These are the Largest, Most Dangerous Snakes in Oregon

When it comes to snakes, Oregon is a state that has significantly fewer species than most other states. With just 15 species, some of which choose to be more recluse than others, even residents may not be aware of the snakes that live in the Beaver State. Just because Oregon has a smaller pool of snake species than many other states, it does not mean it lacks any large or dangerous snakes. However, there is only one venomous snake species to watch out for, meaning that while many snakes in Oregon may be a bit larger, they do not possess the ability to cause serious harm to people they encounter.

Northern Pacific Rattlesnake

The Northern Pacific rattlesnake is one of the subspecies of the Western rattlesnake. These rattlesnakes are highly venomous, and those who are bitten require antivenom within four hours to prevent permanent damage or worse.

Northern Pacific rattlesnakes are dark brown, green, or black with cream to white colored diamond designs on their bodies. Their heads are the traditional pit viper triangular shape, with vertical pupils. While most Northern Pacific rattlesnakes are under four feet long, rare individuals may approach five feet in length. They tend to inhabit a variety of habitats in Oregon, ranging from mountains to grasslands and forests. They are active both in the daytime and evening and may or may not rattle their tail to warn people they are getting dangerously close to a rattlesnake who is willing to strike.

Great Basin Rattlesnake

The Great Basin rattlesnake is a subspecies of the Western rattlesnake. This snake is extremely venomous, requiring immediate medical attention, given how much venom they are capable of injecting at one time. Whereas the Northern Pacific rattlesnake is darker in color, the Great Basin rattlesnake tends to be lighter. The coloration of the snake can vary from pale yellow to gray, tan, or brown. The designs on the snake are made up of black scales. But, just like other pit vipers, their heads are also triangular-shaped, and they have vertical pupils. The Northern Pacific rattlesnake can reach lengths of up to four feet.

Great Basin rattlesnakes inhabit a diverse range of habitats, including grasslands, rocky hillsides, arid desert basins, and even forest areas with dense brush. Given their coloring, Great Basin rattlesnakes can easily camouflage in any of these settings, making it very easy to come across one of these snakes unwittingly.

Western Terrestrial Garter Snake

While the western terrestrial garter snake may sound like a docile enough snake, this snake is the only garter snake that constricts its prey. They do not have the strength to cause any harm to people with their constriction, but in the animal kingdom, they are a force to be reckoned with. The western terrestrial garter snake comes in a variety of colors. All the snakes will have a stripe running down their back and two more on their sides that are white, yellow, or even a light orange. They can grow up to 3.5 feet long and are often confused for being rattlesnakes or bullsnakes.

Western terrestrial garter snakes are found in most of Oregon. Their habitats include forests, woodlands, grasslands, rocky hillsides, and brush-filled fields. There is no environment off-limits to the snakes. Additionally, while the western terrestrial may not be a life-threatening snake to people, they do bite. Their bites are the most painful of all garter snakes, and it is recommended that if there is a western terrestrial garter snake infestation, contact experts who can safely remove the snakes.

California Kingsnake

The California kingsnake is a powerful constrictor snake. Despite this, the snake makes for a popular pet among snake enthusiasts. The snake got its name due to its fondness for eating other snakes, including venomous ones. Like most other snakes in Oregon, the California kingsnake can thrive in different habitats. From deserts to forests and everywhere in between, the kingsnake is very amenable to most environments it encounters, even if being encroached upon by people.

Most California kingsnakes have very distinct bands in either a cream or white coloration and have a background color of brown or black that, in the light, appears to have a metallic finish. Unlike venomous snakes, the kingsnake does not have a triangular-shaped head. In many instances, the California kingsnake will be between three and four feet long. However, some larger specimens have been measured at over six feet long.

North American Racer Snake

The North American Racer is another constrictor snake. While not venomous, this does not mean the snake is not capable of causing damage if cornered or picked up. It will vibrate its tail, much like a rattlesnake, making a rustling sound in the surrounding leaves. This is the warning the snake makes before it strikes, biting whatever it deems a threat. Fortunately, if the North American Racer has an escape route, it would prefer to flee rather than fight.

North American Racer snakes are identifiable by their blackish-blue or brown and white coloration. These colorations, however, can cause them to be confused with the Eastern Coachwhip, Eastern Rat snake, or even the Pygmy rattlesnake. Most North American Racers are approximately 3.5 feet to 4.5 feet long. Some rare individuals can reach up to six feet in length, making the North American Racer one of the largest snakes that live in Oregon

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