Did you know that there are over 3,000 species of snakes in the world? Out of them, hundreds can be found in North America.

While they usually live in forests and swamps, they can make their way into suburban yards. For example, you might find them under tall grass or weeds in your garden.

Worried that there might be some in your yard? Want to familiarize yourself with some of the most common California snakes? If so, you’re on the right page—we’ll be going over a few common species below.

Keep reading to learn more!

1. Coachwhips 

Coachwhips are non-poisonous snakes that can grow up to 8 feet in length. Long and slender, they have dark-colored heads and large prominent eyes with yellow irises. While eastern subspecies are brown, those found in California tend to be reddish.

Their diet mainly consists of lizards, insects, birds, and small mammals.

They also feed on other snakes, including venomous species. One thing to note is that they don’t passively hunt prey like other snakes. Rather, they’re active hunters.

2. Western Rattlesnakes 

Western rattlesnakes are a type of venomous snake that’s native to North America. Heavy-bodied, they have dark diagonal lines on their faces and diamond-shaped patterns along their backs. Not only that, but they have blunt tails with a rattle at the end.

While they usually avoid humans, they may strike if they feel threatened or surprised. And like most rattlesnakes, their bites can be potentially life-threatening if left untreated.

Given that, you might want to hire snake fencing services from a company such as Diamondback Snake Fencing Co. if they’re active in your area.

3. Sharp-tailed Snake

The sharp-tailed snake is a small, non-poisonous snake that rarely grows beyond 45cm in length. Reddish-brown to grey in color, they spend most of their time under surface objects, especially on sunny days.

For example, you might find them digging under rocks or in leaf litter.

Unlike larger snakes, their diet consists mainly of slugs (they have long, recurved teeth that allow them to grip onto slippery prey). However, they may also feed on insects and earthworms.

4. Gopher Snake

Gopher snakes are long, muscular snakes that can reach up to 9 feet in length. Appearance-wise, they’re cream-colored with black or dark brown patterns on their backs and smaller dark spots along their sides; they also have a couple of dark lines that run from the top of their heads to the sides of their eyes. 

Despite their large size, they’re non-venomous and harmless to humans. In fact, they can help with pest control by eating as slugs, grubs, and mice.

Identifying California Snakes

And there you have it—four California snakes that you might find in your yard. As you can see, most of them are non-poisonous so there’s no need to worry too much. 

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