North Carolina’s diverse geography, spanning from the Appalachian Mountains to the coastal plains, provides a rich environment for numerous snake species. The state’s varied landscapes, including pine forests, swamplands, and rocky mountain terrain, support a complex reptilian fauna. Understanding the types of snakes found here is important for anyone living in or exploring the natural areas of the state, promoting safe coexistence and appreciation for their role in the ecosystem.
Categorizing North Carolina Snakes
North Carolina is home to approximately 37 native snake species, divided into venomous and non-venomous groups. The vast majority are non-venomous, with only six species possessing venom considered medically significant to humans. These harmless snakes play a beneficial role in controlling rodent and insect populations. Five of the six venomous species are pit vipers, and their presence is often restricted to specific regions or habitats across the state.
Identifying the Six Venomous Species
Five of North Carolina’s six venomous snakes belong to the pit viper family, distinguished by a heat-sensing pit between the eye and nostril, and typically possessing elliptical pupils. The most frequently encountered venomous snake is the Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix), found statewide in various habitats, including suburban areas. It is identified by its copper-colored head and distinctive hourglass-shaped crossbands against a lighter background.
The Cottonmouth (Agkistrodon piscivorus), also called a Water Moccasin, is the only venomous water snake in North America. It is confined to the Coastal Plain and parts of the eastern Piedmont. Adults are heavy-bodied and often dark, while juveniles display a bright yellow tail tip and a crossband pattern similar to the Copperhead’s. When threatened, the Cottonmouth displays the bright white, cotton-like interior of its mouth, a key identifying behavior.
The state is home to three species of rattlesnakes, all pit vipers recognizable by the segmented rattle at the end of their tail. The largest is the Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake (Crotalus adamanteus), characterized by a pattern of dark brown or black diamonds outlined in yellow. This species is endangered in North Carolina and restricted to the extreme southeastern coastal region, primarily in dry, sandy habitats.
The Timber Rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus) is found in two distinct populations: a darker phase in the mountains and a lighter, canebrake phase in the coastal plain. They are large, heavy-bodied snakes with dark, chevron-shaped crossbands on a lighter base color, culminating in a solid black tail before the rattle. The Pygmy Rattlesnake (Sistrurus miliarius) is a much smaller, slender species, rarely exceeding two feet. Its rattle is so small it is often mistaken for a buzzing insect sound.
The sixth venomous species is the Eastern Coral Snake (Micrurus fulvius), the state’s only member of the Elapidae family. This snake is extremely rare in North Carolina, primarily inhabiting the sandy scrub habitats of the extreme southeastern part of the state. It is distinguished by bright, alternating bands of red, yellow, and black, where the red and yellow bands always touch, differentiating it from non-venomous mimics. Unlike pit vipers, the Coral Snake has a small, rounded head and round pupils, delivering its neurotoxic venom through short, fixed fangs.
Common Non-Venomous Residents
Non-venomous snakes are far more common, representing the majority of the state’s snake population and serving as important predators. The Eastern King Snake (Lampropeltis getula) is known for its diet, which includes other snakes, even venomous ones, due to its natural immunity to pit viper venom. This species is typically black with white or yellow chain-like bands and is found throughout the state.
Rat Snakes (Pantherophis species), such as the Eastern Rat Snake, are excellent climbers often found near human dwellings, including barns and attics. They actively hunt rodents, making them beneficial for pest control. These snakes can exceed five feet, and their coloration varies regionally, from black in the mountains to yellow or gray in coastal areas. When startled, they may vibrate their tail rapidly in leaf litter, creating a rattling sound.
The Corn Snake (Pantherophis guttatus), a type of Rat Snake, is commonly found in forested areas and abandoned buildings. It is noted for its vibrant orange, red, and brown blotches bordered by black. This species is frequently mistaken for a Copperhead due to its coloration, but its blotches lack the distinct hourglass pattern of the venomous snake. Corn Snakes are generally docile and popular in the pet trade.
Eastern Garter Snakes (Thamnophis sirtalis) are widespread and commonly seen, often found in gardens, fields, and near water sources. They are identified by three light-colored stripes running lengthwise down a dark body, and they rarely grow past two feet. These small snakes primarily feed on earthworms, slugs, and amphibians.
Safe Encounters and Identification Tips
When encountering any snake, the safest action is to leave it undisturbed and maintain a respectful distance. Snakes naturally avoid human contact and will only bite if they feel threatened or are intentionally handled. Never attempt to capture, corner, or kill a snake, as most bites occur during active interaction.
Quick visual identification tips can help distinguish between the two groups, but should not be relied upon as the sole method. North Carolina’s pit vipers (Copperhead, Cottonmouth, and Rattlesnakes) generally have a vertically elliptical pupil and a triangular head shape. However, non-venomous species can flatten their heads defensively to mimic this shape. Non-venomous snakes typically have round pupils and a more tapered head shape that is less distinct from the neck.
If a snake bite occurs, remain calm and call 911 immediately to seek professional medical attention. Keep the bitten area immobilized and positioned at or below the level of the heart to slow the spread of venom. Do not attempt to suck out the venom, cut the wound, or apply a tourniquet, as these actions are ineffective and can cause further tissue damage.