All guests, including members, will need to either reserve a time or purchase a timed entry ticket prior to visiting the North Carolina Zoo. Please take the time to review our reimagined guest experience and protocols before buying tickets to the North Carolina Zoo. (Spanish)
By marking snakes encountered on the North Carolina Zoo’s grounds, Zoo staff are learning valuable information about the status of our local snake population. In addition, snake research on site creates unique opportunities to teach visitors about the importance of these misunderstood but critical predators. Snakes are also tested for a fungal disease that is affecting an increasing number of wild snakes in North Carolina. You can read more about the Zoo’s work on wild snakes below, under related resources.
When most ambush predators like copperheads move, it’s to find hiding spots or areas to raise their body temperature. Several spots within the habitat allow the snake to feel hidden or to warm up and regulate its body temperature.
Zookeepers use opportunities to study wild snakes encountered on the Zoo grounds to teach visitors about their importance in the ecosystem.