Only three of the twenty-one native snake species that are known to exist in Pennsylvania: the Eastern Copperhead, the Timber Rattlesnake, and the Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake, are potentially poisonous.
In spite of the fact that snakes are uncommon in urban settings due to the lack of resources that can sustain them, they are nevertheless capable of accidentally entering populated regions.
Locals and visitors alike may experience apprehension when they are in the presence of snakes, despite the fact that snakes are not harmful and, if left alone, will assist in the management of local rodent populations.
The following is a list of the counties and regions in Pennsylvania that have the highest prevalence of snake populations. Continue reading to learn about the species that call that location home and the reasons behind the high population density of those species.
Counties in Delaware
In spite of the fact that there are eight different species of snakes that have been identified in the Delaware River, the Eastern Garter snake is the most prevalent species, with 153 confirmed sightings.
There have never been any reports of researchers discovering any deadly snakes in the river. In the past, the presence of a large number of snakes has been attributed to the presence of water and humidity in the environment, which provided an excellent habitat for them.
The destruction of habitat has led to a significant reduction in the number of snake species, and it is likely that continued efforts to urbanize the landscape will also lead to a significant reduction in the diversity of all amphibians and reptiles.
As a matter of good fortune, there are still a great number of natural reserves that offer a place of residence for these remarkable species. Some of these reserves include Hildacy, Rose Tree, and Ridley Creek.
The County of Philadelphia
Snakes thrive in the humid subtropical environment of Philadelphia County, particularly in the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge. This environment is great for protecting snakes.
There are seven different kinds of snakes that are known to live in this region; the most common ones are the Eastern Gartersnake and the Dekay’s Brownsnake. None of these snakes could be considered poisonous.
Only 42 of the 597 snakes that have been documented since the year 2023 are from that year.
It is possible to observe snakes pursuing mice in the vicinity of residences and docks as a result of the bustling urban waterfronts.
Researchers recommend that homeowners fix holes and keep plants at a short height in order to deter both snakes and rats from entering their homes.
Despite the fact that they can be frightening, snakes in Philadelphia have the potential to be highly beneficial to civilization if they are permitted to continue existing without being harmed.
The county of Lancaster
Along the Susquehanna River, which is located on the outskirts of Lancaster County, snakes such as the uncommon Northern Rough Greensnake and the common Northern Watersnake are able to find the right moist environment and humid climate.
According to Lancaster County’s records, the Copperhead is the only snake that is known to be poisonous.
This year, there were only 25 new snake records entered, out of a total of 791 snakes that have been reported in research surveys conducted in the state of Pennsylvania.
It is possible that this drop is the result of a number of things, such as the destruction of human habitats or generally increased temperatures. When it comes to maintaining the ecological equilibrium in this region, snakes play a crucial role.
Country of Pike
The Lake Wallenpaupack area is the most infested location in Pike County since it is the location where Northern Watersnakes are most numerous.
Snakes and other amphibians can be found in plenty in the area’s many ponds, lakes, and marshes, which are all located inside the county.
In spite of the fact that Northern Watersnakes do not possess any harmful properties, their saliva contains anticoagulant properties. Wildlife experts recommend that you avoid handling them because of their aggressive nature and their extremely strong teeth.
It has been documented that there have been just as many venomous Timber Rattlesnakes in the region, despite the fact that they are normally more difficult to spot and prefer to reside in more hilly places.
Reports of bites from Timber Rattlesnakes are extremely rare, and the severity of their bites is not comparable to that of Northern Watersnakes.
If someone is bitten by a venomous snake, they should seek medical help as soon as possible, avoid using ice, and stop from using any over-the-counter medicines. This is the advice given by specialists.
Counties of Warren
In the state of Pennsylvania, the Allegheny River in Warren County is considered to be one of the most snake-infested areas. As you make your way along the river, you will frequently come across Northern Watersnakes and Greensnakes crawling.
Recently, there has been a rise in the number of Timber Rattlesnakes in the region, as evidenced by the fact that there were seven recorded occurrences in 2023 out of a total of only 35 reports. The results of research studies have revealed that there have been 1,430 recorded sightings of snakes in Warren County, which represent 11 different species to far.
Among the many factors that contribute to the high number of snakes, one of them is the humid continental environment.
Due to the fact that, unlike mammals, snakes are unable to regulate their body temperature, they require warm weather in order to be active in the hunting process. Because of their cold-blooded nature, snakes may occasionally be drawn to warm urban locations such as wood heaps and radiators. This is because snakes dislike the heat.
It is recommended that residents make an effort to maintain any fuel that is evenly placed 12 inches above the ground in order to deter snakes.
