South Carolina — With its lush state parks, rolling Blue Ridge foothills, and sprawling coastal swamps, South Carolina is a hiker’s paradise. But as temperatures rise and trails fill with outdoor enthusiasts, another local resident is becoming active: the venomous snake.
While most of the state’s 38 snake species are harmless, six are venomous and pose a genuine threat to unsuspecting hikers. Before you lace up your boots this season, learn to identify the "Big Six" and what to do if you cross their path.
1. The Copperhead: The Master of Camouflage
Risk Level: High (Most common venomous bite in SC) Habitat: Forests, rocky hillsides, and even suburban backyards.
The Copperhead is responsible for the majority of venomous snakebites in the state, largely because they are incredibly difficult to see. Unlike other snakes that flee, Copperheads tend to freeze when approached, relying on their camouflage.
- How to Spot It: Look for a coppery-tan head and a distinct hourglass pattern (often described as "Hershey Kisses") running down the sides of its body.
- Hiker Tip: Watch where you step, especially over fallen logs or into piles of leaves.
2. The Cottonmouth (Water Moccasin): The Swamp Sentinel
Risk Level: Moderate to High Habitat: Swamps, rivers, drainage ditches, and wetlands.
Found primarily in the Midlands and Coastal Plain, the Cottonmouth is the state's only venomous water snake. They are known to stand their ground when threatened, flashing the stark white interior of their mouths as a warning.
- How to Spot It: A thick, heavy body that is dark olive, brown, or black. When swimming, their entire body floats on the water's surface (unlike non-venomous water snakes, which swim with only their heads exposed).
- Hiker Tip: If you are hiking near water, keep your eyes on the muddy banks.
3. The Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake: The Heavyweight
Risk Level: High (Most dangerous venom) Habitat: Dry pine forests, sandhills, and coastal dunes.
This is the largest venomous snake in North America and arguably the most dangerous in South Carolina due to its massive size and high venom yield.
- How to Spot It: Look for the unmistakable dark diamonds outlined in yellow running down its back and a large rattle at the end of its tail.
- Hiker Tip: Listen for the rattle, but don't rely on it—sometimes they strike without warning.
4. The Timber (Canebrake) Rattlesnake: The Silent Hunter
Risk Level: High Habitat: Varied; from mountain forests to coastal cane thickets.
In the Upstate, they are known as Timber Rattlesnakes; in the Lowcountry, they are often called Canebrakes. They are patient ambush predators and can remain motionless for days.
- How to Spot It: Look for a chevron (V-shaped) pattern and a rust-colored stripe running down the center of the back (common in the Canebrake variety).
- Hiker Tip: They are often found coiled near fallen timber or sunning on rocky outcrops.
5. The Pigmy Rattlesnake: The Tiny Aggressor
Risk Level: Moderate Habitat: Pine flatwoods, sandhills, and near marshes.
Don't let the name fool you. While rarely exceeding two feet in length, the Pigmy Rattlesnake has a feisty temper. Its rattle is so small it often sounds like a buzzing insect, making it easy to miss until you are too close.
- How to Spot It: Grey or lavender color with dark, irregular blotches and a tiny rattle.
- Hiker Tip: Wear thick hiking boots; their small fangs often cannot penetrate heavy leather.
6. The Coral Snake: Beautiful but Deadly
Risk Level: High (Neurotoxic venom), but encounters are rare. Habitat: Sandy pine and scrub oak forests in the Coastal Plain.
The Coral Snake is the odd one out—it’s not a viper and has round pupils. It possesses the most potent venom of any SC snake (related to the cobra), but it is reclusive and bites are extremely rare.
- How to Spot It: Remember the rhyme: "Red touch black, safe for Jack. Red touch yellow, kill a fellow."
- Hiker Tip: Never pick up a colorful snake.
Safety Guide: How to Stay Safe on the Trails
- Stick to the Trail: Snakes often hide in tall grass and underbrush. Staying on clear paths reduces your risk significantly.
- Wear Proper Gear: Leave the flip-flops at home. Closed-toe shoes and long pants (or gaiters) provide a barrier against fangs.
- Don't Touch: A large percentage of bites occur when people try to kill, handle, or move a snake. If you see one, simply back away slowly.
What to Do If Bitten
- Call 911 Immediately: Time is tissue. The only effective treatment for envenomation is antivenom.
- Stay Calm: Panicking raises your heart rate and spreads venom faster.
- Remove Constrictions: Take off rings, watches, and tight clothing near the bite before swelling begins.
- Keep the Limb Neutral: Keep the bite area at or slightly below heart level.
- DO NOT: Do not apply a tourniquet, do not apply ice, and never try to suck out the venom. These "home remedies" often cause more damage than the bite itself.
Hiking in South Carolina is a rewarding experience, but it demands respect for the wildlife that calls it home. Stay alert, watch your step, and enjoy the beauty of the Palmetto State safely.
