Topics Related to Reptiles - Snakes

Scientific Name: Lampropeltis triangulum triangulum

Photo Credits: Todd Pierson

Living on wooded slopes, the Eastern Milksnake is usually gray or brown with reddish blotches on its back. They eat small snakes, lizards, and mice and are non-venomous.The Eastern Milksnake is usually found hiding under large stones. 

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Scientific Name: Lampropeltis getula

Photo Credits: JD Wilson

Eating rodents, eggs, amphibians, and reptiles, the Eastern Kingsnake is a strong constrictor. The snake is non-venomous and active during the day. They can be found around farms and suburban areas. The Eastern Kingsnake has a chain-like pattern of whitish-yellow bars with a black back.

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Scientific Name: Heterodon platirhinos

Photo Credits: Brad Moon

Usually brown or gray with dark brown blotches, the Eastern Hognose Snake has an upturned nose to dig for toads. They are non-venomous with enlarged teeth for swallowing. The snake, when threatened, will play dead by opening its mouth and rolling on its back.

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Scientific Name:  Thamnophis sirtalis sirtalis

Classification:  Nongame

Abundance:  Common throughout the state

Photo Credits: JD Wilson

Scientific Name:  Elaphe guttata (Pantherophis guttatus)

Classification:  Nongame

Abundance:  Most common in the southeastern Coastal Plain

Photo Credits: Jeff Hall

Scientific Name: Masticophis flagellum

Photo Credits: JD Wilson

Coachwhips are agile hunters, eating lizards, mice and other snakes. They are found in the Sandhills of North Carolina and parts of the southeastern Coastal Plain. The snake is non-venomous. Growing up to 8 feet in length, they can climb trees and bushes. Its tail resembles a braided whip, and its body is blackish brown.

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Scientific Name: Storeria dekayi

Photo Credits: JD Wilson

The Brown Snake can be found in forests under logs and rocks. It is light brown with gray and reddish-brown hues and a row of dark spots on its sides. The snake eats snails, slugs and earthworms and is non-venomous. Brown snakes have 4-25 offspring every summer.

Explore the full species profile, including their habitat, diet, and behavior on Herps of NC.