We live in NC eastern Piedmont (central)
This trail area a few weeks ago had posted copperhead sightings but this one wasn't copper colored and the large triangles were distinct. It was about 2 feet and not so wide or skinny. It just lay still in the path with it's head a little raised. We slowly walked behind it to pass it and it just lay still.
I wanted to get closer to study the shape of it's head but I didn't want to push my luck since I was with 2 5yr old girls. I haven't been able to identify it yet - any ideas? TIA!
2007-09-25 05:27:15 · 6 answers · asked by karunadd@yahoo.com 2 in Pets ➔ Reptiles
It was not the rat snake. The black triangles were neatly patterned on the sides.
???
2007-09-25 05:41:06 · update #1
Thanks for your replies- I found it!!
http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/gaston/Pests/reptiles/copperhead.htm
2007-09-25 05:53:54 · update #2
this will help you to identify the snake. just answer the questions and you should get an answer. then put the answer in your search engine and pull up the picture to see if that is the snake you seen
http://www.bio.davidson.edu/projects/herpcons/herps_of_NC/snakes/SnakeID/search.asp
2007-09-25 05:49:17 · answer #1 · answered by g g 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋
First of all, if you don't know what species it is, the best thing .to do is to just don't go near it. Head shape has nothing to do with species or if it is venomous or non-venomous. We have several species of highly venomous snakes at our research centre that have the same shaped head as their non-venomous look-a-likes. As for what species of snake you saw, it could have been a copperhead, or a subspecies of a pinesnake in its lite phase. Next time time, bring a camera with you so you can zoom in and take a photo of it and post it. Cameras are also a great way for you and your daughters to discuss some of the neat flora and fawna that is in you area and learn about it.
Good on ya' mate.
2007-09-25 05:57:32 · answer #2 · answered by Slow Hand 4 · 0⤊ 2⤋
It actually sounds like the description of a Timber rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus). That being said obviously leave it alone and do not harass it. This of course is not a 100% identification, but could be one of the possibilities. These rattlesnakes are a little less likely to rattle,unless really provoked. As far as "pushing your luck", you shouldn't even without the girls. These are beautiful snakes, but are venomous and can injure you severely. If you see one again, I would love to see a photograph posted. Take care and enjoy the snakes beauty safely.
2007-09-25 05:39:49 · answer #3 · answered by Lee S 6 · 1⤊ 3⤋
Rat snake
2007-09-25 05:33:46 · answer #4 · answered by ignoramus 7 · 0⤊ 2⤋
A lot of snakes have triangle patterens on them, including a lot of rattle snakes. Knowing head shape would help. Too bad you didn't get a picture.
2007-09-25 05:52:23 · answer #5 · answered by Chic 6 · 0⤊ 3⤋
probly a gaboon viper
http://www.lth3.k12.il.us/Museums/Triopia/images/gaboon_v.jpg
2007-09-25 05:37:38 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 3⤋