The establishment of massive, non-native reptiles, particularly the Burmese python, in the American Southeast is a significant public concern. Pythons are non-venomous constrictors that can reach immense sizes, making them apex predators. Their presence raises questions about the stability of local ecosystems, especially in states bordering regions with established invasive populations. This proximity drives frequent searches for information about whether these large snakes have successfully been introduced into South Carolina’s wilderness.
The Current Status of Pythons in South Carolina
South Carolina currently does not have an established, breeding population of pythons confirmed in the wild. This includes the Burmese python and the African rock python, the two species causing the most concern in the southeastern United States. Isolated sightings of large pythons do occur periodically, often sparking public alarm.
These individual pythons are almost always identified as escaped or intentionally released pets, not wild-born members of an invasive population. For example, a large python was safely captured in Newberry County after being spotted near a school campus, determined to be an albino python released by its owner. These isolated animals typically do not survive the seasonal cold temperatures, which prevents them from successfully colonizing the area and establishing a breeding cycle. The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) monitors reports of nonnative species to manage the threat of potential colonization.
Why South Carolina Is Concerned About Pythons
The primary concern about pythons in South Carolina stems from the massive, established invasive populations in the Florida Everglades. These pythons have devastated native mammal populations in South Florida, raising fears about their potential northward spread. The state’s southern coastal regions share ecological similarities with Florida and are geographically positioned to receive accidental transport.
Accidental transport, such as pythons hitching rides in cargo containers, vehicles, or boats, is a recognized pathway for invasive species. Furthermore, a 2008 study suggested that the native habitat of the Burmese python in Asia aligns climatically with a large portion of the southeastern U.S., including South Carolina. This analysis indicates the state’s climate could potentially support these reptiles, especially as temperatures warm, making it a target for monitoring by wildlife officials.
Identification of Native Large Snakes
Many reports of large pythons are actually misidentifications of native, non-venomous snakes that reach impressive lengths. The Eastern Rat Snake is one of the most common large snakes, frequently growing up to six feet long and sometimes exceeding that length. This species is an excellent climber and is often found near buildings.
Its appearance varies from solid black in the Piedmont to yellow with four black stripes in coastal areas. Another large native snake is the Eastern Coachwhip, which can reach lengths of four to eight feet, making it one of the longest snakes in the state. The Coachwhip is slender and typically has a dark head that fades into a lighter brown or tan body toward the tail, giving it a braided appearance.
The Eastern Indigo Snake, the longest native snake in the United States, is federally protected and is glossy bluish-black throughout its body. Its presence in South Carolina is historically considered rare or extirpated.