• There are 13 different kinds of rattlesnakes in Arizona.
• Rattlesnakes are particularly common to see from May to October.
• While rattlesnakes have earned a reputation for being dangerous, they generally only attack when they feel threatened.

If you’re an Arizonan, you’ve probably heard the tales of the state’s rattlesnakes or experienced them firsthand.

There are 13 different kinds of rattlesnakes in Arizona. The Arizona ridge-nosed rattlesnake is even the official state reptile. 

Rattlesnakes are particularly common to see from May to October, since the snakes typically hibernate during the colder months.  

While rattlesnakes have earned a reputation for being dangerous, they generally only attack when they feel threatened. You might encounter them while on a hike or even in your backyard, so you might want to watch your step.  

Take a look at these photos of some of Arizona’s different kinds of rattlesnakes.

Which state has the most rattlesnakes?  

You guessed it — Arizona has the most species of rattlesnakes in the country with 13 different kinds of rattlesnakes. 

Texas is next with 10 different species of rattlesnakes. 

What area of Arizona has the most rattlesnakes? 

While rattlesnakes can be spotted all throughout Arizona, there are five places where they’re particularly common:  

• Sonoran Desert
• Chiricahua Mountains
• Superstition Mountains
• Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument
• Grand Canyon region

Rattlesnakes are generally more common in areas with lower elevation. So, if you’re afraid, you might want to head north to Flagstaff.