Identifying Venomous Snakes in Georgia

May 31, 2024 | Wildlife

Living in the beautiful state of Georgia comes with its fair share of wildlife encounters, and one of the most feared encounters for many homeowners is stumbling upon a venomous snake. With over 40 species of snakes slithering through the Georgia landscape, it’s essential to know how to distinguish between harmless serpents and those that pose a threat. In this guide, we’ll explore common venomous snakes in Georgia, their identifying features, where they can be found, associated risks, and what to do if you encounter one. Additionally, we’ll provide tips on how to deter venomous snakes from entering your yard, ensuring a safer environment for you and your family.

Common Venomous Snakes in Georgia

1. Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake (Crotalus adamanteus)
   • Identifying Features: Known for its distinctive diamond-shaped patterns along its back, this snake’s coloration ranges from gray to brown with dark brown or black diamonds outlined in white.
   • Habitat: Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnakes prefer pine forests, coastal scrub habitats, and sandy areas.
   • Risks: Their potent venom can be fatal if not treated promptly. They are known to be aggressive when threatened.
2. Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix)
   • Identifying Features: Copperheads have copper-colored heads and hourglass-shaped patterns along their bodies. They often blend well with their surroundings.
   • Habitat: Copperheads are commonly found in wooded areas, rocky hillsides, and suburban neighborhoods.
   • Risks: While their venom is less potent than other venomous snakes, a bite can still result in severe pain, swelling, and tissue damage.
3. Eastern Coral Snake (Micrurus fulvius)
   • Identifying Features: Recognizable by their brightly colored bands of red, yellow, and black, coral snakes have a distinct pattern: red touches yellow, kill a fellow; red touches black, venom lack.
   • Habitat: They inhabit pine flatwoods, hardwood forests, and coastal plains.
   • Risks: Coral snakes possess potent neurotoxic venom, although they are not aggressive and rarely bite humans.

What to Do If You Encounter a Venomous Snake

If you come across a venomous snake on your property or while out in nature, it’s crucial to remain calm and follow these steps:

1. Give the Snake Space: Back away slowly to give the snake an escape route. Most snake bites occur when people try to handle or kill the snake.
2. Do Not Provoke or Agitate: Venomous snakes will typically only strike if they feel threatened. Avoid sudden movements or loud noises that may startle the snake.
3. Seek Medical Attention: If you or someone else is bitten by a venomous snake, seek medical attention immediately. Do not attempt to treat the bite yourself.
4. Note the Snake’s Appearance: If it’s safe to do so, try to remember the snake’s color, pattern, and size. This information can help medical professionals determine the appropriate treatment.

Deterring Venomous Snakes from Your Yard

Prevention is key when it comes to keeping venomous snakes away from your property. Here are some tips to deter them:

1. Keep Your Yard Tidy: Remove clutter, such as piles of wood, debris, and tall grass, where snakes may hide.
2. Seal Entry Points: Seal any gaps or holes in your home’s foundation, walls, and around doors and windows to prevent snakes from entering.
3. Trim Vegetation: Keep shrubs, bushes, and grass trimmed short to reduce hiding spots for snakes.
4. Use Snake Repellents: Consider using snake repellents or natural deterrents like mothballs or essential oils around the perimeter of your property.
5. Consult a Wildlife Control Company: If you have a persistent snake problem, consider hiring a professional wildlife control company. They can safely remove snakes from your property and implement preventive measures to keep them from returning.

By familiarizing yourself with the common venomous snakes in Georgia and taking proactive measures to deter them from your property, you can minimize the risk of encountering these potentially dangerous reptiles. Remember, when it comes to venomous snakes, caution and prevention are your best defenses.

If you encounter a venomous snake on your property and need assistance with snake relocation or wildlife control, don’t hesitate to contact a reputable wildlife control company in your area. Stay safe and informed, and enjoy the beauty of Georgia’s wildlife responsibly.