Snakes of New Hampshire

There are 11 species of snakes that are native to New Hampshire. Some of these species, such as the garter snake are common and widespread across the state. Other species like the timber rattlesnake are extremely rare and are now state protected. Five of the 11 species (i.e., timber rattlesnake, eastern hognose snake, northern black racer, smooth green snake, and ribbon snake) were identified as species in greatest need of conservation in New Hampshire’s Wildlife Action Plan completed in the fall of 2005. Overall, snakes are poorly studied and basic distribution and life history information is lacking. The New Hampshire Fish & Game maintains a database of all reptile and amphibian reports through its Reptile and Amphibian Reporting Program (RAARP). The first step to reporting a sighting is accurately identifying the species. Information and photographs were compiled for all of New Hampshire’s native snakes to aid in this identification process.