Arizona named America's venomous snake capital

While snakes inhabit much of the United States, their variety and concentration differ significantly by region. Colder climates like Alaska have no native snakes, while tropical settings like Hawaii are also exceptions. The remaining states host a mix of harmless and venomous species, sparking debate over which state boasts the most venomous reptiles.

Texas leads the nation in the sheer number of snake species recorded within its borders. Its vast size and varied landscapes, from coastal marshes to deserts, support over a hundred snake species and subspecies. Among these are fifteen venomous snakes, including Western diamondbacks, copperheads, cottonmouths, and coral snakes.

However, when focusing solely on venomous species, Arizona emerges as the leader. Its dry deserts, rocky slopes, and mountain ranges provide ideal conditions for pit vipers, especially rattlesnakes. Arizona is home to approximately twenty venomous species and subspecies, the highest tally in the country.

The majority of Arizona's venomous reptiles are rattlesnakes, with thirteen recognized species found there, about a third of all known rattlesnake species globally. Although Arizona has fewer snake species overall than Texas, a larger proportion of its reptiles are venomous, earning it the title of America's venomous snake capital.