South Carolina is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including six species of venomous snakes. Understanding which snakes inhabit the state and where they live is important for residents and visitors to enjoy the outdoors safely. This guide identifies these species, describes their typical locations, and offers practical advice for safely navigating their habitats.
Identifying South Carolina’s Venomous Snakes
South Carolina hosts six species of venomous snakes. Five belong to the pit viper family: the Eastern Copperhead, Northern Cottonmouth (Water Moccasin), Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake, Timber Rattlesnake (Canebrake Rattlesnake), and the Pygmy Rattlesnake. Pit vipers are characterized by a heat-sensing pit located between the eye and nostril, a broad, triangular head, and elliptical pupils. The sixth species, the Eastern Coral Snake, is an elapid, lacking the pit vipers’ characteristic facial pits and head shape.
The Eastern Copperhead is the most common, recognized by its coppery-tan body overlaid with dark brown, hourglass-shaped cross-bands. The Cottonmouth is a heavy-bodied aquatic snake, often dark brown to black, that displays the white, cotton-like interior of its mouth as a defensive warning. Both the Eastern Diamondback and Timber Rattlesnakes are large. The Diamondback features a distinctive pattern of dark diamonds outlined in yellow or white. The Timber Rattlesnake, or Canebrake form, is typically gray or tan with dark chevron-like cross-bands and often has a reddish stripe running down its back.
The Pygmy Rattlesnake is a miniature species, seldom reaching over a foot and a half in length, with a tiny, nearly inaudible rattle. The Eastern Coral Snake is distinguished by bright, alternating bands of red, yellow, and black. It is often confused with harmless snakes, but the mnemonic “red touches yellow, kill a fellow” is a reliable indicator for the venomous species.
Geographic Distribution and Habitats
The distribution of these six species varies significantly across the state’s diverse landscapes. The Eastern Copperhead is the most widely distributed, found throughout South Carolina in habitats including mountain coves, piedmont forests, swamp forests, and suburban woodlots. They thrive in areas with rocky outcrops and forest edges.
The Northern Cottonmouth is strongly associated with water, inhabiting swamps, wetlands, riverine floodplains, and lake edges, particularly in the Coastal Plain and Lowcountry. The Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake is primarily restricted to the dry, sandy areas of the Coastal Plain and Sandhills, preferring longleaf pine forests and scrub habitats. The Timber Rattlesnake has two forms: the mountain form found in the upstate, and the canebrake form found in coastal areas. Both prefer dense woods, mountainous terrain, or wooded bluffs near swamps.
The Pygmy Rattlesnake is found throughout the state, excluding the mountains, often near freshwater sources like marshes and ponds, but also in pine flatwoods. The secretive Eastern Coral Snake is typically found in the sandy soil of the Coastal Zone and Sandhills, spending much of its time burrowed underground or hidden in leaf litter.
Encounter Safety and Prevention
Minimizing the risk of a snake encounter involves thoughtful preparation when spending time outdoors. Wearing protective, high-top boots and long pants offers a physical barrier against incidental bites. Stay on marked trails and avoid walking through tall grass, dense brush, or deep leaf litter where snakes may be resting or hunting.
Never place hands or feet into areas you cannot see, such as under logs, rocks, or into crevices. Exercise caution when collecting firewood or moving debris. If a snake is sighted, remain calm, slowly back away, and give the animal a wide berth. Snakes strike only when they feel threatened and typically retreat if given the opportunity.
If a bite occurs, immediate medical attention is required. Attempt to remain as still as possible to slow the spread of venom. Remove any tight clothing or jewelry near the bite area before swelling begins. Do not attempt to cut the wound, suck out the venom, apply a tourniquet, or use ice, as these actions can cause more harm than good.