Reptile & Amphibian Forums

has anyone been there? If so, is there any chance of seeing any hot snakes? I'll be in Nags Head for a week or so next week, so I figured I'd hit the preserve and Hyde county to (hopefully) see some herps. Any suggestions or comments about the area would be much appreciated.

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Been there ... done that ... but it's been a while. Here's the latest scoop on Hyde Co. based on what I've experienced and heard ...

Everyone pretty much already knows where to go around there, but do not, under any circumstances, get caught with a bag or box containing a Coral Snake or an Eastern Diamondback, Carolina Pigmy, or Canebrake rattlesnake by the F&G guys. They WILL now give you a ride downtown and ticket you, and if you're an NC resident they will take a peek in your house to see what might be lying around. If you have a LOTTA stuff they will try to get you on the 'Trafficking in Endangered' thingee which is a Federal offense. I don't know the exact criteria, but they are getting serious about this in NC, as many here can attest.

But ... if you're just pokin' around and not keeping anything ... WELCOME! ... have a blast, and please take your trash out with you when you leave.

Thanks,

Phil in NC

I've been told Nags Head Woods is a great place for seeing cottonmouths.

How strict are they on collecting non protected herps such as copperheads, glass lizards & treefrogs? TIA

It's been my experience that anything not on 'The List' is no biggie. Most herpers I've known are responsible about the numbers collected, so most local guys aren't grumbling either.

Have fun!

Phil

Hey there. I've been looking for a good place to go herp hunting ever since I was stationed at Ft Bragg. Can anyone give me some details about the area? Or some other good "hot" spots?

Thanks!