In addition to their rattle, pigmy rattlesnakes, Sistrurus miliarius, have a dark, spotted pattern on gray, pinkish or red skin. Their rattle sounds more like a buzz than a rattle. Pigmy rattlesnakes are more likely to be found in the southeastern part of the state.
Typical adult length: 1-2 feet
Habitat: forests
Defenses used: camouflaging, rattling its tail (sometimes)
Bite severity: Bites from rattlesnakes are usually more severe than other NC venomous snakes and are a medical emergency.
Call NC Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or chat from this site for snakebite treatment advice or for questions about the venomous snakes in our area.
