Quick Answer
North Carolina has 37 species of snakes, of which 6 are venomous: Copperhead (statewide, most common venomous bite), Cottonmouth (coastal plain), Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake (sandhills/coastal), Timber Rattlesnake (mountains/piedmont), Pygmy Rattlesnake (coastal plain), and Eastern Coral Snake (southeastern NC, rare). The Copperhead is responsible for the most bites in NC. The venomous species vary by region: mountains have timber rattlesnakes, piedmont has copperheads, coastal plain has all six.
North Carolina Snake Identification Guide
North Carolina's diverse geography — from mountains to piedmont to coastal plain — supports a wide variety of snake species. The venomous species you may encounter depend on which region of the state you are in.
Venomous Snakes by Region
| Region | Venomous Species | Most Common Venomous |
|---|---|---|
| Mountains (western NC) | Timber Rattlesnake, Copperhead | Copperhead |
| Piedmont (central NC) | Copperhead, Timber Rattlesnake (rare) | Copperhead |
| Coastal Plain (eastern NC) | Copperhead, Cottonmouth, Eastern Diamondback, Pygmy Rattlesnake, Coral Snake | Copperhead, Cottonmouth |
| Sandhills | Eastern Diamondback, Copperhead, Pygmy Rattlesnake | Eastern Diamondback |
Copperhead: The Most Common Venomous Snake in NC
The copperhead is found in all 100 North Carolina counties and is responsible for approximately 90% of venomous snake bites in the state. It prefers wooded areas, overgrown fields, and gardens. Its hourglass-shaped bands are the key identifier. It is not aggressive and will typically freeze or flee when approached.
Common Non-Venomous Snakes
| Species | Size | Region | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eastern Rat Snake | 3-6 ft | Statewide | Black, excellent climber, common in attics |
| Black Racer | 3-5 ft | Statewide | Fast, solid black, white chin |
| Corn Snake | 2-5 ft | Coastal plain, piedmont | Orange/brown with blotches, common near barns |
| Eastern Hognose | 1.5-3 ft | Coastal plain, sandhills | Dramatic defensive display, harmless |
| Northern Water Snake | 2-4 ft | Statewide near water | Often mistaken for cottonmouth |
Snake Safety in NC
- Copperheads are the most common venomous snake — learn to identify them
- Cottonmouths are found only in the coastal plain
- Eastern Diamondbacks are in the sandhills and coastal plain
- Timber rattlesnakes are in the mountains and piedmont
- If bitten, stay calm and get to a hospital immediately
FAQ: North Carolina Snakes
Are there water moccasins in the mountains of NC?
No. Cottonmouths (water moccasins) are found only in the coastal plain and eastern piedmont. They are not present in the mountains.
What is the most common snake in North Carolina?
The Eastern Rat Snake is one of the most commonly encountered snakes in NC. It is a large, black snake that is an excellent climber and is often found in barns and attics.
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Sources: US Fish and Wildlife Service, USDA Wildlife Services, state wildlife agencies, CDC, academic extension services. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional wildlife management advice.