The 3 Types of Rattlesnakes that Live in Iowa and Where to Find Them

If someone were to ask you where in the U.S. you could find rattlesnakes, Iowa probably wouldn't be the first place that comes to mind. However, contrary to popular belief, the Hawkeye State does have numerous rattlesnake species, but you have to know where to look. Or, maybe, where to avoid...

There are three different rattlesnake species found in Iowa and you might be surprised at where you can find them.

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According to A-Z Animals, there are three types of rattlesnakes found in the Hawkeye State:

• Timber rattlesnakes are very common in Iowa. They are one of the most venomous snakes in the United States, but they are shy and avoid humans when possible.

• Prairie rattlesnakes prefer to live in grasslands and open prairie. They often travel a few miles from their dens in search of food. Usually, they do not strike humans unless provoked.

• The massasauga rattlesnake is rare to find in Iowa. These snakes live in a variety of habitats and migrate in the winter.

  • -A-Z Animals Website

Timber Rattlesnakes are, by far, the most common rattlesnake found in Iowa. The majority can be found in the far eastern and southeastern parts of the state, primarily living in wooded areas.

The Prairie Rattlesnake is an endangered species in Iowa and can only be found in the Loess Hills area of the state, specifically the Broken Kettle Grasslands Preserve. These snakes prefer open grasslands and prairies.

And finally, the Massasauga Rattlesnake is extremely rare in the Hawkeye State. However, there have been a few documented sightings in the Cedar Valley area in recent years. The Massasauga can be found in wet grasslands, pastures, and old fields.

To learn more about the three rattlesnakes found in Iowa, check out this article from A-Z Animals.

Story Sources: A-Z Animals, Earth Touch News