South Carolina is home to several species of venomous snakes. Awareness is important for residents and visitors. While encounters are not common, understanding their presence and characteristics contributes to safety in the state’s diverse natural environments. Knowing how to identify these snakes and what to do if encountered is valuable.
Identifying South Carolina’s Venomous Snakes
Six venomous snake species inhabit South Carolina, each with distinct features. The Eastern Copperhead, the most commonly encountered venomous snake, measures 2 to 3 feet (up to 4 feet). Its coloration ranges from pink to coppery-tan with dark brown, hourglass-shaped cross-bands, and a uniformly copper-colored head.
The Cottonmouth (Water Moccasin) is a large wetland snake, measuring 3 to 4 feet, capable of exceeding 5 feet. Coloration varies from dark brown to olive or yellow-tan, often with irregular dark cross-bands; juveniles may resemble copperheads. When threatened, cottonmouths display their white mouth interior.
South Carolina hosts three rattlesnake species. The Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake, North America’s largest venomous snake, ranges from 3 to 5 feet (sometimes exceeding 6 feet). It is recognized by dark-brown to black diamonds bordered by cream-colored scales down its back, and a tail rattle.
The Timber Rattlesnake (Canebrake Rattlesnake) measures 3 to 5 feet, reaching up to 6 feet. Two forms exist in South Carolina: a mountain form (yellow to black backgrounds, dark cross-bands) and a coastal form (light tan, pink, or orange background, dark cross-bands). The Pigmy Rattlesnake is much smaller, averaging 14-22 inches. Its background color varies from dark gray to light gray or pink, featuring dark blotches and sometimes a faint red stripe along the spine.
The Eastern Coral Snake has bright red, yellow, and black bands. Unlike non-venomous look-alikes, its red bands touch yellow bands, and it has a black snout. Adults usually reach 2 feet.
Common Habitats and Locations
Venomous snakes inhabit diverse South Carolina environments. Eastern Copperheads are widely distributed in mountain coves, hardwood forests (Piedmont and Coastal Plain), longleaf pine forests, and swamp forests. They are often found near human activity, including suburban areas and gardens, especially where rodents are present.
Cottonmouths are closely associated with aquatic environments: riverine swamps, floodplains, lake edges, and Carolina bays. They thrive in wetlands and marshes, generally absent from the Piedmont and mountain regions. Rattlesnakes, including Eastern Diamondbacks, often prefer coastal plains and sandy pine forests.
Timber Rattlesnakes are found throughout South Carolina in various terrains, including lowland thickets, river areas, agricultural fields, and deciduous and coniferous forests. Pigmy Rattlesnakes, found statewide except in mountainous areas, are typically near fresh water sources like marshes, swamps, and ponds, but also in upland pine forests. Eastern Coral Snakes generally prefer to remain hidden, residing underground or within leaf litter in wooded and sandy areas.
Encountering Venomous Snakes Safely
Caution is important where venomous snakes may reside. Stay on marked trails and wear appropriate footwear (closed-toe shoes or boots) to reduce accidental encounters. Avoid placing hands or feet into dense leaf litter, rock crevices, or other hidden spots where a snake might be resting.
If a snake is encountered, give it ample space. Snakes typically move away if given space, not seeking confrontation. Harassing, handling, or attempting to kill a snake can provoke a defensive strike, increasing bite risk. If a venomous snake is observed on private property, contact local animal control or a professional wildlife removal service. Keeping yards clear of debris like leaves, rocks, and firewood deters snakes by removing hiding spots and reducing prey.
Responding to a Snakebite
In a snakebite event, immediate action is important. First, call 911 or emergency services for prompt medical attention. While waiting, remain still to slow venom spread. Remove any tight clothing, jewelry, or constricting items near the bite site to prevent swelling complications.
Keep the bitten limb still and at a neutral level; this manages swelling and prevents rapid venom travel. Clean the wound with soap and water, if available, to minimize infection risk. Avoid certain actions that worsen the situation: Do not apply a tourniquet, cut the wound, suck out venom, or apply ice, as these methods are ineffective and can cause harm. Do not attempt to capture or kill the snake for identification; this risks another bite. Professional medical identification and treatment, including antivenom, are important for recovery.