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North Carolina, from its coastline with the Atlantic Ocean to its towering Appalachian Mountains, is a wellspring of ecological diversity. The state鈥檚 wildlife is just as diverse, with thousands of unique animals spread throughout the nation. While most, such as the white-tailed deer and northern cardinal, are a joyous site when out and about, the same can鈥檛 always be said for snakes. In total, North Carolina is home to six venomous snake species, out of three are rattlesnakes. These are the eastern diamondback, timber, and pygmy rattlesnake, all defined by their tail鈥檚 distinct 鈥渞attle鈥� sound. Each of these species has potent venom that is best avoided, especially in the wild. To ensure you don鈥檛 stumble into one of these reptiles by mistake, this article delves into the five most rattlesnake-infested areas in North Carolina.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Nestled in eastern North Carolina and Tennessee, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a 522,000-acre expanse of wilderness. It is one of the most popular parks in the region, boasting unique landmarks such as Mount Guyot, the Tennessee River, and even historic sites like the Cades Cover Historic District. To this end, hiking abounds here, and the park has over 800 miles of trails ready for exploration. While on these trails, animals are a common sight, and hikers often spot American black bears, elk, and salamanders.

Along with the hundreds of animals in this park, the timber rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus) has a prominent population here. This pit viper is endemic to the region and prefers forested areas with thick foliage and hiding places. The snake has a yellowish-brown coloration with darker crossbands across its body. It can reach lengths of up to 60 inches and weigh 10 pounds, making it one of the largest snakes in North Carolina. Timber rattlesnakes are also among the most dangerous species due to their potent venom, which is neurotoxic and homotoxic. A bite can cause severe bleeding and tissue damage, so quick medical attention is advised if bitten. Apart from rattlesnakes, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is also home to northern water snakes, black rat snakes, and copperheads.

Croatan National Forest

On the western end of the state, the Croatan National Forest is one of North Carolina鈥檚 most rattlesnake-infested areas. Home to all three species of rattlesnakes in the state, it is important to watch your feet when out and about in this forest. The eastern diamondback rattlesnake (Crotalus adamanteus) is one of the most common, as it thrives in the forest's various sandy areas, a prime habitat for this species. This is one of the largest known species of rattlesnakes, with one specimen reaching a whopping 7.8 feet in length and 34 pounds in weight. Moreover, they have a potent venom with over 50 different toxins, and bites have a mortality rate of around 20%. Thankfully, the eastern diamondback is relatively easy to spot due to its large size, prominent rattle, and brownish-gray coloration with continuous diamond-shaped blotches. So, if you ever hear a rattling in this forest, be sure to walk the other way.

While rattlesnakes may live in Croatan National Forest, it is still a lovely place for outdoor recreation. Hiking trails are abundant, and options like the Neusiok Trail provide adventurers with 21 miles of scenery through swamps and pine forests. Along with this, there are various rivers and lakes in the forest that are ideal for swimming, fishing, and boating, so you can get away from snakes in the water. That said, if you plan on camping here, be sure to carry a first aid kit to be on the safer side.

Lake Mattamuskeet

Two hours northeast of Croatan National Forest, Lake Mattamuskeet is North Carolina鈥檚 largest natural lake. The lake is 18 miles long and 7 miles wide, opening up endless opportunities for activities. Fishing is among the most popular, as the lake is home to bass, catfish, bream, and crappie. Visitors can also head onto the water with a boat to witness the views firsthand. Moreover, the lake is surrounded by a wildlife refuge, boasting 50,000 acres of protected land home to otters, bobcats, and even black bears.

When it comes to rattlesnakes, the pygmy rattlesnake is one you might spot here. This species prefers living near swamps and lakes, making the surrounding forests an ideal habitat. Pygmy rattlesnakes are unique, sporting a different look than their siblings. This snake has a light gay coloration with a lengthwise row of darker blotches divided by a reddish-orange stripe. While their bright coloration may seem scary, pygmy rattlesnakes are also one of the least dangerous, as most are unable to produce enough venom for a fatal bite. That said, don鈥檛 get too close, as their venom is still cytotoxic and can sometimes lead to tissue damage. Pygmy rattlesnakes are also great swimmers, so keep an eye out for their bright red strip when you鈥檙e in the water.

Green Swamp Preserve

The Green Swamp Preserve is one of North Carolina鈥檚 most important nature areas. This 16,000 stretch of land is a National Natural Landmark that protects a rich diversity of flora and fauna in the southern part of the state. It has various plants, such as the Venus flytrap, and is also a habitat for migrating birds along the Atlantic Flyway. To this end, recreation is limited, but there are still plenty of hiking and biking trails, such as the Florida National Scenic Trail, to explore the wilderness.

While walking in the Green Swamp Preserve, you鈥檒l have to look out for the timber rattlesnake. While not very common along trails, this snake thrives in the preserve鈥檚 moist environment, which offers various places to hide and hunt. Moreover, with the abundance of birds and small mammals, the timber rattlesnake has an abundance of food options here. That said, they are generally not aggressive towards humans and will retreat unless threatened. While most bites are preceded by a rattling sound, getting too close can provoke the snake to strike directly, so make sure you give them a wide berth. If you want to avoid the risk, visit in winter, when timber rattlesnakes are less active and unlikely to come near humans.

Uwharrie National Forest

Nestled in Montgomery County, Uwharrie National Forest is one of North Carolina鈥檚 premier outdoor areas. Spanning over 50,000 acres, it is the smallest national forest in the state, but don't let that fool you. Uwharrie National Forest abounds with water bodies such as the Pee Dee River and forests of pine and oak trees. This diverse ecology creates many rocky areas with crevices that are ideal for rattlesnake habitats.

To this end, the timber rattlesnake is a species that lives in the Uwharrie National Forest. Mostly found near mountainous regions in the forest, visitors should keep an eye out for these reptiles when out and about. Specifically, activities like hiking and camping pose a high risk, as people can easily be caught off guard and within striking range of a timber rattlesnake. Thankfully, the rattling sound should provide some seconds of warning to get away from the snake. Apart from rattlesnakes, copperheads are another venomous species to watch out for in this forest. That said, you鈥檒l be safer from most dangerous snakes if you opt for activities like horseback riding, boating, and swimming. These activities keep you off the ground and away from probably snake-hiding spots.

From the tranquil waters of Lake Mattamuskeet to the lush fauna of Uwharrie National Forests, rattlesnakes live in many parts of North Carolina. With its three distinct species, each host to their own personality and venom, it is important to know which one you might encounter before exploring North Carolina鈥檚 wilderness. That said, be sure to have a blast, as the chances of a bite are slim, and even if you are bitten, timely medical care is available in most spots.