This site is supported by our readers. We may earn a commission, at no cost to you, if you purchase through links.
Do you know the laws governing killing snakes in your state? It’s important to be aware of these regulations before deciding whether or not it’s legal for you to kill a snake.
The Endangered Species Act of 1973 protects threatened species, and most states have their own rules on hunting snakes.
In this article, we’ll explore federal and state laws regarding killing venomous and nonvenomous snakes by U.S. State. We’ll cover Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, and California. Additionally, we’ll discuss fines for breaking such laws and provide tips on creating a snake-friendly habitat on your land.
So if you’re interested in finding out what is legally allowed when it comes to killing reptiles, then read on!
Table Of Contents
Key Takeaways
- The Federal Endangered Species Act protects 9 snake species nationwide with fines up to $50K and 1-year prison for killing.
- State laws vary on killing snakes, with some states having a total ban on killing snakes, while others have limits on the number and size of snakes that can be killed.
- Invasive non-native snake species such as pythons and boas are often legal to kill, but it is important to avoid harming native species.
- Native snake species play a crucial role in controlling rodents and maintaining ecosystem balance, making it important to provide food, shelter, and safety for them.
Federal Laws on Killing Snakes
You need to be mindful of the rules when it comes to these threatened animals – fines and prison time can occur if you don’t follow the federal regulations. The Federal Endangered Species Act protects nine species of snakes nationwide; therefore, individuals must understand their state’s law on killing them.
States regulate snake hunting by designating certain snakes as non-game animals or impose bag limits with four categories of laws:
- There is a total ban on killing in NJ, RI, TN, VA & WA.
- Venomous snakes are not protected in AL, CA, FL, GA, LA, MA, MI, MS, MT, NV, NC, OK, SC, TX, and WY.
- All snakes are protected in AR, CO, IA, IL, IN, KS, MN, MO, NE, NM, NY, OH, OR, PA, UT, and WI.
- There are limited number/size killed laws in AZ, ID, NM, OK, PA, UT, and WV.
In addition, possession limits exist in Wisconsin & California while transporting is prohibited across state lines. However, invasive non-native snakes are often legal to kill, such as pythons & boas, but avoid harming native species unless safety is a concern.
Native species help control rodent populations and maintain balance within an ecosystem, like in Tennessee where 34 kinds live, including 4 poisonous types. Killing native species is only allowed during the season; otherwise, use a hose instead, which also practices safety first.
Fines for Killing Snakes
Fines for violating the Endangered Species Act by killing protected snakes can be as high as $50,000 and/or a year in prison. There are nine species that are federally protected. The fines may vary depending on the type of snake killed and which state it was killed in; however, they all carry a hefty penalty if one is caught breaking the law.
- Smooth green snake – found throughout much of North America, these small but bright-colored serpents often live near water sources or wetlands.
- Ribbon snakes – this long slender species mostly lives near water sources like ponds or swamps and can range from three to seven feet long! Killing one could result in severe legal action being taken against an offender due to their level of protection under endangered species laws nationwide.
- Black rat snake – commonly found across most states east of the Mississippi River, these large constrictors play an important role in controlling rodent populations, so they should not be disturbed without good reason such as safety concerns for people or pets living nearby.
- Copperbelly Water Snake – native to states along the Ohio River Basin region such as Indiana (IN), Kentucky (KY), Illinois (IL), and Michigan (MI). It’s illegal to kill copperbelly watersnakes due to their status as a Threatened Species according to federal USFWS guidelines per the ESA 1973 legislation passed by Congress.
In order to maintain the balance of the ecosystem and habitat preservation, it is wise to avoid disrupting nature unnecessarily, especially when it comes to harming creatures listed in the Endangered Species Act.
Snake Killing Laws by State
The laws on killing snakes vary greatly between states. In Alabama, it is illegal to kill any venomous snake without a permit. In Alaska, all species of snakes are protected from hunting and killing. In Arizona, there are limits on the number and size of snakes that can be killed.
Arkansas has a total ban on killing snakes with some exceptions for cases where safety is threatened. California also protects all species of snakes while also imposing possession limits for live ones.
Alabama
In Alabama, venomous snakes are identified and protected from hunting. There are five species of rattlesnakes in the state: Eastern Diamondback, Western Pygmy, Massasauga Rattlesnake, Timber Rattlesnake, and Canebrake.
Additionally, the Indigo Snake is also a protected snake. Common Garter Snakes can be hunted with limits on the numbers taken each day or seasonally, depending on the location within the state. Hunting for any type of non-venomous snake without a permit could result in fines or jail time if caught by game wardens patrolling wildlife areas throughout Alabama.
Alaska
No snakes are protected by law in Alaska, so what can you do if one crosses your path? The Federal Endangered Species Act does not apply. State regulations vary; some designate snakes as nongame animals with bag limits or total bans on killing them.
Exceptions exist for invasive species and threats to safety, but always practice safety first! Avoid killing all snake species unless necessary due to the potential legal consequences of doing so.
Arizona
Arizona has limits on the number and size of snakes you can take, so be mindful when interacting with these creatures. The state is home to five venomous species: Eastern Indigo Snake, Massasauga Rattlesnake, Northern Copperhead, Plains Hognose Snake, and Timber Rattlesnakes.
It’s important to accurately identify them before killing one as it may lead to hefty fines or even imprisonment.
Arkansas
In Arkansas, all snakes are protected by state law – so it’s important to take extra care when encountering them. To hunt legally in the state, you need a valid hunting license and must follow regulations outlined in the official Arkansas Hunting Guidebook.
Killing any snake can result in fines of up to $50,000 or even jail time if animal attacks occur.
California
California protects all of its snakes, respecting their role in a balanced ecosystem. The common garter snake and the eastern indigo snake are among those protected by state law. Violation of hunting laws will incur hefty fines of up to $50,000 or jail time for breaking the law.
Protecting these species is essential for maintaining our natural environment so it can be enjoyed by generations to come.
Nonvenomous Snakes
You should be aware that some states offer protection to all snakes, while others allow you to take a limited number and size of nonvenomous ones.
For example, in Arkansas, Colorado, Iowa, Illinois, and many other states, all native snake species are protected from being killed or collected. On the other hand, there are places such as Arizona where citizens may harvest up to five garter snakes per day with no possession limit on them.
In Nevada, it is legal only for residents over 12 years old to collect two non-venomous snakes per person each day, but they cannot exceed 24 inches in length when measured from head-to-tail tip.
It’s important also to note that these regulations apply mainly to native snake species found within the state borders. So, if an individual wishes to remain compliant with their local laws, they must first identify what types of reptiles inhabit their area before attempting any sort of collection activity related to them.
Aside from protecting your own safety at all times when encountering a wild animal like this one, always remember that even though it might be permissible by law, it doesn’t necessarily make killing or collecting any kind of animal ethically acceptable.
So, use discretion accordingly whenever possible, regardless of whether you’re dealing with venomous or nonvenomous native snake species alike.
Creating Snake-Friendly Habitat on Your Land
Creating a snake-friendly habitat on your land is an important step in protecting native snakes and promoting their health.
- Shelter: Provide cover for the endangered snake species, such as the northern black racer, butler’s garter snake, or eastern ribbon snake, by adding rocks, logs, or other natural debris to create hiding spaces and basking spots.
- Food Supply: Ensure that there are enough food sources available for all of these creatures by planting vegetation like grasses and wildflowers that attract insects, which serve as prey for them.
- Safety from Predators: Protect massasauga rattlesnakes from predators like hawks, coyotes, or foxes by keeping cats indoors at night, where they can’t hunt near your home.
Be mindful when creating an inviting environment so it doesn’t become too attractive to snakes looking to hibernate through cold winter months! If necessary, take steps such as removing woodpiles far away from your foundation walls.
Be aware of the potential risks before taking any action, with local wildlife laws in mind.
With proper planning, you can create a safe space on your property while also helping protect threatened animals who depend upon it, allowing both humans and non-human animals alike to benefit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are there any exceptions to the laws on killing snakes?
Exceptions may exist, depending on the state. In some places, like Tennessee and Wisconsin, for example, it is illegal to kill snakes outside of certain seasons or with possession limits; however, in other states, invasive species are excluded from protection.
Use caution when dealing with any snake as fines can be issued regardless of species. Spice up your writing by using a metaphor such as snakes should remain untouched – like sleeping dragons.
How do I know if a snake is venomous or not?
Identifying a venomous snake can be tricky, like finding a needle in a haystack. Look for features such as triangular-shaped heads, slit pupils, and heat-sensing pits on their faces to help distinguish them from nonvenomous snakes.
Are there any laws regarding the possession of live snakes?
Yes! In Wisconsin and California, there are possession limits on live snakes. Additionally, the transport of snakes across state lines is prohibited.
How can I tell the difference between native and non-native snakes?
To distinguish between native and non-native snakes, conduct research on the snake species present in your area. Look for distinctive characteristics such as coloration, size, and shape to aid in identification.
If necessary, utilize online resources or seek guidance from a local expert. Prioritize your safety during the process.
What should I do if I encounter a snake in my yard?
Remain calm if you come across a snake in your yard. Identify the species and research local laws to determine whether it is native or non-native. If possible, safely remove it with a shovel and relocate; otherwise, use water from a hose to scare it away.
Conclusion
In a nutshell, it’s important to understand the federal and state laws on killing snakes before you take action. As the old saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. It is essential to know the regulations on killing snakes by state to avoid hefty fines and possible jail time, especially when it comes to the nine species of snakes federally protected under the Endangered Species Act.
Non-native, invasive species may be legal to kill in some states, but it’s always best to think twice before taking action.
Ultimately, it’s beneficial to protect native snakes and their habitats, as they play an important role in our environment.
