BEWARE: The Most Rattlesnake Infested Areas in Indiana

Indiana is home to two types of rattlesnakes, and you have a better chance of encountering one if you find yourself in these areas of the Hoosier State.

It's no secret that I am very afraid of snakes. That being said, I do understand are some benefits to keeping them around. However, if I were to see one in my yard, I would instinctively run away. The fact that I am even writing about a snake right now is baffling to me. Of course, this isn't the first time we have talked about snakes. In the past, some other snake-related articles have included: the four venomous snakes found in Indiana, the biggest snake found in Indiana, DIY repellants to keep snakes out of your yard, the most snake-infested lakes in Indiana, and an Indiana venomous snake that smells like cucumbers.

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Now, as much as it's going to creep me out, let's talk about rattlesnakes. Normally, the only rattlesnake that you'll hear me talk about is the Texas Rattlesnake, Stone Cold Steve Austin. However, there are two types of rattlesnakes found in Indiana. To me, it's kind of interesting because Indiana isn't really a state in which you would expect to find rattlesnakes. That being said, they are here, and this is where you are most likely to find them.

Where are Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnakes Commonly Found in Indiana?

The Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake is a federally threatened species that prefers wetter habitats like edges of lakes, marshy grasslands, and forested swamplands. They can also be found in dry prairies. According to Animals A-Z:

Eastern Massasauga rattlesnakes are most common from April through November. In the spring and fall, they often bask in the sun to warm their cold-blooded bodies. During the winter months, they hibernate or brumate in crayfish burrows, rock crevices, and old stumps to stay warm.

Eastern Massasauga rattlesnakes are 18 to 30 inches long. These snakes are often gray with dark brown or black blotches along their backs and sides. This cryptic coloration helps Massasaugas to blend in as they hide amid shadows and natural debris.

These snakes are not known for being especially aggressive. In fact, Animals A-Z says that most Massasaugas are shy and prefer to hide by blending into their surroundings. However, these snakes have very toxic venom, so if they feel threatened, it's best to stay away from them.

Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnakes are most commonly found in the northern third of Indiana. Counties where these rattlesnakes have been found include:

• Porter
• LaPorte
• Elkhart
• LaGrange
• Steuben
• Marshall
• Kosciusko
• Allen
• Carroll

Where are Timber Rattlesnakes Commonly Found in Indiana?

The Timber Rattlesnake is a state endangered species that is typically found in well-developed oak hickory forests in steeply dissected ridge/valley terrain. According to Animals A-Z:

You are most likely to see a timber rattlesnake in Indiana during their breeding season in July and August when male snakes are out searching for mates. The venom of a timber rattlesnake is toxic and deadly, but these snakes are not quick to attack or bite. In general, timber rattlesnakes are calm and docile, and do their best to avoid humans. They primarily eat gray squirrels, eastern chipmunks, and birds in Indiana.

Timber rattlesnakes have large, bulky bodies that are 24 to 48 inches long on average, although many have been known to grow even larger. These snakes have strongly keeled or ridged scales that give their bodies a rough texture. Timber rattlesnakes in Indiana are mainly yellow, with dark chevron crossbands spaced out along the length of their bodies. Their tails are black just before the rattle. However, since baby rattlesnakes do not have full rattles yet, and older rattlesnakes may lose their rattles, this is not always a surefire way to identify a rattlesnake.

 

The Timber Rattlesnake is found in south central Indiana and has been spotted in the following counties:

• Brown
• Monroe
• Morgan
• Tippecannoe
• Perry
• Jackson
• Washington

While these areas are where you will find the rattlesnakes that reside in Indiana, it's not often that you'll encounter one. However, it does happen on occasion. So, if you see a rattlesnake, do not panic. Most of the time, people are bitten by rattlesnakes because they are accidentally stepped on. Just be aware of your surroundings. If you see a rattlesnake in the wild, stay back, least six feet or more and leave it alone. If you are bitten by a rattlesnake, it is important to stay calm and get medical attention as soon as possible.