Snakes of NC Identification

Introduction to NC's Reptile Population

North Carolina is home to a diverse array of reptilian species, including several species of snakes. From the venomous copperhead to the non-venomous garter snake, the Tarheel State is home to a variety of snakes. It is important for North Carolinians to be able to identify the snakes that may inhabit their yards or homes in order to stay safe. In this article, we will discuss the most common species of snakes found in North Carolina and how to identify them.

Venomous Snakes of North Carolina

The most common venomous snakes found in North Carolina are copperheads, cottonmouths, and rattlesnakes. Copperheads are the most common venomous snakes in the state, and they are found across the state in a variety of habitats. They are usually between 18 and 36 inches long, and they have a copper-colored head and a tan body with darker crossbands. Cottonmouths are found in the coastal areas of the state, and they are usually darker in color with a black head and a tan body. They can grow up to 48 inches long. Finally, rattlesnakes are found across the state, and they are usually between 24 and 36 inches long. They have a diamond pattern on their back and a rattle on the end of their tail.

Non-Venomous Snakes of North Carolina

The most common non-venomous snakes found in North Carolina are garter snakes, black rat snakes, and corn snakes. Garter snakes are the most common snakes in the state, and they are usually between 18 and 24 inches long. They have a striped pattern on their back and can be brown, black, or green in color. Black rat snakes are usually between 36 and 72 inches long, and they are black in color. They are found in forests, fields, and wetland areas. Finally, corn snakes are usually between 24 and 36 inches long, and they have a red, orange, and black pattern on their back. They are usually found in forests and fields.

How to Identify Snakes

Identifying snakes can be difficult, as some species look very similar to one another. However, there are a few tips that can help you make an accurate identification. The first tip is to look at the pattern of the snake's scales. Venomous snakes usually have a diamond or hourglass pattern on their back, while non-venomous snakes usually have stripes or blotches. The second tip is to look for a rattle on the end of the snake's tail. Only rattlesnakes have rattles, so if the snake you are looking at has a rattle, then it is a rattlesnake. Finally, if you can get close enough to the snake, you can check its eyes. Venomous snakes have elliptical or cat-like eyes, while non-venomous snakes have round eyes.

Safety Tips for Dealing With Snakes

If you encounter a snake, it is important to stay calm and not panic. The best thing to do is to slowly and carefully back away from the snake and leave it alone. It is also important to keep your pets and children away from the snake. If you think the snake may be venomous, it is best to call a professional snake removal service to come and safely remove the snake from your property.

Conclusion

It is important for North Carolinians to be able to identify the snakes that may inhabit their yards or homes in order to stay safe. Venomous snakes such as copperheads, cottonmouths, and rattlesnakes can be dangerous, so it is important to be able to identify them. Non-venomous snakes such as garter snakes, black rat snakes, and corn snakes are usually harmless, but it is still important to be able to identify them. By following the tips in this article, you will be able to accurately identify the snakes of North Carolina and keep yourself and your family safe.