While most snakes encountered in North Carolina are harmless, the state hosts six venomous species. Knowing how to identify and react to these snakes can help ensure safety and promote coexistence.
North Carolina’s Highly Venomous Snakes
The Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake (Crotalus adamanteus) possesses highly potent venom. It is the largest rattlesnake species and one of the most dangerous snakes in the United States due to the large quantity of venom it can inject. However, the Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake is rare in North Carolina and is a protected species.
The Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix) is responsible for the vast majority of snakebites in North Carolina, accounting for over 90% of reported incidents. Its venom is less potent than the Eastern Diamondback’s, but bites are painful and rarely life-threatening. Copperheads are the most common and widespread venomous snake in the state, often found in residential areas due to their ability to tolerate human presence. They tend to freeze rather than flee when approached, increasing the likelihood of accidental bites.
Other venomous snakes in North Carolina include the Cottonmouth (Agkistrodon piscivorus), also known as the Water Moccasin, and the Timber Rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus). Cottonmouth venom is potent, but bites are rarely lethal if promptly treated. These semi-aquatic snakes are primarily found in the eastern part of the state, inhabiting freshwater environments. The Timber Rattlesnake possesses very toxic venom but is generally reluctant to bite. This species is more common in the mountains and Coastal Plain regions.
Recognizing Venomous Snakes
Many venomous snakes in North Carolina, specifically pit vipers, share certain characteristics. These include a distinctly triangular head shape, vertical pupils resembling a cat’s eye, and heat-sensing pits between their eyes and nostrils. However, some non-venomous snakes can mimic a triangular head shape when threatened, and pupil shape is difficult to observe from a safe distance.
Copperheads are recognized by their light brown or tan bodies with darker, hourglass-shaped crossbands. Younger copperheads often have a distinctive yellow or greenish tail tip. Cottonmouths typically have a heavy body and may display a white, cotton-like interior of their mouth when threatened, which is how they earned their common name. They also often have a dark stripe extending through the eye and may swim with their entire body on the water’s surface, unlike many non-venomous water snakes.
Rattlesnakes are identified by the presence of a rattle at the end of their tail, which they vibrate as a warning. The Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake features a pattern of dark, diamond-shaped markings outlined in black along its back. Timber Rattlesnakes exhibit dark crossbands or chevron patterns on a lighter background, and their tails are often entirely black. Observing snake behavior from a distance is a safer approach than attempting close identification.
Encountering Snakes and Bite Safety
Encountering a snake requires a calm and cautious approach. Always give snakes ample space and avoid handling or provoking them. Most snakebites occur when people try to interact with or kill snakes. To reduce risk, watch where you step, especially in tall grass or leaf litter, and wear closed-toe footwear outdoors.
If bitten by a suspected venomous snake, call 911 or emergency services immediately. Remove any tight clothing or jewelry from the bitten limb, as swelling will likely occur. Keep the bitten area still and elevated to heart level.
Avoid certain actions after a snakebite, as these can worsen the situation. Do not cut the wound, suck out venom, apply a tourniquet, or use ice. These measures are ineffective and can cause additional harm or tissue damage. Prompt professional medical care is the most effective course of action.