North Carolina is home to six species of venomous snakes, making it one of the states with a higher number of potentially dangerous reptiles. While the vast majority of the state’s nearly 40 snake species are harmless, understanding the venomous few is important for outdoor safety. Knowing how to identify these snakes and understanding safety protocols can significantly reduce the risk of an encounter and ensure a proper response should a bite occur. North Carolina leads the nation in the number of reported snakebites annually.
The Six Venomous Species of North Carolina
Pit Vipers
Five of North Carolina’s six venomous snakes belong to the pit viper family (Viperidae). They share three defining features: a triangular head, elliptical pupils, and a heat-sensing pit between the eye and nostril. The Copperhead is the most common, responsible for about 90% of the state’s venomous bites, and is identifiable by its hourglass-shaped crossbands. The Cottonmouth (water moccasin) is a semi-aquatic pit viper that displays a white, cotton-like interior of its mouth when threatened. The state has three rattlesnake species—the Timber, Eastern Diamondback, and Pygmy Rattlesnake—all featuring a tail rattle. Pit viper venom is hemotoxic, damaging tissues and blood cells.
Eastern Coral Snake
The Eastern Coral Snake is the single venomous species not classified as a pit viper, belonging to the Elapid family (related to cobras). It lacks the triangular head and heat-sensing pits, possessing a slender body, small head, and round pupils. Its body has bright bands of red, yellow, and black, with the red bands touching the yellow bands. This pattern distinguishes it from the non-venomous Scarlet Kingsnake, summarized by the rhyme “red on yellow, kill a fellow; red on black, friend of Jack.” The coral snake’s venom is neurotoxic, affecting the nervous system.
Geographic Range Across the State
The distribution of these six species is determined by the state’s three major geographical regions: the Mountains, the Piedmont, and the Coastal Plain. The Copperhead has the most extensive range, found in a wide variety of habitats across the entire state, except for the Outer Banks. This broad distribution is why it is the most frequently encountered venomous snake. The Cottonmouth is primarily restricted to the Coastal Plain and the lower Piedmont, favoring swamps, marshes, and bodies of water.
The three rattlesnake species and the Eastern Coral Snake have more limited ranges. The Timber Rattlesnake is now most commonly found in forested areas of the Mountains and the Coastal Plain. The Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake and the Pygmy Rattlesnake are confined almost exclusively to the southeastern Coastal Plain and the Sandhills region. The Eastern Coral Snake is also restricted to the lower Coastal Plain and Sandhills, making it highly unlikely for most residents to encounter.
Safety Measures and Prevention
The most effective way to avoid a snake encounter is by reducing attractive habitats and maintaining awareness. Homeowners should eliminate hiding spots near the residence by removing piles of leaves, brush, firewood, and other debris, as snakes seek shelter and prey. Managing spilled seed from bird feeders is also useful, as rodents attracted to the seed serve as a food source for snakes.
For those spending time outdoors, wearing sturdy, closed-toe shoes or boots protects against accidental bites. Hikers and gardeners should look before placing hands or feet in areas they cannot see, such as under logs, rocks, or dense vegetation. Since many venomous snakes are nocturnal during warmer months, use a flashlight when walking outside at night. If a snake is encountered, slowly back away and give the animal plenty of room, as they only strike if they feel threatened or provoked.
Immediate Action Following a Bite
A bite from any venomous snake requires immediate medical attention, even from the common Copperhead, as symptoms are not always apparent right away. The first step is to remain calm, which helps slow the spread of venom through the circulatory system. The affected individual should call 911 or the Carolinas Poison Center immediately to receive guidance while en route to a medical facility.
While waiting for assistance, gently wash the bitten area with soap and water and immobilize it. Keep the affected limb at the level of the heart, avoiding dangling it low or elevating it high. Rings, watches, and tight clothing near the bite must be removed quickly, as swelling can progress rapidly and cause constriction. Several common but outdated first aid measures must be avoided, including applying a tourniquet, cutting the wound, attempting to suck out the venom, or applying ice. These actions worsen the injury.