Slithering through backyards and wilderness areas across America, some surprisingly massive serpents have made themselves at home in every corner of the country.
When local news outlets report these jaw-dropping discoveries, people can’t help but share the stories across social media, often with a healthy mix of fascination and fear. For many homeowners, these stories raise practical concerns about garden safety and what might be lurking in the woodpile or compost heap.
While most snakes are harmless and actually beneficial for pest control, knowing how to keep the bigger ones at a comfortable distance just makes sense for peace of mind.
1. Texas
A massive 15-foot western diamondback rattlesnake made headlines when ranch hands discovered it near Abilene in 2018. The specimen weighed an estimated 40 pounds and carried enough venom to take down several full-grown cattle.
Local herpetologists confirmed it was nearly twice the average size for the species. The snake had likely reached such an impressive size due to an abundance of prey and lack of predators in the remote ranchland.
If I’d encountered this monster while checking fence lines, I might have reconsidered my career choices entirely. The rattler now resides (preserved) in a natural history museum where visitors frequently underestimate its size until seeing it in person.
2. Florida
Measuring an astounding 18.8 feet long, the largest Burmese python captured in the Everglades set records in 2022. Wildlife officials removed this 215-pound female from the wild as part of ongoing efforts to control the invasive species that’s devastating native wildlife populations.
Inside her digestive tract, researchers found evidence of three white-tailed deer consumed within the previous month. The python had established a territory spanning approximately 20 square miles according to tracking data.
My cousin who works with the removal program told me they needed five people just to safely transport this particular snake. Most disturbing was the discovery of nearly 100 developing eggs inside her—a sobering reminder of their reproductive capacity.
3. Alabama
An eastern indigo snake measuring just over 8.5 feet shocked biologists conducting a survey near Mobile in 2019. This federally protected species rarely reaches such impressive dimensions, making this discovery particularly significant for conservation efforts.
The magnificent specimen weighed approximately 25 pounds and showed signs of being at least 15 years old based on growth patterns. Researchers carefully documented and released the snake as part of a monitoring program tracking the endangered population.
Seeing one this size suggests a healthy, hidden population may be making a comeback in the state’s southern pine forests.
4. Arizona
A record-breaking Sonoran gopher snake stretching 7.4 feet was documented near Tucson in 2017 by university researchers. Though non-venomous, this individual exceeded typical length measurements by nearly two feet, causing quite a stir among herpetology experts.
The snake’s unusual size was attributed to an abundant food supply of ground squirrels and rats near agricultural areas. Its distinctive saddle-shaped blotches were more pronounced than usual, making identification unmistakable despite its extraordinary proportions.
When I saw photos of this snake stretched out next to a standard measuring tape, and I honestly thought they were doctored. The researcher who found it mentioned it was so muscular that it required significant effort to safely handle during documentation.
5. California
A southern Pacific rattlesnake measuring an incredible 6.5 feet was captured in the San Bernardino Mountains in 2020. Park rangers responded to hiker reports about an unusually large serpent sunning itself across a popular trail.
The rattler possessed 17 segments on its rattle, indicating advanced age for the species. Experts estimated it was between 15-20 years old and had claimed a territory spanning several miles of mountainous terrain.
Having encountered my share of rattlesnakes while hiking California trails, I can’t imagine stumbling upon one nearly as long as I am tall—especially one carrying enough venom to require multiple antivenom treatments.
6. Georgia
An eastern kingsnake stretching 7.1 feet long was discovered on a farm outside Savannah in 2016. This exceptional specimen exceeded the average size by nearly three feet, making it the largest documented kingsnake in state history.
The farmer initially mistook it for a fallen tree branch until noticing its distinctive black body with yellow chain-like pattern. Wildlife officials carefully captured and studied the snake before releasing it in a protected wildlife management area.
These beneficial constrictors are known for eating venomous snakes, including rattlesnakes and copperheads. I’d gladly welcome one in my garden despite its intimidating size—they’re essentially nature’s pest control specialists, though admittedly this one would give anyone a momentary heart attack upon first sight.
7. Louisiana
A colossal 14-foot alligator gar was caught by wildlife officials monitoring reptile populations in the Atchafalaya Basin. Wait—that’s a fish! The actual record belongs to a 9.3-foot eastern diamondback water snake found in the swamps near Lake Pontchartrain in 2019.
This water snake, often confused with the venomous cottonmouth, had grown to extraordinary proportions feeding on the abundant fish and amphibian population. Researchers documented the specimen with photographs and measurements before releasing it back into its wetland habitat.
The snake’s body was as thick as a man’s forearm, according to the biologist who handled it. My fishing guide in Louisiana told me they occasionally see massive water snakes in the bayous, but this one apparently “looked like something from a monster movie.”
8. Missouri
A black rat snake measuring an astonishing 8.2 feet was documented by conservation officers near the Ozark National Scenic Riverways in 2021. This non-venomous climber set a new state record, exceeding previous measurements by nearly a foot.
Its glossy black scales showed minimal scarring, suggesting it had successfully avoided predators throughout its estimated 12-15 year lifespan.
After documentation, officers released the snake into protected woodland. My uncle who lives in rural Missouri claims he once found a “six-footer” in his chicken coop, but this specimen makes that story seem almost quaint by comparison. These beneficial predators can consume dozens of disease-carrying rodents annually.
9. North Carolina
A timber rattlesnake measuring 6.2 feet with a girth of 8 inches was documented in the Appalachian Mountains near Asheville in 2018. The magnificent specimen displayed the yellow phase coloration pattern, making it particularly striking against the forest floor.
Park biologists estimated its age at approximately 20 years based on size and rattle segments. The snake was part of a monitored population in a remote section of national forest land rarely visited by hikers.
I spoke with the wildlife photographer who documented this snake, and he mentioned needing to use a telephoto lens from a very respectful distance. The venom yield from a rattlesnake this size could potentially be three times that of an average specimen—definitely not something you’d want to encounter on a narrow mountain trail!
10. New York
An eastern milk snake reaching 5.5 feet in length was found in an old stone foundation near the Catskill Mountains in 2019. Though not venomous, this specimen exceeded typical size expectations by nearly two feet, surprising even experienced herpetologists.
The snake’s distinctive red-brown blotches on a gray background made identification straightforward despite its unusual size. Researchers believe abundant prey and ideal hibernation conditions in the old foundation contributed to its exceptional growth.
After documenting the find, the property owner decided to leave the helpful rodent-controller in place. Having grown up in rural New York, I remember being taught to appreciate milk snakes for keeping mouse populations in check around barns and outbuildings, though I never saw one approaching this impressive size.
11. Michigan
A northern water snake measuring 4.7 feet was documented by university researchers studying wetland ecosystems near Saginaw Bay in 2020. While not venomous, this individual set a new state record for the species, exceeding average size by more than a foot.
The snake’s aggressive defensive behavior when captured—including musking and attempting to bite—was typical of the species despite its unusual dimensions. Researchers noted it was a female that had likely produced multiple clutches of offspring over its estimated 12-year lifespan.
I remember fishing in Michigan as a kid and being terrified of water snakes swimming nearby. If I’d encountered one nearly five feet long, I might have given up fishing altogether! These aquatic hunters primarily feed on fish, frogs, and other small wetland creatures.
12. Tennessee
A gray rat snake stretching an impressive 7.8 feet was discovered in a barn near the Great Smoky Mountains in 2017. The farmer who found it initially thought it was a discarded piece of farm equipment until it moved across the hayloft.
Wildlife officials documented the non-venomous snake, which exceeded typical size by more than two feet. Its exceptional length was attributed to the abundant rodent population in the agricultural setting and estimated age of 12+ years.
After recording measurements, the snake was released into nearby woodland. My grandparents had a farm in eastern Tennessee, and while rat snakes were common visitors to their barn, Grandpa always claimed they were “good neighbors” for controlling mice. This specimen would have tested even his tolerant attitude!
13. Oregon
A Pacific gopher snake measuring 6.4 feet was documented near Bend in 2018, setting a new state record. This impressive specimen was discovered by mountain bikers who initially mistook it for a fallen tree branch across the trail.
The snake’s distinctive blotched pattern and pointed tail (often mistaken for a rattlesnake) made identification straightforward for wildlife officials. Researchers noted the snake appeared to be in excellent health, with a diet likely consisting primarily of ground squirrels and pocket gophers.
I’ve hiked extensively in Oregon and have encountered my share of gopher snakes, but nothing approaching this size. The wildlife biologist who documented this individual mentioned it was so muscular that it required significant effort to safely handle during the measuring process.
14. Colorado
A bullsnake stretching 6.8 feet was documented by park rangers in Dinosaur National Monument in 2019. This impressive specimen exceeded the average size by nearly two feet, creating quite a stir among visitors who spotted it crossing a popular hiking trail.
The snake’s distinctive brown blotches and pointed head (often confused with rattlesnakes) made identification clear for rangers. Despite its intimidating size, bullsnakes are non-venomous constrictors that primarily feed on rodents and ground-nesting birds.
Rangers reported that the snake seemed completely unbothered by human presence, suggesting it had grown accustomed to the park’s foot traffic. My friend who works as a ranger there told me they’ve nicknamed particularly large bullsnakes “dinosaur descendants” in keeping with the park’s theme.
15. Virginia
An eastern ratsnake measuring an extraordinary 7.4 feet was documented in Shenandoah National Park in 2020. Park biologists were conducting routine surveys when they encountered this exceptional specimen sunning itself on a rocky outcrop.
The snake’s glossy black scales and impressive musculature indicated both advanced age and excellent health. Researchers estimated it to be at least 15 years old based on its size and condition.
After documentation, the snake was released at the same location. These beneficial constrictors are exceptional climbers, often ascending trees and entering attics in search of rodents. I’ve had smaller ratsnakes in my own garden, but encountering one this size would certainly give me pause.
16. Oklahoma
A western massasauga rattlesnake measuring 4.2 feet was documented in the tallgrass prairie preserves of northeastern Oklahoma in 2018. While this might seem modest compared to other entries, it’s nearly double the typical size for this species and set a new state record.
Wildlife biologists noted the snake’s exceptionally thick body and well-developed rattle with 15 segments. The specimen was estimated to be approximately 12 years old—remarkably senior for a species that typically lives 8-10 years in the wild.
After documentation, researchers released the snake in a remote section of the preserve. My colleague who participated in this survey mentioned that despite its relatively modest length, this was the most intimidating snake he’d ever handled due to its disproportionately muscular build and potent venom.
17. Keep Your Yard Clear Of Debris
Removing potential snake habitats from your garden dramatically reduces the likelihood of unwanted encounters. Snakes seek shelter in woodpiles, dense vegetation, rock accumulations, and abandoned equipment or materials.
I learned this lesson the hard way after finding a black snake nestled in my neglected compost pile last summer. Regular clean-up of fallen branches, leaves, and garden clutter eliminates perfect hiding spots that attract snakes seeking shelter and hunting grounds.
Store firewood at least 30 inches off the ground and keep grass trimmed to no more than 4 inches tall. Maintaining this level of tidiness not only deters snakes but also reduces populations of rodents and insects that serve as their primary food sources.
18. Install Snake-Proof Fencing
Creating a physical barrier around gardens provides effective protection against slithering visitors of all sizes. The most effective snake fencing is made of 1/4-inch mesh hardware cloth buried at least 6 inches underground and extending 30 inches above ground.
Proper installation requires the fence to be installed at a 30-degree outward angle to prevent climbing. After installing this around my vegetable garden three years ago, I haven’t encountered a single snake inside the perimeter despite regularly seeing them elsewhere on my property.
Remember to keep gates tightly sealed and regularly inspect for damage or gaps. This method works particularly well for defined garden areas rather than entire properties, offering peace of mind without breaking the bank.
19. Use Natural Repellents Strategically
While no repellent offers 100% protection, certain substances can discourage snakes from lingering in your garden spaces. Commercial products containing essential oils like clove and cinnamon have shown moderate effectiveness when applied according to package directions.
Many gardeners swear by spreading sulfur powder or crushed eggshells around garden perimeters. The rough texture irritates snake bellies, making crossing these barriers uncomfortable. I’ve had success using a combination approach, refreshing applications after heavy rain.
Plants like marigold, lemongrass, and wormwood naturally repel snakes through their strong scents. Integrating these throughout your garden creates living barriers that serve double duty as attractive landscape elements while making the area less inviting to serpentine visitors.
20. Eliminate Water Sources And Food Attractions
Addressing what draws snakes to your garden in the first place creates a long-term solution more effective than any repellent. Standing water in birdbaths, pools, or poor drainage areas attracts both snakes and their prey, creating an irresistible ecosystem.
Bird feeders inadvertently become rodent feeders when seeds spill to the ground, creating a buffet that attracts mice and rats—and subsequently, the snakes that hunt them. I switched to no-waste bird seed and installed catchment trays after noticing increased snake activity near my feeders.
Consider raised garden beds with hardware cloth bottoms to prevent burrowing rodents from establishing underground networks. Sealing gaps in sheds, garages, and foundations eliminates entry points for both snakes and the creatures they pursue.