North Carolina is home to a diverse array of snake species, important to the state’s varied ecosystems. While many of these snakes are harmless and play beneficial roles in the environment, a few are venomous. Understanding the types of snakes present and how to interact safely with them can enhance both personal safety and appreciation.
Common Snake Species
North Carolina hosts 37 snake species, with the vast majority being non-venomous. These non-venomous snakes are important to the ecosystem, helping to control populations of rodents and insects. Examples include the garter snake, known for its striped pattern, and the black rat snake, a large climber found near human dwellings where it preys on rodents. King snakes, with their distinctive patterns, are common and even known to consume other snakes, including venomous ones.
Six venomous snake species reside in North Carolina, divided into two groups: pit vipers and the Eastern coral snake. Pit vipers, including copperheads, cottonmouths, and three rattlesnake species: Eastern diamondback, timber, and pygmy, are responsible for most venomous snake bites in the state. The Eastern coral snake, though venomous, is rarely encountered due to its secretive nature and limited distribution.
Identifying Venomous Snakes
Identifying venomous snakes in North Carolina involves recognizing physical characteristics and behaviors. Pit vipers, such as copperheads, cottonmouths, and rattlesnakes, share several common traits. They possess a triangular-shaped head, noticeably wider than their neck, and have elliptical pupils resembling a cat’s eye. A distinguishing feature is a heat-sensing pit located between their eye and nostril, which aids in detecting warm-blooded prey.
Copperheads are the most encountered venomous snake in North Carolina, identified by their hourglass-shaped crossbands that resemble “Hershey’s Kisses” on a background of brown, tan, or pinkish hues. Young copperheads have a bright yellow or green tail tip. Cottonmouths, found in aquatic environments, have dark bands and may display a defensive gaping behavior revealing a white mouth lining. Rattlesnakes are characterized by a rattle at the end of their tail, which they shake as a warning. Timber rattlesnakes can vary in color but have dark bands or chevron patterns, while Eastern diamondback rattlesnakes have distinct diamond patterns.
The Eastern coral snake stands apart from pit vipers and is distinctive with its bright, encircling bands of red, yellow, and black. A helpful rhyme to distinguish it from non-venomous mimics like the scarlet kingsnake is “red on yellow, kill a fellow; red on black, friend of Jack,” referring to the order of the color bands. The coral snake also has a black snout, unlike its non-venomous look-alikes with red snouts. This species is slender, has smooth scales, and remains hidden underground.
Safe Encounters and Prevention
Encountering a snake can be startling, but maintaining a calm and respectful distance is best. If a snake is seen, slowly back away and give it space to retreat. Do not attempt to handle, provoke, or kill the snake, as most bites occur when people interact with them. Snakes prefer to avoid human contact and will move away if given the opportunity.
To minimize the chances of snake encounters around homes, several preventive measures help. Keeping grass mowed short and clearing away debris like leaf piles, stacked wood, and rocks removes hiding spots and food sources for snakes and their prey. Sealing cracks in building foundations and around pipes can prevent snakes from entering homes or outbuildings. Removing rodent food sources, like unsecured pet food, deters snakes.
When engaging in outdoor activities in wooded or overgrown areas, wearing appropriate footwear like sturdy, closed-toe shoes or boots offers protection. Watch where you step and place your hands, especially when reaching into unseen areas like dense bushes or under logs. Using a stick to rustle vegetation before stepping through alerts any hidden snakes.
If a snake bite occurs, remain calm and seek immediate medical attention by calling 911 or the NC Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. Gently wash the bite area with soap and water, and remove any jewelry or tight clothing near the site. Avoid traditional but ineffective methods like cutting the wound, applying ice, or using a tourniquet.