The vast majority of the more than 40 species of snake found in Oklahoma are nonvenomous, but that does not mean they do not trigger a strong fear response. 
 
Snakes would prefer to avoid people – as much as people want to avoid them – so they can carry on their important ecological work.

“Lots of people are afraid of snakes in general,” said Mark Turner, Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension wildlife specialist. “However, most of the snake species we have in Oklahoma are nonvenomous and not dangerous to people.”

Fortunately, most of the snakes capable of inflicting injury are very docile.  

“Most snakebites can be avoided by simply leaving snakes alone and not putting your hands under rocks, logs, or dense vegetation without looking,” he said.

Note the term is venomous, not poisonous. Venomous animals inject a toxin directly into their prey as opposed to poisonous animals, which contain a toxin within portions of their bodies that causes harm if ingested or touched.  

“There are five rattlesnake species in Oklahoma, which includes the timber, western diamond-backed, prairie, western massasauga and western pygmy,” Turner said. “Most of these are relatively docile and bite only when provoked.”

The copperhead is a common venomous snake in the eastern half of Oklahoma that does occasionally bite noisy dogs and errant hands.  

“Copperhead bites commonly happen when people are moving debris or brush in the yard, as they are not very aggressive snakes,” he said.

It is commonly believed every water snake is a venomous “water-moccasin,” but this is not accurate.  

“The cottonmouth is the only venomous water snake in Oklahoma,” Turner said. “Their white, open mouth posture is often interpreted as aggression but actually represents a defensive posture.”

All snakes provide important ecological services, including those that are venomous. Turner suggests caution when spending time outdoors, and simply walking away from snakes you may encounter. Snakes play important ecosystem roles, including pest control, and harassing or trying to kill the snake is often more dangerous than leaving it alone.