Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Stay Alert: North Carolina's 37 Snake Species Revealed

9/22/2025

32 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

North Carolina spans mountains to coastal plains, hosting 37 snake species, six venomous.
Be vigilant near water; venomous snakes, including the cottonmouth, inhabit the area.
Common snakes—Northern water snakes and timber rattlesnakes—live near lakes and rivers.
The Black River is a 50-mile Cape Fear tributary with bald cypress and Santee chub.
Stay on well-trafficked paths to reduce snake encounters.

History

Historical Context

The Endangered Species Act was enacted in 1975 to safeguard wildlife, including North Carolina's diverse snake population, which features 37 species, six of which are venomous. The cottonmouth and timber rattlesnake, often found near water, underscore the critical need for habitat conservation amid increasing human encroachment, which threatens both public safety and biodiversity.

1 of 2

Story summary

North Carolina spans mountains to coastal plains, hosting 37 snake species, six venomous.
Be vigilant near water; venomous snakes, including the cottonmouth, inhabit the area.
Common snakes—Northern water snakes and timber rattlesnakes—live near lakes and rivers.
The Black River is a 50-mile Cape Fear tributary with bald cypress and Santee chub.
Stay on well-trafficked paths to reduce snake encounters.

1 / 2