Is It Illegal to Kill a Rattlesnake in Arizona?

If you live in Arizona, you'll likely run into a rattlesnake sooner or later. We're known around the world for our unique flora and fauna.

The beauty and texture of the desert is fascinating, but some of the critters in our state can be daunting.

One of the most critical parts of the desert ecosystem is snakes. They are both predators and prey. Snakes keep rodent and insect populations down and provide food for prey birds, like hawks and eagles.

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What is the Most Venomous Snake in Arizona?

Arizona's snakes are fascinating. Arizona is home to 21 venomous snake species, according to SnakeSnuggles.com.  

The most famous snake in our state is the Western Diamondback (Crotalus atrox), which causes the most snake-bite deaths in the country.

The reptile with the most lethal venom in Arizona is the Mojave Rattlesnake (Crotalus scutulatus). This rattler is not only the most venomous snake in Arizona but also the most lethal snake in the entire US.

READ: Who Wins a Fight Between a Sun Spider & a Scorpion?

Drop for drop, the Mojave Rattlesnake's venom is more toxic than the Western Diamondback's. The Diamondback is encountered more often than the Mojave, and it's responsible for more fatalities. 

What to Do if You Encounter a Rattlesnake in Arizona

It's easy to appreciate snakes as long as they're "out there" in the desert, away from homes, animals, children, and livestock. As humans encroach on desert habitats, crossing paths with a rattlesnake is not unusual

What should you do if you encounter a rattlesnake? Since snakes don't go looking for a fight, your best bet is to keep a safe distance.

READ: What Kind of Snake is that in My Arizona Yard?

Avoid provoking it and remove anything or anyone that could become a threat to the snake - dogs and kids should go somewhere safe. Rattlesnakes are not typically aggressive and go out of their way to avoid humans and animals as much as possible. What happens if you can't get it to leave your property?

Is It Legal to Kill a Rattlesnake in Arizona?

The question is often asked: is it legal to kill a rattlesnake in Arizona? According to Arizona Game and Fish, it depends.

1. Rattlesnake Species: Western Diamondback Rattlesnakes, for example, are prevalent, common game species. They can be hunted during designated open seasons with a valid Arizona hunting license. Endangered and threatened species like the Banded Rock Rattlesnake or the Santa Catalina Massasauga have special protection. Killing these snakes is illegal.
2. Your Intentions Matter: Just because you find a rattlesnake on your property doesn't mean you can kill it. Arizona law protects rattlesnakes from “wasteful take.”. They can't be killed unless there's a legitimate reason. If a rattlesnake is a legitimate threat to your safety or your property, it's not illegal.

READ: Meet the Cochise County Snake Guys!

The best action is to leave the rattlesnake alone if it isn't actively threatening you or your property. Call professionals, like The Snake Guys in Cochise County, who remove and relocate snakes safely, or contact your local fire department.

Sources:  Vet Explains Pets | Reptiles Blog | AZ Central | Hikers Daily | AZ Animals | Wikipedia | CheckLegality.com | Arizona Game and Fish