How to identify North Carolina's snakes -- and steer clear of them
The weather is getting warmer, and that means you can expect to see more snakes slithering around.
Experts say more than 30 different species of snakes live in North Carolina. Most live in wooded areas, but they can also be found in your own backyard.
The most common venomous snake North Carolinians should watch out for is a copperhead. Experts say, if you see one, don't panic -- leave it alone and walk away.
According to the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission, many of the snakes in North Carolina are harmless and, if given space, they will move out of the way.
Here are a few simple things you can do at home to help keep snakes away from your yard:
- Clean up the clutter by removing piles of rocks, wood and other debris that attract rodents and snakes.
- Snakes prefer tall grasses, so keep the grass cut short.
- If you have children, teach them about snake safety.
"The more a young person knows about those things and knows how to identify the non-venomous versus the venomous snakes, they're going to be better off," said Falyn Owens from N.C. Wildlife.
"If a small child just learns the lesson that, if you see a snake, just leave it alone and don't touch it, then that's going to be great advice no matter who you are."
If you need help identifying a snake, you can call the commission at 866-318-2401 or look the information up online.
