Here's something that might make you think twice before your next swim: A waterway just outside Wilmington has earned a spot on North Carolina's list of most snake-populated waters. But before you panic, there's more to this story than meets the eye...
The Tar Heel State boasts an impressive diversity of serpent species—37 different kinds, to be exact, as documented by the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission. The greater Wilmington region hosts its fair share of these fascinating reptiles, making encounters more common than many residents might realize.
Among the slithering inhabitants are some genuinely hazardous varieties, including the venomous cottonmouth (also called water moccasin), the copperhead, and the strikingly colored coral snake—all of which call Southeastern North Carolina home. (https://www.starnewsonline.com/picture-gallery/news/local/2025/05/06/dangerous-creatures-found-in-wilmington-nc/83390528007/)
Now, here's the part most people miss: Despite their fearsome reputation, snakes actually serve as nature's pest control specialists. They're incredibly effective at keeping rodent numbers in check, which means fewer crop losses for farmers and reduced risk of rodent-borne diseases spreading through communities. (https://www.starnewsonline.com/story/lifestyle/home-garden/2025/05/30/turtles-snakes-and-lizards-common-in-wilmington-nc/83620961007/)
These legless creatures thrive across every corner of the area. As it turns out, the Wilmington vicinity contains one particular body of water that ranks among North Carolina's most densely snake-populated aquatic environments, based on a recently compiled ranking.
So which local waterway takes the crown for highest snake concentration?
A newly released compilation from WorldAtlas identified the top five most snake-dense waters across North Carolina, and a river flowing near Wilmington secured its place on that exclusive list.
The Black River—a winding tributary stretching approximately 60 miles—eventually feeds into the Cape Fear River system. Its course meanders through portions of three counties: Sampson, Bladen, and Pender.
WorldAtlas describes how the Black River "cuts through many rich ecosystems," creating a biodiversity hotspot that supports countless species.
This characterization aligns perfectly with observations from The Nature Conservancy, an organization that actively safeguards more than 17,000 acres within the Black River Preserve.
What makes the Black River truly extraordinary are its ancient bald cypress trees—some ranking among the planet's oldest living organisms. Researchers have determined that one particular cypress standing in the Black River has survived for an astounding 2,624 years, earning it the distinction of being the most ancient tree anywhere in the eastern United States, from the Rocky Mountains to the Atlantic coast.
The Nature Conservancy highlights that these waters shelter "rare fish species such as the Santee chub and broadtail madtom and numerous rare mussels like the Cape Fear spike." The surrounding preserve also provides habitat for larger wildlife including bobcats, black bears, and playful river otters.
And yes, snakes definitely call the Black River and its banks home.
"While snakes are present throughout the state, bodies of water are major hotspots, providing hiding spots and abundant wildlife for food," WorldAtlas explained in their analysis. Their report places special emphasis on the cottonmouth, commonly referred to by its alternative name, the water moccasin.
The NC Wildlife Resource Commission identifies the cottonmouth as the most water-dependent snake species found anywhere in North America—it's truly in its element when submerged or near water.
Classified as a pit viper, cottonmouths typically measure between 3 and 4 feet in length, though exceptional specimens can reach an impressive 6 feet. When ranking the potency of venom among North Carolina's six venomous snake species, the cottonmouth places fourth.
"Thankfully, (cottonmouths) are easier to identify in the water as these snakes swim with a unique method in which their entire body floats above the surface," WorldAtlas noted—a distinctive swimming style that sets them apart from non-venomous water snakes that swim with only their heads visible.
Additional snake species, including the venomous copperhead, inhabit the wooded terrain that borders the Black River, according to WorldAtlas's findings.
What other North Carolina waters made the snake-heavy list?
Lake Waccamaw, situated in neighboring Columbus County just a short distance away, also earned recognition on the compilation.
Rounding out the top five were Lake Norman (the state's largest man-made lake), Jordan Lake (a popular recreation destination), and the scenic Cullasaja River in the western mountains.
But here's where it gets controversial: Should we really be labeling these waterways as "snake-filled" when these reptiles are simply living in their natural habitat and providing essential ecological services? Are we unfairly demonizing creatures that help maintain environmental balance? Some argue that highlighting snake populations creates unnecessary fear and could lead to harmful attitudes toward wildlife conservation. Others counter that public awareness about snake presence is crucial for safety.
What's your take—do you think articles like this help educate people about coexisting with wildlife, or do they just fuel unnecessary fear? Have you encountered snakes while enjoying North Carolina's waterways? Drop your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
Charlie Kingree is a reporting intern for the StarNews. He can be reached at ckingree@gannett.com.
