North Carolina’s diverse geography, spanning from the Appalachian Mountains to the Atlantic coastal plain, creates a variety of habitats that support over 30 species of snakes. These environments, including forests, swamps, and suburban areas, serve as homes for many different types of reptiles. Understanding the identity and behavior of these snakes is the most effective way to ensure safety and foster appreciation for their role in the ecosystem.
The Six Venomous Species
North Carolina is home to six species of venomous snakes, five of which are classified as pit vipers, characterized by heat-sensing facial pits. The Copperhead is the most widely distributed, found across the entire state except for the Outer Banks, and is responsible for the majority of venomous snake bites due to its tolerance for proximity to human dwellings. This species is medium-sized, typically reaching about three feet, and is recognized by its hourglass-shaped crossbands that resemble a Hershey’s Kiss pattern.
The other four pit vipers—the Cottonmouth, Timber Rattlesnake, Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake, and Pigmy Rattlesnake—have more restricted distributions. The Cottonmouth, or water moccasin, is largely confined to the coastal plain and lower Piedmont regions, preferring aquatic environments like swamps and wetlands. Timber Rattlesnakes are found in two distinct populations, one in the mountainous west and the other, sometimes called the Canebrake Rattlesnake, in the coastal plain.
The Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake, the largest rattlesnake in the world, is now extremely rare in the state, historically inhabiting the sandy pine flatwoods of the southeastern coastal plain. It is currently listed as endangered in North Carolina. The Pigmy Rattlesnake is a smaller species, typically only one to two feet long, found primarily in the lower coastal plain and Sandhills region.
The Eastern Coral Snake is the sixth venomous species and the only one that is not a pit viper. This slender snake is rare, found only in the southern coastal plain, and is known for its bright red, yellow, and black banded pattern. Its small mouth and reluctance to bite mean that envenomations are rare, but its neurotoxic venom is potent, and the species is listed as endangered in the state.
Common Non-Venomous Species
Non-venomous species constitute the vast majority of North Carolina’s snake population and are ecologically valuable for controlling rodent and insect populations. The Eastern King Snake is one of the most beneficial, distinguished by its shiny black body and thin yellow or white chain-like bands. This snake is renowned for its diet, which includes other snakes, and has a natural resistance to the venom of pit vipers like Copperheads and Rattlesnakes.
A frequently encountered species is the Eastern Rat Snake, a large, heavy-bodied climber that can reach up to six feet in length. Adult Rat Snakes are often black in the mountains but can be yellowish or olive in the coastal plains, and they are commonly found near homes, barns, and wooded areas. Corn Snakes, which are a type of Rat Snake, are medium-sized and recognized by their orange or reddish blotches outlined in black, making them one of the most colorful snakes in the state.
Water snakes, such as the Northern Water Snake, are common and often confused with the Cottonmouth due to their preference for water sources. These snakes are generally tan or light brown with dark markings, and while they may flatten their heads when threatened, they lack the facial pits and elliptical pupils of pit vipers. Common Garter Snakes are prevalent, typically identifiable by three distinct light stripes running down a dark body, and are frequently seen in yards and gardens across the state.
Key Identification Features
While coloration and pattern are helpful, physical structure provides the most reliable way to distinguish the five pit vipers from non-venomous snakes. Pit vipers possess a characteristic triangular or spade-shaped head that is distinctly wider than the neck, though some harmless species can mimic this by flattening their heads when defensive. A consistent feature of the pit viper is the presence of a deep, heat-sensing loreal pit located between the eye and the nostril on each side of the face.
The pupil shape is another differentiating factor, as pit vipers have vertical, elliptical pupils, while non-venomous snakes generally have round pupils. The exception is the Eastern Coral Snake, which is venomous but has round pupils. Pit vipers have a single row of scales on the underside of their tail (subcaudal scales), while non-venomous snakes typically have a divided, double row. These features require a close look and should only be used to identify snakes from a safe distance or by examining a shed skin.
Coexistence and Conservation
The most effective strategy for interacting with snakes is to leave them undisturbed, as they will almost always retreat if given a clear path. If a snake is encountered in a yard, the safest approach is to spray it gently with a garden hose from a distance to encourage it to move along without causing harm. Never attempt to handle, capture, or kill a snake, as this is when the majority of defensive bites occur.
To make a property less inviting to snakes, homeowners can focus on eliminating potential shelter and food sources. This involves trimming grass short, clearing away piles of debris, wood, and rocks, and sealing any cracks or openings in the foundation of the home. Removing attractants for rodents, such as unsecured pet food or bird feeders, will reduce a snake’s incentive to stay in the area. Several species in North Carolina are legally protected, making it illegal to harass or kill them.