Quick Answer
Michigan has 18 species of snakes, of which only one is venomous: the Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake, which is a federally threatened species found in wet meadows, marshes, and swamps in the Lower Peninsula. It is small (1.5-2.5 ft), gray with dark blotches, and has a small rattle. All other Michigan snakes are harmless. Common non-venomous species include the Eastern Garter Snake, the Northern Water Snake, the Blue Racer, and the Eastern Fox Snake.
Michigan Snake Identification Guide
Michigan's snake population is remarkably safe — only one venomous species exists, and it is shy and rarely encountered. Learning to identify the massasauga is important for conservation as well as safety.
Venomous Snakes of Michigan
| Species | Size | Range | Key Features | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eastern Massasauga | 1.5-2.5 ft | Lower Peninsula, wet meadows | Gray with dark blotches, small rattle, heat-sensing pits | Federally threatened, protected |
Common Non-Venomous Snakes
| Species | Size | Color | Habitat | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eastern Garter Snake | 1.5-3 ft | Dark with yellow stripes | Statewide, gardens | Most common Michigan snake |
| Northern Water Snake | 2-4 ft | Dark brown, banded | Near water, statewide | Harmless, often mistaken for venomous |
| Blue Racer | 3-5 ft | Solid blue-gray | Open fields, southern MI | Fast, diurnal, harmless |
| Eastern Fox Snake | 3-5 ft | Tan with dark blotches | Marshes, farmlands, lower MI | Mimics rattlesnake (tail vibration) |
| Eastern Milk Snake | 2-3 ft | Gray with brown blotches | Rural areas, barns | Harmless constrictor |
| Smooth Green Snake | 12-20 inches | Bright green | Meadows, moist areas | Docile, insect-eater |
Massasauga Identification Tips
- Small size (1.5-2.5 ft) — one of the smallest rattlesnakes
- Gray or light brown with dark brown blotches on the back
- Small rattle on the tail (often difficult to hear)
- Vertical pupils (cat-like)
- Heat-sensing pits between eye and nostril
- Found in wet meadows, prairies, and marshes
- Shy and non-aggressive — will flee if given the chance
FAQ: Michigan Snakes
Are there rattlesnakes in the Upper Peninsula?
No. The Eastern Massasauga is only found in the Lower Peninsula. There are no venomous snakes in the Upper Peninsula.
What should I do if I see a massasauga?
Leave it alone. It is a federally threatened species and is protected by law. Do not kill or harm it. Report sightings to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
Professional Wildlife Removal in Michigan
If you need professional wildlife removal or pest control services in Michigan, our local guides cover the following cities:
- Detroit, MI — Wildlife & Pest Identification Guide
For help identifying the specific animal causing damage in your yard, see our What Animal Is Digging Holes in My Michigan Yard? guide.
Sources: US Fish and Wildlife Service, USDA Wildlife Services, state wildlife agencies, CDC, academic extension services. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional wildlife management advice.