South Carolina is home to a diverse array of snake species, with approximately 38 different types inhabiting its various landscapes, from coastal marshes to mountainous regions. These reptiles play a significant role in the state’s ecosystem, acting as both predators and prey. Understanding their characteristics and behaviors promotes peaceful coexistence.
Venomous Species
South Carolina has six venomous snake species, all important to recognize. The Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake, the largest venomous snake in the state, features dark diamond shapes outlined in yellow along its back and possesses a distinct rattle at its tail. These large-bodied snakes often prefer dry, sandy areas, including coastal dunes and pine forests.
Timber Rattlesnakes, also large, vary in color from tan to pink-orange or yellow to black, displaying dark crossbands and a rattle. They typically inhabit forested areas, including mountains and coastal plains.
The Pigmy Rattlesnake is a smaller species, rarely exceeding a foot in length, with dark blotches and sometimes a faint red stripe on its back. Its rattle produces a soft, buzzing sound, unlike the loud rattle of larger species.
The Cottonmouth, also known as the Water Moccasin, is a heavy-bodied snake found near wetlands and swamps, typically dark brown to black or olive. When threatened, it may display the white interior of its mouth, giving it its common name.
Copperheads are the most frequently encountered venomous snake in South Carolina, identifiable by their coppery-tan color and dark brown hourglass-shaped bands along their body. Juveniles have vibrant yellow tail tips, which they use to lure prey. These snakes inhabit various environments, including forests and suburban yards.
The Eastern Coral Snake is distinct with bright red, yellow, and black bands that completely encircle its body, and it has a black snout. This secretive snake often resides in sandy areas and spends much of its time underground.
Non-Venomous Species
South Carolina’s non-venomous snake population is extensive, with 33 species contributing to ecosystem health, often by controlling rodent and insect populations. The Black Racer is a slender, fast-moving snake that is typically solid black with large eyes. These snakes can reach up to 60 inches in length and are commonly found in various habitats.
Garter Snakes are also widespread, recognized by their stripes running down the body, and are frequently seen in gardens and grassy areas. Corn Snakes, a type of rat snake, are known for their vibrant red-orange coloration with darker reddish blotches. They can grow quite large, over four feet, and are excellent climbers, often found in wooded areas and fields where they prey on rodents.
Rat Snakes, including the Eastern Rat Snake, exhibit significant variation in color and pattern, ranging from all black in some regions to yellow or green with black stripes in coastal areas. They are also adept climbers and feed on rodents and birds. King Snakes, such as the Eastern King Snake, are shiny black with white or yellow chain-link bands and can grow over four feet long. They are known for their ability to consume other snakes, including venomous ones, due to their immunity to venom. These snakes are often found in diverse habitats, including forests, swamps, and suburban areas.
Key Identification Features
Distinguishing venomous from non-venomous snakes involves observing several features, though none are completely reliable. Most venomous snakes in South Carolina, excluding the Eastern Coral Snake, are pit vipers and typically possess a triangular or spade-shaped head, noticeably wider than their neck. However, some non-venomous snakes can flatten their heads to mimic this shape when threatened.
Pit vipers also have vertical, cat-like pupils, while most non-venomous snakes have round pupils. This feature requires close observation, which is not advisable for safety.
Another distinguishing characteristic of pit vipers is the presence of heat-sensing pits located between their eyes and nostrils. These pits allow them to detect warm-blooded prey by sensing infrared radiation.
Rattlesnakes are uniquely identified by their segmented rattle at the tip of their tail, which produces a buzzing sound when vibrated. However, a rattle may be broken off, or the snake may not always rattle before striking.
The Eastern Coral Snake is an exception to many of these rules, having a slender body, a small, rounded head, and round pupils, similar to many non-venomous species. Its distinctive red, yellow, and black banding pattern, where red bands touch yellow bands, helps differentiate it from non-venomous mimics.
Safe Coexistence
Most snakes are not aggressive and prefer to avoid human interaction. If you encounter a snake, give it space and observe from a safe distance. Do not attempt to handle, harass, or kill the snake; bites often occur during interaction. Snakes typically leave if undisturbed.
To reduce snake encounters around your home, keep your yard tidy by clearing woodpiles, brush, and other debris that provide hiding spots. When walking in wooded or overgrown areas, watch your step and avoid placing hands or feet where you cannot see them.
If a snake bite occurs, seek immediate medical attention. Do not use home remedies or try to capture the snake.