Yes, there are rattlesnakes in Iowa, but they are rare and found only in specific regions of the state. Iowa is home to two species of rattlesnakes: the Timber Rattlesnake and the Eastern Massasauga. Encounters with these venomous snakes are uncommon, and both species are protected under Iowa law.
Understanding Iowa’s Rattlesnake Species
While Iowa has a diverse snake population, only two species carry the distinctive rattle and venomous bite: the Timber Rattlesnake and the Eastern Massasauga. Both play a vital role in their ecosystems, primarily preying on rodents, but their populations are significantly diminished.
The Timber Rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus)
The Timber Rattlesnake is the more commonly encountered of Iowa’s two rattlesnake species, though "common" is a relative term given its rarity. These snakes are typically found in the blufflands of eastern Iowa along the Mississippi River, as well as in parts of the Loess Hills in western Iowa. They prefer rocky, wooded hillsides, often near bluffs or outcrops, which provide denning sites for hibernation.
Timber Rattlesnakes are large, robust snakes, often reaching lengths of 3 to 5 feet. Their coloration can vary, but they typically have dark crossbands on a lighter background, which can be yellow, gray, or brown. They possess a prominent rattle at the end of their tail, which they use as a warning when disturbed. In Iowa, the Timber Rattlesnake is listed as a threatened species, making it illegal to harass, harm, or kill them.
The Eastern Massasauga (Sistrurus catenatus)
The Eastern Massasauga is significantly rarer and more elusive than the Timber Rattlesnake in Iowa. It is considered critically endangered in the state and is also federally protected. Historically, Massasaugas were found in scattered wetland habitats across the northern half of Iowa. Today, their populations are extremely fragmented, and sightings are exceptionally rare.
Massasaugas are smaller than Timber Rattlesnakes, usually growing to about 2 feet in length. They have a stout body with dark, rounded blotches on a gray or brownish-gray background. Their rattle is smaller and produces a softer, buzzing sound, sometimes referred to as a "faint buzz" or "whisper." Due to their endangered status and specific habitat requirements, encounters with Eastern Massasaugas are highly improbable for most Iowans.
Where Rattlesnakes Live in Iowa
Iowa’s geography contributes to the specific habitats where rattlesnakes can be found. The state is known for its rolling hills, vast agricultural lands, and significant river systems.
The Timber Rattlesnake primarily inhabits the rugged, forested blufflands along the Mississippi River in eastern Iowa. These areas provide the necessary rock crevices and den sites for overwintering. They can also be found in isolated pockets of the Loess Hills in western Iowa, where similar geological features exist. These habitats are often remote and less populated by humans.
The Eastern Massasauga requires specific wetland environments, including fens, wet prairies, and bogs. These habitats have been significantly altered and reduced by agricultural development and drainage projects over the past century, contributing to the snake’s drastic decline. Remaining populations are highly localized and often within protected natural areas.
Protecting Iowa’s Venomous Snakes
Both the Timber Rattlesnake and the Eastern Massasauga are protected species in Iowa. This means it is illegal to collect, harm, or kill them. Their declining numbers are primarily due to habitat loss, fragmentation, and historical persecution. Conservation efforts focus on preserving their remaining habitats and educating the public about their importance.
These snakes play a crucial role in controlling rodent populations, which can carry diseases and damage crops. As predators, they are an integral part of Iowa’s natural ecosystems.
What to Do If You Encounter a Rattlesnake
While rattlesnake encounters are rare in Iowa, especially in urban or suburban areas, it’s wise to know how to react if you come across one in its natural habitat.
Safety Tips for Encounters:
- Give it space: The most important rule is to maintain a safe distance. Rattlesnakes are not aggressive and will only strike if they feel threatened.
- Do not provoke: Never attempt to handle, capture, or kill a rattlesnake. This is when most bites occur.
- Back away slowly: If you see a rattlesnake, slowly and calmly back away from it. Do not make sudden movements.
- Watch your step: When hiking in known rattlesnake habitats, watch where you place your feet and hands. Avoid stepping over logs or rocks without looking first.
- Wear appropriate footwear: Sturdy, high-top boots can offer some protection if you are in an area where rattlesnakes might be present.
- Keep pets on a leash: Dogs are particularly vulnerable to snake bites. Keep them leashed and under control in natural areas.
If a Bite Occurs:
Rattlesnake bites are extremely rare in Iowa, and fatalities are even rarer due to modern medical treatment. However, a bite is a medical emergency.
- Stay calm: Panicking can increase heart rate and spread venom more quickly.
- Seek immediate medical attention: Call 911 or get to the nearest hospital as quickly as possible.
- Remove jewelry and tight clothing: Swelling will occur, so remove anything that could constrict the bitten limb.
- Keep the bitten area still and below heart level: This can help slow the spread of venom.
- Do NOT: Cut the wound, try to suck out venom, apply a tourniquet, or apply ice. These actions can cause more harm than good.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rattlesnakes in Iowa
What are the two types of rattlesnakes found in Iowa?
Iowa is home to the Timber Rattlesnake and the Eastern Massasauga.
Are rattlesnake bites common in Iowa?
No, rattlesnake bites are extremely rare in Iowa. Most encounters occur when people attempt to handle or provoke the snakes.
What should I do if I see a rattlesnake in Iowa?
Give it plenty of space, do not provoke it, and slowly back away. Report sightings of protected species to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources if you are concerned about its location or well-being.
Are rattlesnakes protected in Iowa?
Yes, both the Timber Rattlesnake and the Eastern Massasauga are protected species under Iowa law. It is illegal to harass, harm, or kill them.
Can rattlesnakes be found in every part of Iowa?
No, rattlesnakes are restricted to specific habitats, primarily the blufflands of eastern Iowa and parts of the Loess Hills for Timber Rattlesnakes, and very isolated wetland areas for the Eastern Massasauga. They are not found statewide.
Conclusion
While rattlesnakes do exist in Iowa, they are not a widespread threat to the general public. Both the Timber Rattlesnake and the Eastern Massasauga are rare, protected species with specific habitat requirements. Understanding where they live and how to safely react if an encounter occurs is key. By respecting their space and their role in Iowa’s natural environment, Iowans can coexist with these fascinating, yet often misunderstood, creatures.
