Common name:rough green snake, grass snake, green grass snake. It can grow up to 84 inches and is black to blue in color, which includes the belly. They are tan to light brown in color and are patterned with a series of dark diamonds outlined in lighter scales going down the back of the snake. They can often be found around drying pools in the wetlands, where they feed on the trapped amphibians and fish. How to identify snakes in SC, NC 3. Description: The red-bellied watersnake is easily identified by its unmarked, orange or reddish belly and unmarked, reddish brown to dark brown back. SC Distribution: Coastal Zone, Coastal Plains, Sandhills, Piedmont, Blue Ridge. Overall, we could just say that snakes can look super cute if you gaze at them from a considerable distance. The sides have alternating smaller blotches. Though their bite is said to be highly toxic, there hasnt been a death attributed to this snake since the 1960s. However, its range does extend to the western piedmont area. Corn snakes are large 48 inches snakes that are slender in build. Five of South Carolinas six venomous snakes are pit vipers. water moccasin Scarlet kingsnakes are smaller than the milk snake, growing to 20 inches in length with beautiful coloration. This snake can be quite large with lengths up to 66 inches (168cm). Brown water snakes are large heavy-bodied semi-aquatic snakes that grow up to 60 inches. There are two subspecies found in South Carolina, one prefers mountainous areas and has a complete ring around the neck with no pattern on the underside, where the other prefers the Coastal Plain and has a broken neck ring and black spots on the underside. With hundreds of articles on everything pertaining to lizards, turtles, and snakes, our experienced team provides reliable and accurate content you can trust. They spend the majority of their time underground, sometimes hiding under logs and rocks. Common name:Eastern diamondback rattlesnake. This highly venomous snake is certainly one of the most vibrant and colorful snakes in the Southeastern United States. Whipsnakes (Masticophis flagellum) rank as the most common species, with subspecies living in states from Florida, west to California. They kill their prey by constriction. The tail is yellowish and ends in a small rattle. Adults average in size from 24-55 inches (61-140cm) and juveniles are more vibrantly patterned than adults. Adults can grow to around 72 inches, though one individual has been recorded at 96 inches (244cm). Banded water snakes are mid-sized snakes with heavy bodies, they are semi-aquatic and can grow up to 42 inches in length. They are observed in the Coastal Plain and have progressed to the mountainous areas and the coast. A fairly large bodied snake achieving an average adult length between 30 48 inches (76 122 cm). If captured, they will bite, though some may hide their heads or go limp if captured. Length: up to 13 in (33.5 cm) They grow to 13 inches and have tiny dots on either side of the belly. Many snakes provide an important service keeping rodent and other pest populations under control. Their color can range from light gray to white or yellow with dark square patches on the back and side that lighten as they near the tail and darken as they near the head. The belly is dark with like the dorsum with pale blotches. This guide is only for South Carolina snake identification. The belly is pale yellowish with four brown stripes extending down the length of the body. The belly is unmarked. While they cant kill you, be careful, they have very sharp teeth and will bite in their own defense. Juveniles closely resemble adults in appearance. If captured, they will hiss and strike, but they seldom bite. Corn snakes (Pantherophis guttatus) are the smaller relatives of ratsnakes and they are also common in South Carolina, especially in the longleaf pine forests. They spend most of their time underground and are seldom observed. These snakes live in a variety of habitats from marshes and hillsides to meadows and woodlands where they prefer moist areas. iNaturalist offers a centralized location for wildlife enthusiasts to share observation data regarding plants and animals around the globe including South Carolinas reptiles. This snake is almost entirely black. Common name:striped crayfish snake, Allens snake, striped swamp snake, striped swampsnake, swamp snake. The front of the head is black with a yellow band crossing just behind the eye. Brown water snakes are some of the largest snakes in South Carolina, growing to between 30 and 60 inches as they mature into adulthood. They are often mistaken as the venomous cottonmouth, except that the cottonmouth has bands not patches. They simply snatch their prey and swallow it quickly instead. Nerodia erythrogaster. The coral snake is another venomous species in South Carolina. They have large eyes, short heads, and heavy bodies that are a shiny olive to brown with two light stripes that run down the length of the body. They have a yellow belly with four brown stripes, two down the center of the belly and one on either side. They are not dangerous to humans but may hiss and vibrate their tails if you corner them. They reach three to 6 feet long and can weigh up to 10 pounds. are often unfortunate victims of mistaken identitythought to be Water Moccasins. Snakes are shy (and, many times, harmless) creatures that are more afraid of us than we are of them. SC Distribution: Coastal Zone, Coastal Plains, Sandhills, Piedmont. This small snake is dark gray to black above and yellow to orange on the belly. If youre new to South Carolina, you need to learn them well. Yellow rat snake photo taken by Jessica Miller Copperheads are common throughout the state. Common name:banded water snake, black water adder, black water snake, brown water snake, common water snake, common northern water snake, eastern water snake, North American water snake, northern banded water snake, northern water snake, spotted water snake, streaked snake, water pilot. hroughout its range this snake has been observed in a variety of color tones. This means people kill them when they see them when theres no need to. They can usually be found in the wetlands and like to have plenty of vegetation to hide in. They live off frogs, worms, and the smaller fish in the water source they occupy. They have a checkered belly that is done in black and white. Rarely will this snake exceed 10-15 inches (25 38cm) in length. List of snakes of South Carolina Oh You, Little Noodle. They inhabit areas along coastal South Carolina. Your email address will not be published. They are found throughout the Coastal Plain in South Carolina where they prefer sandhills and sandy pine habitats, though they are sometimes seen in oak forests, abandoned fields, and dry mountainous areas. They are semi-aquatic and are dark brown, gray, or light brown in color with orange to yellow belly. They are nocturnal, and unlike the other water snakes on our list, they will travel for long distances by land to find another body of water. Black swamp snakes are small and high aquatic. The underside of the tail lighter than the belly. Dorsally this snake has three red lines running down a dark stout body. They are tan to light brown in color and are patterned with a series of dark diamonds outlined in lighter scales going down the back of the snake. For identification purposes, the Scarletsnake (Cemophora coccinea) also gets into the conversation because as the picture shows, it looks very similar to a Milksnake or Kingsnake. The Mud Snake is a long, fairly heavy-bodied snake that is mostly glossy black in coloration with a red checkerboard pattern on the belly that extends up to the sides. Snakes play a vital role in South Carolinas ecosystem. This heavy-bodied snake can grow up to 60 inches in length. They prefer forested habitats where there is ample ground cover, where they prefer to live underground, and are often encountered when lifting a log or debris. The Eastern indigo snake is a large black snake that is the longest snake native to the US. From above, the snake looks as if it has a series of red, black and yellow bands extending down the body. They can be encountered throughout South Carolina where they prefer areas close to water. Snake Species Found in South Carolina They fill unique niches and play integral roles as both predators and prey. Like other hognose snakes, this snake has a stout body, keeled scales and an upturned snout. Reptile Guide is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. The picture shows the Eastern Milk Snake. If a suspected venomous snake bites you in South Carolina, contact the Palmetto Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222. Venomous: No, Scientific name: Coluber constrictor The crossbands are wider on the center of the back and narrow as it reaches the sides. Willson When most people in South Carolina think of a water snake, the cottonmouth, also called the water moccasin, is what instantly comes to mind. There is usually a pale triangular patch at the base of the snakes heads head and the snakes belly is pale with black blotches. Southern 5. Common name:timber rattlesnake, canebrake rattlesnake, banded rattlesnake. Venomous: Yes, Scientific name: Sistrurus miliarius Many of the subspecies have different color patterns from red to yellow to brown to dark to tan. The belly scales are pale with two rows of distinct black half moon patterns. Look for rattle segments. They have large eyes with white under the chin and smooth scales. They are found scattered throughout the Coastal Plain with the majority of inland populations identified on the Savannah River Site in South Carolina. This medium to large snake (20-48 in, 76-122 cm) almost always has some hints of reddish or orange in its pattern. All three subspecies are adapted to human living environments, and can often be found in residential areas climbing trees. Common name:brown snake, De Kays snake. The head is solid brown with two dots on the top of the head. They have a uniformly tan or light brown body with a darker brown head and neck. Common name:scarlet kingsnake, scarlet milk snake. Reptile.Guide is not a veterinary website, nor should any of the reptile health information on our site replace the advice of a certified veterinary professional. The ventral surface of this snake usually has a pinkish hue that extends up the sides on 1 2 rows of dorsal scales and can be seen when viewing this snake from above. The dark edging to the smooth tan scales makes the snake resemble a braided whip which gives the snake its name. They can grow up to 32 inches in length and are bright green, which helps you identify them in South Carolina. Only reach out to a wildlife professional or snake relocation expert to have a snake removed from your property if you feel that its posing a direct threat to you, your children, or your pets. Rough green snakes are long and slender snakes that are bright green with white or yellow bellies. Snakes They have square spots on the side of the belly and a dark stripe that runs from the jaw to the eye. Watch out for signs of infection. They have a light spot which can be seen on both sides of the neck and a white to yellow belly. They range in hue from tan to dark brown with darker brown hourglass shaped bands going down the length of the body. A post shared by Dave/Jeremy/Brendan (@traveling_world_of_reptiles). Explore the species list below and click on the description or photo to open a more detailed account. Some predators, including birds of prey, foxes, and raccoons, rely on snakes as a source of food. These snakes will flee if approached and will very rarely stand their ground. They are large and can grow up to 48 inches with large triangular heads and large jowls. Two thinner stripes in the center of the belly, and two bolder stripes towards the outside of the ventral scales. If approached, the snake drops into the water to escape. There is often a dark spot at the center of each ventral scale. These colored bands extend around the whole snake, both dorsum and belly. Young snakes grow rapidly and reach sexual maturation in two to three years. Eastern ribbon snakes are slender snakes that have three yellow stripes, one down the center of the body and two down the sides with a dark background. This large snake (30-60 in, 76-152 cm) has keeled scales and is dark brown in coloration. The average adult length is 22 40 inches (61- 107 cm). Common name:banded water snake, southern water snake. The head is often darker in color than the body and many individuals have a faint light brown ring, or light brown spots, just behind the head. They have a dark belly with brown to yellow patches and the underside of the tail is black. These snakes are not venomous but will often mimic the actions of a venomous snake to scare away prey. They can be observed throughout the Coastal Plain where they are found near lakes, rivers, swamps, and most commonly seen basking near the water source, soaking up the sun. They are seldom observed due to their secretive nature and if restrained, will seldom bite. This family of venomous snakes is characterized by having long, hinged fangs used for venom delivery. They are excellent at burrowing and spend the majority of their time underground, surfacing from May to October. The queen snake is a medium-sized slender snake that is common in flowing waters. The red bands are almost always surrounded by the black bands and the front of the snakes head is red. The banded water snake lives in the swamps, lakes, and rivers of Eastern South Carolina. They grow up to 10 inches (24.5cm) and have black spots on their backs and sides with a white to tan belly. Fun Fact: Neither of South Carolinas Hognose Snake species are common in captivity, but their west-coast cousin is! Cottonmouth (Water Moccasin) (Venomous), 10. The fact that venomous snake sighting happens so infrequently also testifies to the infrequency of snake bites. The typical adult size is between 18 26 inches (46 66 cm) and females are generally larger than males. The body is dark to light brown on top and white to pink on the bottom. They all belong to the Nerodia genus. The coastal area golf courses popular with the tourist crowd also contain water areas that these snakes might call home. If youve ever wondered how to tell venomous snakes from harmless snakes or how many types of venomous snakes there are in South Carolina, keep reading! The best thing you can do if you encounter a wild snake is to admire it from a distance. They are often encountered in abandoned buildings. They are sometimes encountered in aquatic habitats such as bays, swamps, marshes, slow-moving streams, lakes, ponds, and wetlands. They are not observed often, due to their secretive nature. Adults are large, heavy bodied snakes and have a uniformly greenish brown dorsum with a pale whitish unmarked belly. However, these stripes can be conspicuous to nonexistent in some individuals, and can range in color from yellow to brown to blueish green. They have patterns that alternate yellow, black, white, and red. The underside is generally dark grey to black. Southeastern crown snakes eat small insects and spiders and are mildly venomous to their prey but not dangerous to humans. Adults are heavy bodied and can reach lengths of over six feet (72in, 183cm). This snake averages a size of 14 24 inches (36 61cm). Common name:eastern ribbon snake, common ribbon snake. This is one of the most colorful and vibrant snakes in the Southeastern United States. Think logically. Of those bites, very few (if any) result in the victims death. Juveniles are similar in appearance to adults, but have a vibrant yellow tail. The Timber Rattlesnake, also known as a Canebrake Rattlesnake in some coastal potions of its range, is a large bodied pit viperwith an average adult size of 30-60 inches (76-152 cm). This is one of the longest snakes in the Southeastern United States with adults reaching up over 72 inches (244cm) in length. They can be encountered throughout South Carolina in woodlands, farmland, and coastal areas. Have you ever seen a reptile in the wild? They are not encountered very often, due to their secretive nature. This small and slender brown or grayish snake has smooth scales, an unmarked light brown to pale belly, and a small head. However, if youre new to the South Carolina scene, or even if youve been here all your life, there are a few snakes that youll need to watch out for, especially during the summer season. This small woodland snake has an average length of under 10 inches (25 cm). This snake is also known as the Yellow-lipped snake, named after the pale to yellowish lip (labial) scales though there is significant variation in this trait across its range. The 11 Snake Species Found in South Carolina: 1. These water snakes are not constrictors. The sides of the snake are usually yellow and the scales are smooth giving the snake has a glossy appearance. They can reach up to two feet in length and are generally gray, light brown, or reddish in color with darker blotches going down the back and sides. Their belly is black and red or pink checkerboards with some yellow on the head. In some populations this belly coloration can be pink or white. This species has the same natural predators as the other water snakes on our list. Cottonmouths or Water Moccasins are common in the east, where both snakes share a preference for water habitats. The pigmy rattlesnake in South Carolina prefers drier habitats, such as pine forests and sandhills. The black rat snakes are from the northern distribution and are black on the upper half with white in between the scales. They have keeled scales, a stout gray, tan or pinkish body, and irregular shaped dark blotches going down the back. Their appearance is similar to a cottonmouth, which is a species they share a home with, so they do get mistaken for cottonmouths often. The remainder of the article provides pictures and descriptions of some of the states most common snakes. Their large Triangular shaped copper-colored head gives them their common name. WebTwo subspecies of milk snakes, the Eastern and Scarlet inhabit South Carolina. Willson unless otherwise noted Description: Description: Eastern kingsnakes are large -- 36 48 in (90-122 cm) -- shiny-black, smooth-scaled snakes with white or yellow chain-link bands that cross the back and connect along the sides. Heat-sensing pits between the nostrils and eyes, Lack of red bands on the tail (only black and yellow), Black nose and face, as opposed to a red or yellow nose and face, Colored bands that wrap around the entire body, including the belly, Red bands that touch yellow bands, in comparison to red bands that touch black bands, Gray body with dark blotches (Gray Rat Snakes along the Savannah River), Solid black body with hint of white between scales (Black Rat Snakes mountains and Piedmont regions), Orangish-yellow body with four dark, lengthwise stripes (Yellow Rat Snakes along the coast), Remove any jewelry or clothing near the bite site, Call 911 and/or SC Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222, If possible, mentally note or photograph the snakes physical appearance, Immediately have someone drive you to the nearest emergency room or wait for an ambulance. The picture shows the Eastern Milk Snake. The species are carnivores, which means they like to snack on fish, frogs, and even other snakes at times. Their belly is orange to yellow with dark spots down the center. A post shared by Lane Leopard (@lane__leopard). Length: 14 22 in (38 56 cm) They can be observed in scrub habitats and pine forests. Adults average between 14-22 inches (38-56cm). Didn't find what you need? They also help to keep rodent and insect populations in check. Length: up to 60 in (152 cm) They are large and vary in appearance depending on their geographical range. Contact the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) Animal Poison Control Center on1-888-426-4435 for advice on what to do if a suspected venomous snake bites your pet and seek immediate veterinary advice. The Northern Watersnake (Nerodia sipedon), for example is the only mountain species. Snakes of South Carolina Tourists need to always be aware of but not always afraid of potential venomous snakes. The venomous coral snake is a medium and slender snake, growing up to 30 inches in length with smooth scales. Red-bellied snakes are small snakes that grow to around 10 inches. Their belly is yellow, white, or pink with smooth scales. The colors can vary and some have beautiful dark crossbands on brown and yellow, while others are plain black or brown. The Eastern Kingsnake is a long black snake with smooth scales and yellow/whitish chain-link markings extending down the back and connecting on the sides. They achieve lengths of 24-48 inches (61-122 cm) and have keeled scales. While this species can be active all the time, youll see them out hunting most often at night. Eastern garter snakes grow up to 26 inches with three yellow stripes that run down their body. Continue reading to help you identify the snakes you may come across in South Carolina. They have keeled scales, a stout gray, tan or pinkish body, and irregular shaped dark blotches going down the back. They are found in the coastal Plain and in a variety of aquatic habitats including bays, sphagnum bogs, ponds, lakes, ditches, and saw grass prairies. This species of snake is infamous and can often be seen swimming in the water in South Carolina swamps, rivers, and waterways. Mud snakes are large non-venomous aquatic snakes that are very seldom observed, as they are so secretive. The milk snake is restricted to the mountainous areas in northwest South Carolina, while the scarlet kingsnake is found in the sandy habitats of the Coastal Plain. WebThis Web site provides some information about the snakes that occur in upstate South Carolina. Unfortunately, this snake is venomous, and many of the above snakes are harmed when people think they have run across a cottonmouth. WebThe head is solid brown with two dots on the top of the head. Juvenile redbellies look very different from the adults as they are boldly marked with series of dark crossbands on the neck and They reach between 24 and 40 inches in length and are carnivores who feast on small animals and fish on and off the land. WebStill look for Hershey kisses but they are more pixelated in appearance than the Hershey kisses on copperheads. The timber or canebrake rattlesnake is a large snake with rattles on the end of the tail. Pygmy Rattlesnakes (sometimes spelled Pigmy) live in the Coastal Plains Region of South Carolina. They are common in the Coastal Plain and being highly aquatic they prefer wetland habitats. 5 Best Sources of Iron for Dogs (& How Much They Need Daily), 10 DIY Reptile Enclosures You Can Build Today (With Pictures). The adult is brown to tan in color with a black chin and head and a black band on the neck. It typically has three pale yellowish stripes extending down the length of the dorsum. Younger snakes are tan or gray with brown to red patches down the middle of their backs, their patterns and colors turn black when they reach around 12 inches. Scarlet snakes are small and slender snakes, growing to around 20 inches in length. The dorsal coloration can range from tan to dark brown and can often have an iridescent shimmer. Females are generally larger than males. Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake They have smooth scales with a spine-like scale on their tail, which is why they are sometimes called horn snakes. They are solid black above, have smooth scales and large eyes. Red-bellied Watersnake These snakes are small heavy-bodied snakes that are gray to brown with a pointed snout and smooth scales. They have a black and white checked pattern on the belly. Common name:pygmy rattlesnake. Venomous As its name suggests, this venomous rattlesnake is small in size. The red bands throughout most of the body are usually bordered by yellow bands. The snakes best known as Black racers inhabit most areas in the East from southern Maine to the Florida Keys. Common name:eastern coral snake, common coral snake, American cobra. They have nine large scales on the top of their heads and a tiny rattle you can barely hear. They are mostly seen in the spring and fall. Willson Timber Rattlesnake ( VENOMOUS ) Credit: J.D. They achieve lengths of 24-48 inches (61-122 cm) and have keeled scales. They are often found under leaf litter, rocks, and logs. Some individuals may have reddish or orange highlights incorporated in the pattern. The juveniles generally are light gray in color with dark blotches going down the back. They have a light-colored belly with brown patches and black crescents. Copperheads are venomous and large snakes, growing up to 37 inches. They are generally characterized by having fixed, front fangs used for venom delivery. The base color is a glossy back with a red or pink belly with black spots and color on the sides and the head. From proper husbandry and habitat guidance, to articles on health concerns, diet, and extensive care guides, Reptile Guide is here to educate everyone on all things reptiles. If approached, they will hiss, vibrate their tail and strike, but they are not venomous. The 11 Snake Species Found in South Carolina: 8 Snake Species Found in Georgia (With Pictures), 7. As the most common venomous snake in both North and South Carolina, copperheads can be found all over each state. Whether you have concerns about your dog, cat, or other pet, trained vets have the answers! When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Rattlesnakes also live along the coastal areas. Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake (Venomous). The Eastern kingsnake is a large smooth scaled snake that is shiny black, growing up to 48 inches. Though its very seldom fatal, the bite of a copperhead is poisonous, so you do need to seek medical treatment if bitten. They are agile and fast and will flee if approached. Body color in these snakes is very much a function of geography and climate. The scarlet snake is a small slender snake that is vibrantly colored. Older adults are usually solid brown to almost black in appearance. They are a separate genera and fairly common in the Southeast. For more information, please read our privacy policy. Snakes in Juveniles are typically tan on their whole body and may have irregular dark bands on the head and neck. The adult size of this snake is generally between 50 60 inches (127 152 cm), but can be up to 90 inches long (228 cm) They have a relatively small head with four prefrontal scales (scales on the top of the head in front of the eyes and behind internasal scales). Common name:timber rattlesnake, canebrake rattlesnake, banded rattlesnake. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Older adults are usually solid brown to almost black in appearance. Even more in-depth species information is available from the Savannah River Ecology Laboratorys Herpetology program. Younger snakes show significantly more patterning with alternating dark brown and light brown cross bands going down the body, and a uniformly dark tail. Their heads are small with a pointed snout.
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