North Carolina Has Highest Estimated Rate of Venomous Snakebites

ASHEVILLE, N.C. — A recent national analysis from 2026 indicates that North Carolina tops the charts for venomous snakebites per capita in the United States. The report shows that the state has about 856 venomous snakebites each year, translating to roughly 18.79 incidents for every 100,000 residents.

While Texas reports the highest actual number of venomous snakebites—over 1,400 annually—North Carolina’s rate is more pronounced when accounting for population size.

The states with the highest estimated rates of venomous snakebites are as follows:

1. North Carolina: 18.79 incidents per 100,000 people
2. Arkansas: 17.19 incidents per 100,000 people
3. Texas: 14.70 incidents per 100,000 people
4. Georgia: 13.44 incidents per 100,000 people
5. West Virginia: 11.29 incidents per 100,000 people
6. Mississippi: 10.83 incidents per 100,000 people
7. Louisiana: 10.25 incidents per 100,000 people
8. Oklahoma: 8.85 incidents per 100,000 people
9. Arizona: 7.83 incidents per 100,000 people
10. South Carolina: 7.72 incidents per 100,000 people

During warmer months, people in North Carolina might find themselves at risk of snake bites in various locations. Whether it’s yards in the Piedmont region, hiking on the Blue Ridge trails, or exploring coastal plain wetlands, encounters with snakes can happen anywhere.

North Carolina is home to several venomous species, such as copperheads, cottonmouths, rattlesnakes, and the less common eastern coral snake. Among these, copperheads are the most frequently found. They live in wooded and suburban areas across the state and usually only bite when they are stepped on or disturbed. Thankfully, bites from these snakes are rarely fatal.

Timber rattlesnakes are often seen in the mountainous regions of western North Carolina, while cottonmouths and other rattlesnake varieties are primarily found in the eastern part of the state.

What Should You Do If Bitten by a Snake?

Symptoms of a snake bite can differ but generally include puncture marks, bleeding, swelling, redness, and pain around the affected area. People may also experience nausea, a rapid heartbeat, weakness, difficulty breathing, and muscle twitching.

If bitten, it’s important to stay calm and move to a safe place to avoid further bites. If possible, take a photo of the snake from a safe distance—this can help medical professionals identify the species.

Immediately seek emergency medical assistance by calling 911. You can also reach out to North Carolina Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 for initial first-aid advice.

Remove any tight clothing or accessories around the bite area, wash it gently with soap and water, and cover it with a clean dressing if you can.

What Not to Do After a Snake Bite

• Do not attempt to pick up or handle the snake.
• Do not delay seeking medical care.
• Do not use a tourniquet or tight bandages.
• Do not try to suck the venom out of the bite.
• Do not apply ice to the wound.
• Do not take blood thinners like aspirin or ibuprofen.