site to accommodate swelling.

4. Elevate the bite area above heart level.

5. Do not attempt any home remedies, including cutting the wound, applying a tourniquet, or sucking out venom.

6. If it's safe, take a photo of the snake for identification, but avoid approaching or handling it.

Prompt medical care is the only reliable treatment for venomous snakebites, with antivenom being the definitive remedy.