Corn Snake The corn snake is among the most common nonvenomous snake species mistaken for the copperhead, according to Clemson Cooperative Extension.

Corn snakes (Pantherophis guttatus) have similar scale patterns, though the corn snake’s scales are red or orange and tan.

Copperheads are the only venomous snake you’re likely to encounter in the Triangle and central NC. Here’s how to identify and avoid them.

What does a northern copperhead snake look like? According to an excerpt from the "Field Guide to Reptiles and Amphibians of New Jersey," the northern copperhead snake can be 22-53 inches long.

Copperheads are the only venomous snake you’re likely to encounter in the Triangle and central NC. Here’s how to identify and avoid them.