Slithering Through Georgia: Getting to Know the State’s Snakes

As a Georgia resident you’re probably no stranger to snakes. Georgia is home to a diverse array of serpents both venomous and non-venomous. Learning to identify the different species can help you safely coexist with these fascinating reptiles.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the most common snakes found in the Peach State. Whether you encounter them in your backyard or on a hiking trail, this guide will help you tell a black racer from a copperhead. Let’s slither in!

Venomous Georgia Snakes – Tread Lightly!

First things first – you’ll want to familiarize yourself with Georgia’s venomous snake species. Being able to identify these serpents can literally save your life! Here are the main venomous snakes to watch out for:

Copperheads

With their distinctive hourglass-shaped bands down the length of their tan bodies, copperheads are likely Georgia’s most recognizable venomous snake. These pit vipers frequent wooded areas and can blend right into leaf litter. Give them space if you spot one!

Cottonmouths

Also called water moccasins, cottonmouths inhabit Georgia’s wetlands and waterways.Identify them by their broad, triangular heads and the white lining of their mouth (which they display when threatened). Their venom packs a powerful punch.

Rattlesnakes

Georgia has three rattlesnake species – the eastern diamondback pygmy and timber rattler. Listen for their trademark warning rattle before treading through brush piles or fallen logs where they may hide.

Coral Snakes

The vibrant red, yellow and black banding of coral snakes makes them easy to identify. Luckily they are reclusive and unlikely to bite. Their neurotoxic venom is highly potent however, so give any you see a very wide berth.

Get to Know Georgia’s Non-Venomous Snakes

While Georgia’s venomous snakes get most of the attention, the majority of the state’s snakes lack any venom at all. Familiarize yourself with these harmless and beneficial serpents:

Rat Snakes

Several rat snake species inhabit Georgia, feasting on rodents in woodlands as well as barns. Despite their size, they are non-venomous and typically docile. Distinctive features include their slim build, keeled scales, and blotched pattern in younger snakes.

Kingsnakes

Kingsnakes come in a rainbow of colors like reds, blacks, and yellows. Look for their smooth and glossy scales. Kingsnakes are accomplished reptile eaters, meaning they help control venomous snake populations. Kingsnakes are immune to other snakes’ venom themselves.

Water Snakes

Georgia is home to several water snake species that inhabit lakes, rivers, and streams. They vary in color but most have bold bands or blotches. Water snakes often bask on branches overhanging water. Though they rarely bite, they may strike if threatened or handled.

Garter & Ribbon Snakes

Common in moist habitats statewide, garter snakes and ribbon snakes have three stripes running the length of their bodies. They are small, thin snakes that feed on amphibians, earthworms, slugs and other small prey.

When You Encounter A Snake

If you come across a snake in the wild, the best practice is to simply observe it from a safe distance. Never try to touch or kill the animal.

If the snake is located somewhere it could be a hazard, like inside a home, contact wildlife control to have it safely removed.

By learning to identify Georgia’s snake species, we can appreciate these unique reptiles and coexist with them responsibly. Snakes play important roles controlling pests and as both predator and prey in our state’s ecosystems.

Next time you see a snake slither by, take a moment to admire its scales and movements. With increased understanding, we can overcome our fears and foster compassion for Georgia’s diverse snake populations.