South Carolina is home to approximately 38 native snake species inhabiting various landscapes across the state. The vast majority of these reptiles are non-venomous and play an important role in maintaining natural ecosystems, particularly by controlling rodent populations. Only six species are capable of delivering medically significant venom, meaning over 80% of the snakes encountered are harmless. Understanding the distinctions between these groups is the first step toward safe coexistence.
Identifying the Non-Venomous Majority
Non-venomous snakes are the most commonly encountered group. The Eastern Ratsnake, often called a Rat Snake, can grow quite long. It is typically black in the Piedmont and Mountain regions, but may show a striped pattern of yellow or greenish-yellow on the coastal plain. These snakes are adept climbers and are frequently found near human dwellings, hunting mice and other small prey.
The Eastern Kingsnake is another widely distributed species, identifiable by its shiny black scales with a distinct chain-link pattern of white or yellow bands. Kingsnakes are known for their diet, which includes other snakes, even venomous ones. The Corn Snake, a type of Rat Snake, is often recognized by its orange or reddish-brown blotches bordered in black, which can sometimes lead to mistaken identity with the Copperhead.
Eastern Garter Snakes are small, slender snakes that commonly feature three light-colored stripes running down a dark body, though their appearance can vary. They are often found in moist areas near water and are frequently seen in suburban gardens and parks. Non-venomous water snakes, such as the Banded Water Snake, are robust and often mistaken for the Cottonmouth, though they lack the triangular head and facial pits of their dangerous counterpart.
Recognizing South Carolina’s Medically Significant Species
South Carolina is home to six species of venomous snakes. Five belong to the pit viper family: the Copperhead, Cottonmouth, Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake, Timber Rattlesnake, and Pygmy Rattlesnake. Pit vipers are characterized by a heat-sensing pit located between the eye and the nostril, vertically elliptical pupils, and a triangular head shape, although some non-venomous snakes can mimic this shape when threatened. The Copperhead is the most common venomous snake, recognized by its hourglass-shaped crossbands that are coppery-brown against a lighter background.
The Cottonmouth, also known as the Water Moccasin, is the only venomous water snake in North America. It is typically found near water bodies, especially in the Coastal Plain. Its coloration is dark, and when threatened, it displays the bright, white interior of its mouth, which gives it its common name. Rattlesnakes are distinguished by the rattle at the end of their tail, which is used as a defensive warning.
The Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake is the largest venomous snake in North America and possesses a pattern of dark diamonds outlined in a lighter color. The Timber Rattlesnake, or Canebrake Rattlesnake, can be found in two forms: a mountain form (typically yellow or black) and a coastal form (often with a reddish-brown stripe down its back). The Pygmy Rattlesnake is a smaller species with a tiny rattle that is difficult to hear.
The sixth venomous species is the Eastern Coral Snake. It is not a pit viper and lacks the characteristic facial pits and triangular head. It possesses a potent neurotoxin and is identified by bright, alternating bands of red, yellow, and black. A common saying helps distinguish it from non-venomous mimics like the Scarlet Kingsnake: “Red touch yellow, kill a fellow; red touch black, venom lack.”
Habitat and Geographic Distribution
Snake distribution is closely tied to South Carolina’s diverse geography, which includes three main regions: the Mountain region, the Piedmont, and the Coastal Plain. Species diversity is highest in the Coastal Plain, which includes vast areas of wetlands, swamps, and coastal forests. The Cottonmouth is largely restricted to this low-lying, watery region.
The Piedmont, characterized by rolling hills and mixed forests, is home to a wide array of snakes, with the Copperhead being the most prevalent venomous species. In the cooler Mountain region, species like the Timber Rattlesnake are found in specific, isolated, rocky dens where they overwinter. Non-venomous species, such as the Eastern Garter Snake and Eastern Ratsnake, are found across all three regions.
Promoting Safe Coexistence
Preventing snake encounters begins with modifying the surroundings of a home to make them less appealing to snakes and their prey. Clearing yards of debris such as woodpiles, rock stacks, and tall grass eliminates potential hiding spots. Removing sources of rodent attraction, like bird feeders and unsecured pet food, can also reduce the presence of snakes.
When spending time outdoors, especially in areas with heavy vegetation or near water, wear closed-toe shoes and long pants for protection. Never place hands or feet where you cannot see clearly, such as reaching under logs or stepping over large rocks. If a snake is encountered, the safest action is to leave it alone and give it a wide berth, as most bites occur when people try to handle, harass, or kill the animal.
In the rare event of a bite from a suspected venomous snake, remaining calm is the most important step. Seek emergency medical attention immediately. Do not attempt to apply a tourniquet, cut the wound, try to suck out the venom, or apply ice, as these measures are ineffective and can increase tissue damage.