With thousands of distinct animals dispersed around the country, the state’s fauna is equally varied.
While most animals, like northern cardinals and white-tailed deer, are beautiful to see when they’re out and about, snakes aren’t usually that way. Three of the six venomous snake species found in North Carolina are rattlesnakes.
These include the pygmy, timber, and eastern diamondback rattlesnakes, which are distinguished by the characteristic “rattle” of their tails. It is advised to stay away from the strong venom of each of these species, especially when they are in the wild.
This article explores North Carolina’s five most rattlesnake-infested regions to make sure you don’t unintentionally run into one of these animals.
Green Swamp Preserve
One of the most significant natural sites in North Carolina is the Green Swamp Preserve. This 16,000-acre area, which is a National Natural Landmark, preserves a wide variety of plants and animals in the state’s southern region.
You must watch out for timber rattlesnakes when strolling through the Green Swamp Preserve. This snake is uncommon along routes, but it thrives in the wet atmosphere of the preserve, which provides a variety of hiding and hunting spots.
Additionally, the timber rattlesnake has a wide variety of food sources here due to the large number of birds and small mammals. Nevertheless, they usually do not act aggressively against people and would flee if they feel threatened.
Although the majority of bites are preceded by a rattling sound, if you approach too closely, the snake may strike you straight, so keep a safe distance.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The 522,000-acre Great Smoky Mountains National Park is tucked away in eastern Tennessee and western North Carolina.
With distinctive landmarks like Mount Guyot, the Tennessee River, and even historic places like the Cades Cover Historic District, it is one of the most visited parks in the area.
This park is home to hundreds of creatures, including a significant population of timber rattlesnakes (Crotalus horridus). Being native to the area, this pit viper favors wooded environments with dense undergrowth and hiding spots.
The snake is yellowish-brown in appearance, with darker stripes along the length of its body. It is one of the biggest snakes in North Carolina, growing up to 60 inches in length and weighing 10 pounds.
The strong, homotoxic, and neurotoxic venom of timber rattlesnakes makes them one of the most lethal animals.
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If you are bitten, you should get medical help right once since bites can cause serious bleeding and tissue damage.
Croatan National Forest
One of North Carolina’s most rattlesnake-infested regions is the Croatan National Forest on the western side of the state.
This woodland is home to all three of the state’s rattlesnake species, so it’s crucial to watch your feet when you’re out and about. One of the most prevalent is the eastern diamondback rattlesnake (Crotalus adamanteus), which flourishes in the forest’s many sandy patches, which are ideal habitat for this species.
One of the largest known species of rattlesnakes, at an incredible 7.8 feet in length and 34 pounds in weight, is this one. Additionally, their bites have a 20% fatality rate, and their venom is strong, containing more than 50 distinct poisons.
Even though Croatan National Forest is home to rattlesnakes, it’s still a great spot for outdoor activities. There are many hiking paths, including the Neusiok Trail offers hikers 21 kilometers of breathtaking views through pine forests and marshes.
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Lake Mattamuskeet
With its 18-mile length and 7-mile width, the lake offers countless recreational opportunities.
You may see the pygmy rattlesnake here, among other types of rattlesnakes. The nearby forests provide the perfect habitat for this species, which prefers to live close to lakes and marshes.
The distinctive appearance of pygmy rattlesnakes sets them apart from their brothers. A reddish-orange stripe separates a lengthwise series of darker blotches in this snake’s light gay coloring.
Despite their striking appearance, pygmy rattlesnakes are among the least dangerous since the majority of them cannot produce enough venom to be lethal if they are bitten.
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However, keep in mind that their venom is still cytotoxic and can occasionally cause tissue damage, so avoid getting too close. Since pygmy rattlesnakes can swim rather well, look for their vivid red stripe when you’re in the water.
Uwharrie National Forest
One of North Carolina’s best recreational destinations is Uwharrie National Forest, which is tucked away in Montgomery County. It is the state’s smallest national forest, covering more over 50,000 acres.
Accordingly, one species found in the Uwharrie National Forest is the timber rattlesnake. When out and about, visitors should look for these reptiles, which are primarily found in the forest close to mountainous areas.
Activities like hiking and camping are particularly dangerous since they can quickly catch individuals off guard and put them in a timber rattlesnake’s striking range.
Fortunately, the rattling sound should give you a few seconds’ notice to avoid the snake. In addition to rattlesnakes, copperheads are another poisonous species in this woodland that should be avoided.
Final Thoughts
Raccoons can be found across North Carolina, from the serene Lake Mattamuskeet to the verdant Uwharrie National Forests.
Knowing which of its three different kinds you might come across before venturing into North Carolina’s backcountry is crucial since each one has its own personality and venom.
However, the likelihood of getting bitten is low, and most places offer prompt medical attention even if you are bitten, so make sure to have a great day.
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