Snakes of North Carolina Online Identification System
by Davidson College Herpetology Laboratory

Start by choosing only few criteria you are sure about, and then hit the “Search” button. Later you can change the input if you are not satisfied with the results. To start over, hit the “Reset” button.

Characteristics Options Explanations, Tips, Hints
Snake Length
 Keep in mind, people often overestimate snake lengths.
Location where found

Select the region of NC where the snake was observed ( Open Map ).
Body Form
 A snake body with dimensions proportional to a pencil is considered “Moderate;” thinner than a pencil would be considered “Slender;” and thicker than a pencil would be “Stocky.”
Scale type
 See images below
Pattern
 Main pattern on the back of the snake (See images below).
Main Background Color
 Main color on the back of the snake
Belly Color
 Do NOT pick up an unidentified live snake to determine its belly color
Distinctive Characteristics
 Some snakes have certain features that set them apart from most other species
Time of day
 Time during which snake was observed
Behavior
 Some snakes behave in ways that are characteristic and thus, useful in identification
Found in Water?
 Certain snakes have a higher probability of being found in water
     
Scale Type Body Form Background Pattern

Smooth
Smooth Scales

Keeled (Rough)
Keeled Scales

(click to enlarge)

Slender

Moderate

Stocky

Striped

Head

Tail

Banded

Head

Tail

Blotched

Head

Tail

-= GO Back to SEARCH! - NC Snakes - Davidson College Herp Lab - Contact us - Credits =-