Step 1: Browse through our species guides by clicking on the tabs at the top of each page. Each species account has descriptions of the animal, pictures to help identify them, and facts about them such as their ecology and whether or not they’re dangerous to humans.
Step 2: If you were unable to identify the species you’re looking for, send a picture and brief description of the animal, its location, and its behavior to us at ncparc@ncherps.org. If you have a photo of a snake that you would like to have identified, consider posting it in the Snake Identification Group on Facebook. Posting your photo and the location where it was taken to this group can often get you a faster response from snake identification professionals.
A picture of of the species will be the most helpful resource you can provide us, but if you are unable to find a picture then try to describe the species you found with as much detail as you can. For snake species, here are some features that can help us help you identify:
- Approximate size of the snake (e.g. 1 foot, 3 feet, 6 feet, etc)
- Coloration
- Distinct markings or patterns
- Head shape (broad/triangular vs narrow/rounded)
- Body shape (heavy-bodied vs thin)
- Presence of a rattle
Remember to never touch, pick up, or provoke any animal you cannot identify!
