North Carolina is home to a diverse array of snake species, which play an integral role in the state’s varied ecosystems. Its diverse landscapes, from coastal plains to mountain ranges, support a wide range of snake habitats. Understanding these different types of snakes and their behaviors fosters coexistence with these often misunderstood creatures.
Understanding North Carolina’s Venomous Snakes
North Carolina hosts six venomous snake species, each with distinct identifying features. The Copperhead is the most commonly encountered venomous snake, recognized by its light brown, coppery, or tan body with dark brown, hourglass-shaped crossbands. These bands are narrow across the back and widen along the sides. Juvenile copperheads often have a bright yellow or greenish tail tip. Copperheads are pit vipers, characterized by heat-sensing pits and vertically elliptical pupils.
Cottonmouths, also known as water moccasins, are heavy-bodied pit vipers primarily found in eastern North Carolina near water sources. Their name comes from the white, cotton-like interior of their mouth, displayed when threatened. Adults are often dark brown to black with crossbands that can be obscured in older individuals. Juveniles have prominent reddish-brown crossbands and a bright yellow or greenish tail tip. Like other pit vipers, they possess heat-sensing pits, vertically elliptical pupils, and a head distinctly wider than their neck.
Three species of rattlesnakes inhabit North Carolina: the Timber Rattlesnake, Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake, and Pygmy Rattlesnake. The Timber Rattlesnake is large and heavy-bodied, with dark crossbands or chevrons on a lighter background and a distinctive black tail. Coloration varies by region, with mountain populations often yellow, dark gray, or black, while those in the Piedmont and Coastal Plain can be light brown, pinkish, or tan.
Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnakes are the largest venomous snakes in North America, identified by dark diamond shapes outlined in black on a gray or yellowish body. They possess a large rattle on their tail and two light lines along the sides of their heads. The Pygmy Rattlesnake is the smallest rattlesnake in the state, typically found in southeastern pine flatwoods and scrub oak habitats.
The Eastern Coral Snake is North Carolina’s only member of the cobra family, possessing potent neurotoxic venom. This slender snake has smooth, shiny scales with alternating bands of red, yellow, and black that completely encircle its body. A common way to distinguish it from non-venomous mimics is the pattern “red on yellow can kill a fellow; red on black is venom lack,” though this rhyme is not foolproof. They have a black snout followed by a broad yellow band, and small, fixed fangs.
Common Non-Venomous Snakes in North Carolina
North Carolina is home to many non-venomous snake species, often mistaken for their venomous counterparts. Black Racers are sleek, slender snakes that are typically solid black as adults, though juveniles have dark spots on a lighter background. They are fast-moving and can grow quite long. Unlike rat snakes, which can also be black, racers have smooth scales.
Eastern Garter Snakes are common and highly variable in appearance, usually featuring three light stripes down their back on a darker background. These stripes can be yellow, brown, or green, and the area between them may have blotches. Garter snakes are relatively small and are frequently found in gardens and grassy areas.
Corn Snakes are colorful constrictors, characterized by squarish blotches of red or reddish-brown on an orange, brown, or gray background. They have a distinct black-and-white checkerboard pattern on their belly, which often resembles Indian corn, giving them their name. Corn snakes are sometimes confused with copperheads, but their distinct belly pattern and round pupils help differentiate them.
King Snakes are known for their ability to prey on other snakes, including venomous ones. The Scarlet Kingsnake, a common mimic of the Eastern Coral Snake, has red, black, and yellow bands, but the red and black bands touch, and its snout is red. Common Kingsnakes are typically black with white or yellow bands or speckles. They are powerful constrictors that consume rodents, birds, and other reptiles.
Rat Snakes are among the most common large non-venomous snakes in North Carolina and are excellent climbers. Their coloration varies geographically; in the mountains and Piedmont, adults are often glossy black, while in the Coastal Plain, they can be yellowish-green with dark stripes. Young rat snakes have distinct dark blotches that fade as they mature. These snakes have weakly keeled scales, which aids in climbing.
Where Snakes Reside in North Carolina
Snakes in North Carolina inhabit a wide range of environments, adapting to the state’s diverse geography. They can be found in various natural and human-modified landscapes, from mountainous regions to coastal plains. Forests, particularly deciduous and mixed woodlands, provide ample cover and food sources for many species, including Timber Rattlesnakes and Copperheads. These areas offer dense vegetation, leaf litter, and fallen logs for shelter and hunting.
Swamps, marshes, and areas near ponds and streams are common habitats for aquatic species like Cottonmouths. These wet environments provide abundant prey such as fish, amphibians, and small mammals. Cottonmouths are frequently observed basking on logs or branches at the water’s edge.
Snakes also commonly reside in agricultural and suburban environments, drawn by available food and shelter. Rodents, a primary food source, often thrive near human dwellings, agricultural fields, and barns. Structures like sheds, woodpiles, rock piles, and overgrown gardens offer ideal hiding spots and protection from predators and extreme temperatures. Snakes seek these areas for refuge and to regulate their body temperature.
Safe Encounters with North Carolina Snakes
Encountering a snake can be startling, but maintaining a safe distance is important. Avoid attempting to handle, harass, or kill any snake, as most bites occur during interaction. If a snake is encountered, remaining calm and slowly backing away provides the best outcome for both the person and the snake. If a snake is in an undesirable location, such as a garage or home, professional snake removal services can safely relocate the animal.
Should a snakebite occur, especially from a venomous species, immediate medical attention is necessary. Stay calm, gently wash the bite area with soap and water, and remove any jewelry or tight clothing near the affected limb. Keep the bitten area still and, if possible, raised to heart level.
Contact NC Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance, and call 911 immediately if symptoms like chest tightness or shortness of breath occur. Do not attempt home remedies such as cutting the wound, applying ice or a tourniquet, or trying to suck out the venom, as these actions can cause further harm. If safe to do so from a distance, taking a picture of the snake can assist medical professionals in identifying the species and determining appropriate treatment.
To minimize snake encounters around homes and properties, several proactive measures can be taken. Keep yards clean and free of debris, such as woodpiles, rock piles, and tall grass, to reduce potential hiding spots for snakes and their prey. Seal entry points into homes, including cracks in foundations, gaps around windows and doors, and unscreened vents, to prevent snakes from entering. Removing food sources like pet food and bird feeders that attract rodents can also deter snakes.