Pygmy Rattlesnake

Pygmy rattlesnakes are small, thick-bodied snakes typically under two feet long. They are gray or tan with dark blotches down the back and a reddish-brown stripe along the spine. The most distinctive feature is their tiny rattle, which sounds more like a buzzing insect than a typical rattlesnake.

Pygmy rattlesnakes are not typically found infesting homes, but they may be present in yards or under structures. Look for snakeskin sheds or observe snakes basking in sunny areas near wood piles, shrubs, or other potential hiding spots. Small rodent populations can also attract them to your property in Myrtle Beach.

MBPC does not directly remove or relocate snakes. If you encounter a pygmy rattlesnake on your property, maintain a safe distance and contact local animal control or the SC Department of Natural Resources. Prevention is key, focusing on habitat modification to make your Grand Strand property less attractive to snakes and their prey.

Remove potential snake harborage areas such as wood piles, debris, and overgrown vegetation from your yard. Keep grass mowed short and trim shrubs away from the foundation of your home. Control rodent populations, as they are a primary food source for pygmy rattlesnakes in the Myrtle Beach area.

Pygmy rattlesnakes are found in a variety of habitats across the Southeast, including the coastal plain of South Carolina. They prefer areas with sandy soils, pine flatwoods, and palmetto thickets. Around Myrtle Beach, they can be found near marshes, wooded areas, and residential properties with suitable cover.

Peak activity: Spring-Fall