If you’re in Wyoming and would like to know what venomous snakes to expect this summer, you’re in luck. The state has only two venomous species of snakes and both are rattlesnakes. In this article, you will discover Wyoming’s 2 largest and most dangerous snakes this summer.
Prairie Rattlesnake
Prairie rattlesnakes are venomous pit vipers found in Wyoming, as well as other parts of northwestern America. These snake species are famed hunters and this is thanks to their unique abilities. The prairie rattlesnake has eyes that are designed to sense incredibly slight movements. This, in addition to its heat-sensing pits, makes it a formidable hunter. Prairie rattlesnakes can detect movement about 40 feet away. They also have excellent senses of smell. Even when blind, these rattlesnakes can strike accurately. They smell using both their external nostrils and their tongues. They prey on small mammals and are preyed upon by large birds such as hawks and larger snakes. Prairie rattlesnakes aren’t born with their rattles and have a tiny nub in its place instead. They grow a segment each time they shed their skin. They are also slow to reach sexual maturity and do not mate until they are 4 or 5 years old. While males might attempt to mate each year, females only mate once every 2 to 3 years. Despite their lethal venom, prairie rattlesnakes prefer to stay hidden. They are known to be unaggressive and almost reluctant to strike. When spotted, they prefer to lie still in a bid to camouflage into their surroundings. However, despite its unaggressive nature, a prairie rattlesnake can and will bite if it feels threatened.
Prairie Rattlesnakes Venom
Prairie rattlesnakes are known for their incredibly toxic venom which is strong enough to kill a person. Their venom contains powerful neurotoxins and hemotoxins. Luckily, they are not aggressive and prefer not to strike. Before they strike, they are known to shake their rattles in a warning. A bite from a prairie rattlesnake can be lethal and should be treated as an emergency.
Where are Prairie Rattlesnakes Found in Wyoming?
According to the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, prairie rattlesnakes are found west of the Great Divide Basin, in Carbon County specifically. They are also found in counties east of the Continental Divide.
How to Identify Prairie Rattlesnake in Wyoming
When identifying prairie rattlesnakes, look out for their light brown color. This might be hard as they are known to camouflage expertly. They usually have dark brown patches with tan or white borders. They have thin necks and triangular heads. Prairie rattlesnakes are known to grow from 35-45 inches in length. Weight-wise, they measure from 0.5 to 0.8 pounds.
Midget Faded Rattlesnake
Also known as the yellow or faded rattlesnake, midget faded rattlesnakes are small and highly venomous pit vipers found in Wyoming. Despite being one of the smallest rattlesnakes, this species does a great job at protecting itself. Midget faded rattlesnakes are known to reach a maximum length of 2 ½ feet, with the average being 2 feet. These snakes are extremely peaceful and are known to only strike when they really need to or are scared. When disturbed, they are not quick to bite. They will attempt to lay low and escape. Midget faded rattlesnakes will also rattle their tails to warn of their presence or ward off predators. According to research, midget faded rattlesnakes feed primarily on lizards, small mammals, and birds. These snakes are known to camouflage into their surroundings really well. This makes it difficult to spot them. Midget faded rattlesnakes seem to take extra care to avoid being spotted, so if you’re not carefully looking for one, you’re not likely to find it. Female midget faded rattlesnakes are known to mate only once in two to four years. When they are pregnant, they do not move far from their dens. Instead, they use communal thermoregulation until they give birth. In the state of Wyoming, they are regarded as protected. This means it is illegal to capture, trade, or kill these snakes. However, due to their venom, they are killed occasionally.
Midget Faded Rattlesnake Venom
Midget faded rattlesnakes have one of the most dangerous and toxic venom in North America. Their venom contains a potent and uncommon neurotoxin that attacks and destroys muscle tissue. The level of venom present is determined by the snake’s size. Midget faded rattlesnake bites are emergencies and should be treated as one.
Where are Midget Faded Rattlesnakes Found in Wyoming?
Midget faded rattlesnakes are found in rocky and cliffy covering along the Green River as well as south of Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge.
How to Identify Midget Faded Rattlesnake in Wyoming
Midget faded rattlesnakes in Wyoming can be identified by their cream to yellowish-brown colors. They have rectangular or oval light brown blotches that are often irregular. The blotches begin to look very similar to bands around their tails and rattles.
What To Do If You See a Snake in Wyoming
If you see a snake in Wyoming, remember to remain calm. The venomous snakes in Wyoming hardly strike and prefer to escape. Stay calm and exit calmly. Remember that sudden movements can threaten and agitate snakes. Once you are at a safe distance, contact Wyoming’s pest services
What To Do If You Get Bitten by A Snake in Wyoming
Wyoming’s venomous snakes are known for having potent venom, so if you get bitten, treat the situation as an emergency. Contact emergency services immediately and stay calm. Pacing or walking around can help the venom spread. Do not attempt to cut off the bitten parts or suck out the venom as you’ll likely worsen the situation. Luckily, snake bites are a rarity in Wyoming.
