North Carolina is home to many snakes,
including several venomous types. Particularly when temperatures are
high, it’s important to watch out for these 4 venomous snakes.
1. Copperheads
Copperheads live almost everywhere in
North Carolina and are responsible for many of the snakebites in the
United States, although copperhead bites are relatively low risk.
Copperheads are medium-sized and are named after the coppery hue of the
head and have bodies decorated with distinct brown hour-glass bands.
2. Cottonmouths
Cottonmouths, also known as water
moccasins, are the only venomous water snakes in the United States.
These snakes lurk near the water’s surface. They have triangular heads
and thick bodies; the insides of their mouths are notably white.
Although the bites are dangerous, cottonmouths generally only attack if
threatened.
3. Rattlesnakes
North Carolina is home to shrinking
populations of both the Eastern Diamondback and the Timber rattlesnake,
which prefer undisturbed ground. Though these two snakes have different
markings, they are clearly distinguishable by their rattles, with which
they make a warning buzz if disturbed.
4. Coral Snakes
The Eastern coral snake is highly
venomous and very noticeable with its bright bands of red, black and
yellow. When threatened, it may hide its heads in its coils or make a
popping sound before striking.
If you spot any of these snakes cruising through your yard, click here to learn more about snake removal in Cary.