When exploring the diverse landscapes of Colorado, you might encounter one of the state’s many snake species. But don’t let fear keep you indoors! Most snakes in Colorado are harmless, and even the venomous ones prefer to avoid human interaction. In this post, we’ll explore the snakes of Colorado, their behavior, and how to stay safe during outdoor adventures.
Colorado is home to a variety of snake species, but here’s the good news: the vast majority are harmless to humans. In fact, only rattlesnakes pose a venomous threat. Snakes generally prefer to be left alone and play crucial roles in their ecosystems. However, it’s still important to know which snakes to be cautious around and how to behave if you encounter one.
General Snake Behavior
Snakes in Colorado typically prey on small animals like rodents, insects, and frogs. They’re more likely to slither away when they sense human presence than to attack. Snakes only strike when they feel threatened or startled, which is why it’s crucial to be aware of your surroundings in snake-prone areas.
Safety Tips for Snake Encounters
- Look Ahead: Always watch where you’re stepping or placing your hands, especially in rocky or brushy areas.
- Keep Your Distance: If you spot a snake, give it plenty of space. Most snakes can strike up to half their body length.
- Stay Calm: If you encounter a snake, remain calm and slowly back away. Sudden movements might startle the snake and provoke a defensive response.
What to Do if Bitten by a Rattlesnake
In the rare event of a rattlesnake bite, it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately.
While awaiting treatment:
- Do: Keep the affected area below heart level and remain as still as possible.
- Don’t: Apply a tourniquet, try to suck out the venom, or attempt to capture the snake.
Venomous Snakes in Colorado
Rattlesnakes are the only venomous snakes in Colorado.
They can be identified by their distinctive features:
- Triangular head
- Vertical, cat-like pupils
- Heat-sensing pits between the eyes and nostrils
- Rattles at the end of their tail (though these may be missing in young snakes)
Non-Venomous Snakes in Colorado
- Blackneck Garter Snake
- Appearance: Olive green with black neck and yellow stripes
- Habitat: Near water sources
- Diet: Small fish, amphibians, and invertebrates
- Defense: May release a foul-smelling musk when threatened
- Colorado Bullsnake
- Size: Can grow up to 6 feet long
- Appearance: Light brown with dark blotches
- Habitat: Prairies, sandhills, and open woodlands
- Diet: Small mammals, birds, and eggs
- Defense: Mimics rattlesnake behavior by coiling and vibrating its tail
- Western Yellow-Bellied Racer
- Appearance: Slender with blue-green back and yellow belly
- Distribution: Throughout Colorado
- Diet: Insects, lizards, and small rodents
- Habitat: Grasslands, shrublands, and open woodlands
- Great Basin Gopher Snake
- Appearance: Similar to rattlesnakes, with brown blotches on a tan background
- Distribution: Western Colorado
- Defense: Mimics rattlesnakes by flattening its head and vibrating its tail
- Diet: Small mammals, birds, and eggs
Snake Biology
Snakes are ectothermic, meaning they rely on external sources for body heat. This influences their hunting patterns and activity levels. They use their forked tongues to “taste” the air, collecting chemical information about their environment. Pit vipers, like rattlesnakes, have heat-sensitive facial pits that help them detect warm-blooded prey.
Snakes are an integral part of Colorado’s natural environment, playing vital roles in controlling pest populations and maintaining ecological balance. While it’s important to be aware of their presence, don’t let fear of snakes keep you from enjoying Colorado’s beautiful outdoors. By following simple safety precautions and respecting wildlife, you can coexist peacefully with these fascinating creatures.