Maine has no native dangerous snake species

Maine is one of only four U.S. states—alongside Alaska, Hawaii, and Rhode Island—that has no native snake species considered dangerous to humans. Wildlife officials recognize nine native snake species in the state, including garter, water, brown, milk, ribbon, racer, red-bellied, ring-necked, and smooth green snakes.

While the ring-necked snake is mildly venomous, it is considered harmless to people. Although timber rattlesnakes were once present in Maine, they were extirpated from the state around 1860 following heavy persecution by settlers. The nearest native venomous snake populations are located in New Hampshire and Massachusetts.