TikTok is Right—There Are Rattlesnakes in Massachusetts: Here’s What You Need to Know About Snakes You May Encounter on Trails Across the Northeast

If you’ve been scrolling through social media , you might have stumbled upon a viral video showing two timber rattlesnakes locked in a dramatic “combat dance” on a trail in Massachusetts. For many, this was a shocking reminder that these venomous snakes do, in fact, call the Northeast home. While timber rattlesnakes are rare and reclusive, they are very much a part of the region’s diverse wildlife. Read on to learn more about these elusive creatures, how to identify them, and what to do if you happen to cross paths.

Overview of Snake Species in Massachusetts and the Northeast

The Northeast is home to a fascinating variety of snake species, ranging from the harmless smooth green snake to the more formidable timber rattlesnake. Each state in the region, including Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, New Hampshire, and Maine, offers diverse habitats that support different snake populations.

Common Non-Venomous Snakes

• Eastern Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis): Ubiquitous across the Northeast, this snake is known for its adaptability and is frequently seen in gardens, wetlands, and forests. It has three light stripes running along its dark body, making it easy to identify​ (Mass.gov)​.
• Smooth Green Snake (Opheodrys vernalis): Found in grassy areas and meadows, the smooth green snake is notable for its bright green color, which helps it blend into its surroundings. It’s a gentle species, often spotted in Massachusetts and Connecticut​ (Mass Audubon).
• Northern Water Snake (Nerodia sipedon): A larger and more robust snake that thrives in aquatic environments such as rivers and ponds across New York and New England. It’s often mistaken for the venomous cottonmouth, though the latter does not inhabit this region​ (Mass Audubon).
• Eastern Milk Snake (Lampropeltis triangulum): Common in New Hampshire and Maine, this snake is often confused with venomous species due to its distinct pattern. It can be found in a variety of habitats, including fields and rocky outcrops​ (Mass Audubon).

Venomous Snakes of the Northeast

• Timber Rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus): The star of the viral video, this snake is the most well-known venomous species in Massachusetts, New York, and Connecticut. Timber rattlesnakes are typically found in forested areas and are protected due to their endangered status (Mass Audubon).
• Northern Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix): Although rare, the copperhead is another venomous snake found in the southern parts of New York and Connecticut. Its distinctive copper-colored head and hourglass patterns make it a striking, though seldom-seen, member of the Northeast’s snake population​ (Mass Audubon).

Simple Snake Identification Guide

Identifying snakes can be both exciting and daunting, especially when you encounter them on a trail. Here’s a quick guide to help you recognize the most common snakes you might come across while exploring the Northeast.

The Role of Snakes in the Northeastern Ecosystem

While snakes often elicit fear, they are crucial for maintaining the health of our ecosystems. In the Northeast snakes help control populations of rodents and other small animals, which in turn reduces the spread of diseases like Lyme disease. Venomous species like the timber rattlesnake and the copperhead play an equally important role, though their encounters with humans are rare and usually avoidable.

What to Do If You Encounter a Snake

Spotting a snake on a trail can be a thrilling experience, but it’s important to handle the situation calmly and respectfully:

• Stay Calm and Keep Your Distance: Most snakes, including venomous ones, are not aggressive and will avoid humans if left alone.
• Do Not Disturb: Avoid trying to move or interact with the snake. Allow it to continue on its way undisturbed.
• Identify Safely: Get a field guide like AMC’s Nature Guide to the Northeast to help identify the snake from a safe distance. Remember that non-venomous snakes vastly outnumber venomous ones in the Northeast.
• Report Rare Sightings: If you encounter a rare or endangered species, like the timber rattlesnake in the video, consider reporting the sighting to local wildlife authorities to support conservation efforts​ (Mass.gov)​.

Whether you’re hiking in Massachusetts, exploring the forests of New Hampshire, or enjoying the wetlands of Connecticut, encountering a snake can be a memorable part of your outdoor adventure. By understanding and respecting these creatures, we can ensure their continued presence in the Northeast’s rich biodiversity. And who knows—next time you’re on a trail, you might just spot a timber rattlesnake, adding a thrilling chapter to your wilderness experience. Just be sure to keep your distance!