The Okanagan and Shuswap regions of British Columbia are home to seven varieties of snake species (there are 35 species in Canada). Most of them are threatened or endangered. All of them are legally protected in British Columbia, meaning that all people are not to harm or harass them.
Venomous
- Northern Pacific Rattlesnake: The only venomous snake in the region, identified by a rattle on the tail, vertical pupils, and a triangular head. They are docile and prefer to avoid humans.
Harmless & Non-Venomous
- Great Basin Gopher Snake: BC's largest snake. Harmless to humans, but will mimic rattlesnakes by hissing, flattening their heads, and vibrating their tails when threatened.
- Northern Rubber Boa: A small, docile snake that feels like a rubber toy. It is a primitive species that is highly secretive and spends much of its time underground.
- Western Yellow-bellied Racer: A fast, slender snake with a distinctive yellow belly that relies on speed to escape danger rather than confrontation.
Garter Snakes
- Common Garter Snake & Western Terrestrial Garter Snake: Small-to-medium sized snakes frequently found near water or moist, brushy areas. They are non-venomous, though they may bite or release a foul smell if handled roughly.
Rare/Elusive
- Night Snake: A small, nocturnal, and endangered snake found primarily in the hot, dry valleys of the South Okanagan. They are mildly venomous (only affecting their small lizard and amphibian prey) but completely harmless to humans.
If You Encounter a Snake:
- Give them space: Move slowly away in the opposite direction. Most bites happen when people attempt to handle or corner them.
- Be aware of your surroundings: When hiking in dry, rocky terrain (especially in the South Okanagan), always watch where you step and place your hands.
- Report sightings: If you encounter the rare Night Snake, consider reporting your observation to local environmental authorities to aid in conservation efforts.
To learn more about local identification and how to safely coexist:
- Okanagan Similkameen Stewardship
- Snakes of the Southern Interior Pictures by Okanagan Similkameen Stewardship
- Snake Smart Brochure from the South Okanagan Similkameen Conservation Program
- Spotlight on Species
- Snakes in BC by British Columbia Magazine
- Gopher Snake of BC, BC Government
- Snakes of Canada Canadian Herpetelogical Society
