This snake can also eat small fish as well as a range of other invertebrates around bodies of water. If you approach too quickly, Urban warns that the snakemightthink you are targeting it as food, similar to a large bird. In New York, copperheads are most commonly found in the lower Hudson Valley and are less common in the upper regions of the valley. However, its important to remember that snakes can be defensive when they feel threatened. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. Behavior: These snakes prefer to avoid confrontation and will usually only use their venomous bite as a last resort when threatened. The range of the timber rattlesnake extends from southern New Hampshire south through the Appalachian Mountains to northern Florida and west to southeastern Texas and southeastern Nebraska and Wisconsin. It grows to a maximum length of 14 inches, with many snakes of the specie measuring around 10-12 inches. They range across the state. The Maritime Garter Snake, also called Thamnophis sirtalis pallidulus is a subspecies of the Common Garter Snake, a non-venomous serpent found throughout the United States. It also affects its behavior, prompting this reptile to adopt a nocturnal lifestyle. If you suspect that youve been bitten by a copperhead, its best to seek medical attention immediately. North American Racers are also spotted on sandy territories. Diet: They primarily feed on small mammals such as mice and chipmunks, but may also eat birds and other snakes. Adaptable but still relying on its personal preferences, the North American Racer is mostly found around new woodlands. Snake diversity increases when you travel just a bit north or east of NYC. Females of the species are considered even more dangerous as they can be sometimes spotted out in the sun. They are often seen sunning themselves on rocks and other warm surfaces, and are known to climb trees and swim in streams and ponds. Piping plovers begin to arrive at their breeding grounds in New York City around March and stay there . Are there any venomous snakes in New York? Massasaugas are found in Northwestern parts of New York. There are 18 species of snakes in New York. Males are especially active during this time and can be found using basking and gestating habitat and looking for receptive females. While slender and short, this species cannot cover vast grounds as its fossorial. They are also known for their defensive behavior of emitting a foul-smelling musk when handled. It feeds on small slugs and earthworms across woodlands. When a person gets bitten, it doesnt start to hurt immediately. Snakes in New York are known as efficient predators that swallow prey alive. While encountering snakes in the wild may be intimidating to some, it is important to understand these creatures and appreciate their role in the ecosystem.