Snakes of New Jersey: 7 Species You Might Encounter

Yes, Snakes Live in NJ

New Jersey hosts 22 snake species; most are harmless. Here are seven notable ones:

Non-Venomous

1. Eastern Ratsnake (Pantherophis alleghaniensis): Black with pale belly; up to 6 ft. Common, climbs trees, eats rodents.
2. Northern Ringneck Snake (Diadophis punctatus): Small (10–15 in), slate back, bright neck ring. Woodland, secretive.
3. Eastern Gartersnake (Thamnophis sirtalis): Striped (yellow on dark); meadows, wetlands, yards. Very common.
4. Northern Water Snake (Nerodia sipedon): Dark, banded; rivers, lakes. Aggressive if cornered but non-venomous.
5. Scarlet Kingsnake (Lampropeltis elapsoides): Red/black/yellow bands (coral mimic); pine barrens. Rare.
6. Eastern Milk Snake (Lampropeltis triangulum): Blotched (red/brown on gray); barns, rocky hills. Constrictor.

Venomous (Only One)

7. Timber Rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus): Heavy-bodied, chevron bands, rattle. Endangered in NJ. Rocky forests, Pinelands. Venomous—give space.

Safety & Law

• All native snakes protected; illegal to kill/collect.
• Observe from distance; never handle.
• If bitten by rattlesnake: call 911, immobilize, no tourniquet/suction.
• Reduce yard encounters: remove debris, seal foundations.

Snakes control rodents and indicate healthy ecosystems. Respect them.