South Carolina Wildlife Alert: The Dangerous Pests You Need to Watch Out For Right Now

Clemson Extension and state wildlife officials are currently monitoring several high-priority threats that residents should watch for during this unseasonably hot spring.

1. The "Heat-Wave" Insect Surge: Aphids and Mites

Clemson Extension's field updates for mid-April 2026 highlight a significant increase in pest populations due to the dry, dusty weather.

• Spider Mites: These tiny pests are multiplying rapidly across the state. They thrive in hot, dry conditions and can devastate home gardens and strawberry crops. Look for yellow mottling on leaves or fine webbing.
• Aphids and Thrips: These are currently very active. Thrips, in particular, are causing an unusual "orangish" coloration on fruits in the Upstate.
• The Warning: Officials advise against using broad-spectrum insecticides (like pyrethroids), as these kill the "beneficial" insects that are currently trying to keep these pest populations in check.

2. Thirsty Wildlife: Raccoon and Coyote Alert

The ongoing drought in the Lowcountry and Midlands has made local wildlife desperate for water.

• The Hazard: Residents and growers have reported an increase in coyotes and raccoons entering residential yards and agricultural fields to chew through drip lines and irrigation hoses.
• Action: Be cautious when checking irrigation systems or woodpiles. Desperate wildlife may be more prone to bold behavior or defensive strikes when cornered while searching for moisture.

3. Venomous Snakes: Emerging from Brumation

With the ground thawing and temperatures hitting record highs this month, South Carolina's six venomous snake species are fully active. Most are currently moving through residential areas in search of water and prey.

• The Copperhead: The State most common venomous snake. They are highly camouflaged in pine straw and mulch. In the Upstate and Piedmont, they are frequently found along fence rows and under rhododendrons.
• The Cottonmouth (Water Moccasin). Given the dry conditions, Cottonmouths are congregating more heavily around the remaining edges of Carolina bays and lake beds. They are more likely to "stand their ground" with an open-mouth display than other species.
• The Rattlesnakes Both the Timber Rattlesnake (mountain and coastal forms) and the Eastern Diamondback are active. In the Lowcountry, be especially mindful of the Pigmy Rattlesnake; it is small, hard to hear, and often found near freshwater sources.

4. Tick and "Poppy Seed" Nymph Season

The mild start to the year has led to an aggressive tick season. In April, the primary concern is the nymph stage of the Black-legged (Deer) Tick and the Lone Star Tick.

• The Size: These nymphs are no larger than a poppy seed, making them incredibly difficult to spot.
• The Risk: South Carolina remains a high-risk area for Lyme Disease and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever.
• Prevention: After gardening or hiking, perform a "pressure check" by feeling for small bumps on the skin that don't wash off.

5. Callery (Bradford) Pear: The Invasive Reminder

While not a "pest" in the biting sense, April is the peak of the Callery Pear bloom. The South Carolina Invasive Pest Council remains on high alert regarding this species, which has officially been banned for sale in the state.

• Why It Matters: These trees are structurally weak and prone to snapping during spring thunderstorms, posing a danger to power lines and homes. They also outcompete native plants that support the State bird and pollinator populations.
• Action: If you have one on your property, consider the "Bounty" programs often offered by state agencies to replace them with native species like Flowering Dogwood or Serviceberry.

Summary Checklist for South Carolina Residents

• Hydration Stations: To keep coyotes and raccoons away from your irrigation lines, consider placing a small water dish at the far edge of your property.
• Garden Defense: Use miticides that target different life stages of spider mites rather than general bug sprays.
• Snake Safety: Always wear closed-toe shoes when walking through pine straw or near water edges.
• Tick Check: Use Picaridin or DEET if you are spending time in high-grass areas or the Lowcountry woods.