Georgia is home to a diverse snake population, with approximately 46 native species inhabiting the state’s varied ecosystems. Encountering a snake is a common experience for residents and visitors, and most of these reptiles are harmless components of the natural environment. Understanding the types of snakes present, particularly how to differentiate between the few venomous species and the many non-venomous ones, is important for safety and conservation.
Identifying the Venomous Species
Georgia is home to six species of venomous snakes. Five are pit vipers—rattlesnakes, the Copperhead, and the Cottonmouth—which typically share physical traits like a triangular head, thick body, and heat-sensing pits located between the eye and nostril.
Copperheads are medium-sized snakes with tan or light brown scales marked by dark brown or reddish-brown hourglass-shaped crossbands. The Cottonmouth, also known as the Water Moccasin, is a heavy-bodied snake often found in or near water. It is characterized by dark bands on a lighter background, though older individuals may appear almost entirely black.
Rattlesnakes are identified by the segmented rattle at the end of their tails, which they use as a warning sign. The Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake is the largest of these, possessing a distinctive pattern of dark diamonds bordered by lighter scales. The Timber Rattlesnake (Canebrake Rattlesnake) has a velvet-black tail and a body color ranging from yellowish to brown with dark, often V-shaped, crossbands. The Pigmy Rattlesnake is the smallest, rarely exceeding two feet in length, and has a tiny rattle that often sounds more like a buzzing insect.
The Eastern Coral Snake is the only venomous species that is not a pit viper. It is slender with a small, rounded head and features bright, contrasting bands of red, yellow, and black. The helpful rhyme for this snake is “red touches yellow,” which distinguishes it from non-venomous look-alikes where the red bands touch the black ones.
The Diverse Non-Venomous Population
Over 40 non-venomous species of snakes are found in Georgia, posing no threat to humans. Among the most commonly encountered are Rat Snakes, such as the Eastern Rat Snake, which can grow quite long and are often found in suburban environments. These constrictors are excellent climbers and primarily feed on rodents, contributing to pest control. Corn Snakes, a type of rat snake, are often misidentified as Copperheads due to their similar orange, red, and brown blotches.
King Snakes, including the Eastern Kingsnake, are notable for their ability to consume other snakes, including venomous pit vipers, as they possess a natural resistance to the venom. They are typically black with white or yellowish chain-like bands. Garter Snakes are easily recognizable by the three light-colored stripes—one down the center and one on each side—that run the length of their dark bodies.
Water Snakes, such as the Banded Water Snake, are frequently mistaken for the venomous Cottonmouth due to their shared preference for aquatic habitats. Water snakes have a more slender body and often swim submerged, unlike the Cottonmouth, which tends to float. The Black Racer is a common backyard resident, a sleek, fast-moving snake that is uniformly black as an adult and retreats quickly when disturbed. These non-venomous species are an important part of the state’s ecosystem, controlling populations of rodents, insects, and other small animals.
Regional Distribution and Habitats
Snake distribution across Georgia is closely tied to the state’s distinct ecological zones. The mountainous regions of North Georgia, part of the Appalachian Plateau, are typical habitats for the Timber Rattlesnake, especially on rocky wooded hillsides. The central Piedmont region is a transitional zone where species from both the mountains and the coast can be found. Copperheads, which are adaptable to development, are present throughout the Piedmont and are often the most frequently encountered venomous species in suburban areas.
The southern and eastern portions of the state are dominated by the Coastal Plain, characterized by sandy soils, swamps, and pine flatwoods. This region is the primary habitat for the Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake, which favors dry, open pine forests and coastal scrub. The Cottonmouth is widespread across the Coastal Plain, thriving in rivers, swamps, and slow-moving bodies of water. The Eastern Coral Snake is predominantly found in the sandy habitats of the lower Coastal Plain, often spending time burrowed underground.
Safe Interaction and Encounter Protocols
Encountering a snake requires cautious behavior to ensure safety. Upon seeing any snake, maintain distance and never attempt to handle, capture, or provoke it. Most bites occur when a person engages with the animal, causing the snake to act defensively.
If a snake is encountered on a path, remain still and allow it to move away, or slowly back away from the area. Simple property maintenance can reduce the likelihood of close encounters near a home. Removing piles of brush, logs, or debris eliminates potential hiding spots for snakes and their prey, making the area less attractive. Wearing thick, closed-toe shoes or boots when walking in wooded or overgrown areas provides a simple layer of protection.
In the event of a bite, remain calm and immediately call emergency services. Keep the bitten limb immobilized below heart level while waiting for medical attention.