How To Stay Safe From MT’s Poisonous / Venomous Animals

BUTTE, MT - Being in Montana, as you know, is being in an outdoor paradise.

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But being an outdoor paradise comes with its consequences. Between grizzly bears, mountain lions, and certain insects, it sometimes feels like the outdoors are trying to kill you—and that's before the insanely hard and dangerous hikes you're on when you encounter them.

However, what about the animals in Montana that are quite literally poisonous, venomous, or somewhere in between? How many are in Montana, and what do they look like? How can you stay safe from them? Did you know Montana has a poisonous amphibian?

Here’s what you need to know about Montana’s most dangerous species and how to stay safe around them.

Prairie Rattlesnakes

Montana’s only venomous snake, the prairie rattlesnake, makes its home below 6,400 feet of elevation, particularly in dry, open landscapes. These snakes are generally shy, preferring to avoid humans, but they’ll bite if threatened or cornered. Prairie rattlesnakes can cause serious injuries with their venomous bites, leading to severe pain, swelling, and even long-term complications if not treated. While fatalities are rare—thanks to modern antivenoms—it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately after a bite.

If you're exploring areas known for rattlesnakes, such as rocky outcrops or open grasslands, be sure to wear boots and long pants. Stick to designated trails, avoid placing your hands or feet under logs or rocks, and stay aware of your surroundings. If you hear a rattle, back away calmly and give the snake space. Never attempt to handle or provoke one, as they can strike faster than you’d expect.

Black Widow Spiders

Another venomous resident in Montana is the black widow spider, easily identified by the red hourglass marking on its abdomen. These spiders prefer dark, secluded areas like woodpiles, basements, and attics. Black widows are not aggressive but will bite when threatened, with venom that can cause muscle pain, cramps, and even nausea. However, fatalities from black widow bites are exceedingly rare, especially in healthy adults.

If you're cleaning out dark areas or reaching into places like shoes or gloves that have been unused for a while, take a moment to shake them out or inspect them first. Bites are preventable if you simply leave the spiders alone. In case of a bite, wash the area, apply ice, and seek medical attention—especially for children or the elderly, who are more susceptible to complications.

Western Toad

While Montana doesn’t have many poisonous land creatures, a few amphibians like the western toad secrete toxins through their skin. Although not harmful to humans unless ingested, these toxins can deter predators and cause irritation if handled improperly. The northern pike and some other fish species found in Montana waters are also toxic if consumed in large quantities due to their mercury content, though they aren’t poisonous in the traditional sense.

If you manage to pick up a western toad in your travels, make sure to wash your hands as soon as possible to avoid you or anyone else from ingesting its harmful toxins.

Stay Safe in Montana’s Wilds

Montana’s venomous and poisonous species are few in number, and with basic awareness and precaution, your odds of encountering a dangerous situation are slim. Always remember to respect wildlife from a safe distance, use appropriate outdoor gear, and know what to do if you encounter a prairie rattlesnake, black widow spider, or western toad.