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Common Snakes of North Carolina

North Carolina is one place with a chockfull variety of snake. There are 37 species in this state and only six of those are venomous. Some of the common species include:


Copperhead
This venomous snake is found throughout the state. It is a small snake averaging less than 36 inches in length for an adult. It also has a pinkish-tan or pale tan background colour which deepens toward the mid-section area of the body with a series of dark cross bands. As a pit viper with pits between the nostrils and the eyes.

Rat Snake
As the name suggests, they feed on rats, mice, small reptiles and birds. They are variant in nature and among those in these club include:

  • Black ratsnake
  • Yellow ratsnake
  • Grey ratsnake
  • Iridescent ratsnake
They bear a slight resemblance to the venomous copperheads which make them very vulnerable. They vary significantly in colour in different regions of the state. The most common colours with the adults, however, are black and with spotted grey and a white belly. They can also be greenish-yellow with four black or brown stripes on the length of their bodies.

Cottonmouth / Water Moccasin
This is a snake accustomed to water. It is often located near water and eats fish and frogs found is semi-aquatic habitats. They vastly inhabit the eastern half of North Carolina wetlands. Cottonmouth is a name that alludes to its habit of opening its mouth and hissing whenever threatened. It is whitish-pink inside the mouth, a stark contrast to its body coloration. It is also a pit viper hence extremely venomous.

The eastern worm snake
This snake is commonly distributes towards the south east and the north east of the state. It is one of those non-venomous snakes to man. An adult has an average total body length of 35cm. its reproduction is by laying eggs and can reproduce 5 offspring per time. The worm snake gets its name from its similar appearance to the worm, it has a sharp pointed head which is barely wider than its neck.

Timber Rattlesnake
This one is also widespread throughout the state and is grave venomous. It’s also known as canebrake rattlesnake. The adults can reach five feet or more. It has a colour pattern that helps it camouflage with soil, leave debris and rocks, its perfect habitat. It has large fangs which yield a lot of venom. Fortunately, the snake only strikes when cornered.

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