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1. Western Diamondback Rattlesnake (Crotalus atrox): Found throughout the state, this is the largest venomous snake in New Mexico. It has a triangular head, jointed rattles on its tail, and a diamond-shaped pattern on its body.
2. Prairie Rattlesnake (Crotalus viridis): Found in the eastern plains and foothills of New Mexico, this snake has a triangular head, jointed rattles on its tail, and a pale green or brown body with dark crossbands.
3. Midget Faded Rattlesnake (Crotalus oreganus concolor): Found in the southwestern mountains of New Mexico, this small rattlesnake has a triangular head, jointed rattles on its tail, and a gray or brown body with dark blotches.
4. Mojave Rattlesnake (Crotalus scutulatus): Found in the southwestern deserts of New Mexico, this highly venomous snake has a triangular head, jointed rattles on its tail, and a gray or brown body with diamond-shaped patterns.
5. Black-tailed Rattlesnake (Crotalus molossus): Found in the southern deserts and mountains of New Mexico, this snake has a triangular head, jointed rattles on its tail, and a black or dark brown body with light crossbands.
Non-Venomous Snakes:
1. Bullsnake (Pituophis catenifer): Found throughout the state, this large snake is harmless to humans. It has a round head, smooth scales, and a brown or gray body with dark blotches.
2. Gopher Snake (Pituophis melanoleucus): Found in the eastern plains and foothills of New Mexico, this snake is harmless to humans. It has a round head, smooth scales, and a brown or black body with light crossbands.
3. Western Ratsnake (Pantherophis obsoletus): Found throughout the state, this snake is harmless to humans. It has a round head, smooth scales, and a black or brown body with light crossbands.
4. Scarlet Kingsnake (Lampropeltis elapsoides): Found in the southeastern deserts of New Mexico, this snake is harmless to humans. It has a round head, smooth scales, and a red, black, and yellow banded body.
5. Eastern Milksnake (Lampropeltis triangulum): Found in the eastern plains and foothills of New Mexico, this snake is harmless to humans. It has a round head, smooth scales, and a red, black, and white banded body.