Arizona is home to 14 venomous snake species: 13 species of rattlesnakes and the Sonoran Coral Snake. While most bites occur from encounters with the common Western Diamondback, rattlesnakes across the state vary widely by region, size, and venom toxicity.

Top Venomous Snakes in Arizona

• Western Diamondback Rattlesnake: The most common rattlesnake in Arizona and responsible for the majority of bites. They are large (3.5 to 5 feet) and easily identified by the black-and-white banded tail.

• Mojave Rattlesnake: Widely considered to have the most toxic venom of any rattlesnake in the United States. They look very similar to the Western Diamondback but are generally found in high deserts or lower mountain slopes.

• Sidewinder (Horned Rattlesnake): A smaller desert snake that moves with a distinct "sidewinding" motion. Look for the unique horn-like scales above their eyes.

• Arizona Coral Snake: A highly venomous but mild-mannered and secretive snake. It has bands of red, black, and yellow/white, and spends most of its life underground.

• Tiger Rattlesnake: Found primarily in the rocky, mountainous areas of metro Phoenix and Tucson. They have uniquely potent venom and an unusually small head paired with a large rattle.

Quick Identification

• Rattlesnakes typically feature a large, triangular head, vertical (elliptical) pupils, and a rattle at the end of the tail.

• For the Sonoran Coral Snake, a famous rhyme is often used for identification: "Red on yellow, kill a fellow; red on black, venom”.