1. Eastern Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis)

Size: Eastern Garter Snakes are relatively small, averaging between 18 to 26 inches (45-65 cm) in length.
Venomous: Non-venomous

The Eastern Garter Snake is one of the most common snakes found in the Adirondacks. It has a slender body with three distinct longitudinal stripes running along its back. These snakes are excellent climbers and can often be found near bodies of water, in meadows, or even in wooded areas.

2. Northern Ringneck Snake (Diadophis punctatus edwardsii)

Size: Northern Ringneck Snakes are small, measuring between 10 to 15 inches (25-38 cm) in length.
Venomous: Mildly Venomous

With its reddish-orange or yellow belly and a grayish-black back, the Northern Ringneck Snake is a beautiful yet slightly venomous species. They are predominantly nocturnal and often found hiding under rocks, logs, or in leaf litter.

3. Eastern Milk Snake (Lampropeltis triangulum triangulum)

Size: Eastern Milk Snakes can grow up to 24 to 36 inches (61-91 cm) in length.
Venomous: Non-venomous

Known for their vibrant colors and smooth scales, Eastern Milk Snakes are often mistaken for Copperheads due to their similar appearance. These harmless snakes can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, fields, and near farm areas.

4. Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake (Sistrurus catenatus catenatus)

Size: Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnakes can reach lengths between 24 to 30 inches (61-76 cm).
Venomous: Venom

The Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake is the only venomous snake species found in the Adirondacks. It has a distinctive dark brown or gray color with a series of dark blotches along its back. The rattlesnake gets its name from the rattle on the end of its tail, which it uses as a warning signal when feeling threatened.

Encountering an Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake can be dangerous, and it’s important to give these snakes their space and avoid any interaction. If you come across one in the wild, it is best to slowly and calmly move away from it.

5. Common Five-lined Skink (Eumeces fasciatus)

Size: Common Five-lined Skinks can grow up to 5 to 8 inches (13-20 cm) in length.
Venomous: Non-venomous

The Common Five-lined Skink is a lizard species found in the Adirondacks. It has a smooth, shiny body and five distinct stripes running along its back. These skinks are usually found in wooded areas, near rocks or logs, and are known for their quick movements and ability to shed their tails when threatened.

6. Common Gartersnake (Thamnophis sirtalis)

Size: Common Gartersnakes are relatively small, averaging between 18 to 26 inches (45-65 cm) in length.
Venomous: Non-venomous

The Common Gartersnake is another snake species commonly found in the Adirondacks. It has a slender body with three longitudinal stripes, similar to the Eastern Garter Snake. These snakes can be observed in a variety of habitats, including wetlands, meadows, and forest edges.

7. Common Ribbonsnake (Thamnophis saurita saurita)

Size: Common Ribbonsnakes are small, measuring between 20 to 30 inches (51-76 cm) in length.
Venomous: Non-venomous

The Common Ribbonsnake is a slender snake with a dark-colored body and a yellow or white stripe running along its back. These snakes are often found near water sources, such as ponds, streams, or marshy areas.

8. Dekay’s Brown Snake (Storeria dekayi)

Size: Dekay’s Brown Snakes are small, averaging between 7 to 12 inches (18-30 cm) in length.
Venomous: Non-venomous

Dekay’s Brown Snake is a small snake species that can be found in various habitats, including woodlands, gardens, and wet areas. It has a brown coloration with a row of darker spots along its back.

9. Red-Bellied Snake (Storeria occipitomaculata)

Size: Red-Bellied Snakes are small, measuring between 7 to 12 inches (18-30 cm) in length.
Venomous: Non-venomous

The Red-Bellied Snake is a small snake species that can be found in various habitats within the Adirondacks. It has a brown or grayish-brown coloration with a distinctive red or orange belly, giving it its name. These snakes are often found hiding under leaf litter or debris, and they feed primarily on insects and small invertebrates.

Encountering a Red-Bellied Snake can be a delightful experience, as they are known for their gentle nature and non-aggressive behavior. As with other snakes, it is important to observe them from a safe distance and avoid any actions that may disturb their natural habitat.

10. Northern Watersnake (Nerodia sipedon sipedon)

Size: Northern Watersnakes can grow between 24 to 55 inches (61-140 cm) in length.
Venomous: Non-venomous

The Northern Watersnake is another snake species that can be found in the Adirondacks. It has a dark-colored body with dark crossbands or blotches along its back. These snakes are often observed near water bodies, such as lakes, rivers, or marshes. They are known to be excellent swimmers and are skilled at catching fish and amphibians.

Encountering a Northern Watersnake can be an exciting experience, but it’s important to remember that they are harmless and pose no threat to humans. As with all wildlife, it’s best to observe them from a safe distance and avoid any interaction that may disturb their natural behavior.

Remember, snakes play an important role in maintaining the ecological balance of the Adirondack Park. They help control populations of rodents and other small animals, contributing to the overall health of the ecosystem. So, while it’s important to respect and be cautious around venomous species, it’s equally important to appreciate the value of snakes in their natural habitats.