Georgia’s diverse landscapes are home to many snake species, contributing to the state’s ecological balance. Understanding these reptiles, both venomous and non-venomous, helps foster coexistence and minimize potential encounters. This knowledge allows residents and visitors to navigate the outdoors safely and appreciate these creatures.
Understanding Georgia’s Snake Diversity
Georgia is home to 47 snake species, found across the state from its northern mountains to the Atlantic barrier islands. Its humid, subtropical climate and diverse ecosystems provide suitable habitats. Snakes serve as predators and prey, controlling rodent populations and acting as bioindicators.
Identifying Venomous Snakes
Georgia is home to six venomous snake species, all of which are pit vipers except for the Eastern Coral Snake. Pit vipers possess heat-sensing pits between their nostril and eye, and typically have triangular-shaped heads and vertical pupils. The six venomous species include the Copperhead, Cottonmouth, Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake, Timber Rattlesnake, Pygmy Rattlesnake, and Eastern Coral Snake.
The Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix) is recognized by its coppery-brown to reddish-brown coloration with dark, hourglass-shaped crossbands. Commonly found in forested and suburban areas.
The Cottonmouth (Agkistrodon piscivorus), also known as the water moccasin, is a heavy-bodied, semi-aquatic snake. Its color varies from olive to brown or black, often with broad, dark crossbands that may become obscure with age. When threatened, it displays the white interior of its mouth. Cottonmouths have a thick, blocky head distinctly wider than their neck.
The Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake (Crotalus adamanteus) is North America’s longest and heaviest venomous snake, identifiable by a series of dark brown diamonds edged in yellow running down its back. It has a wide, blocky head and a distinctive rattle at the end of its tail. Found in dry, sandy habitats.
The Timber Rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus) is a large, heavy-bodied snake with dark brown or black chevron-shaped crossbands on a lighter background, which can be yellowish-brown to gray. Its tail ends with a prominent rattle. Often inhabit heavily wooded areas and rocky hillsides.
The Pygmy Rattlesnake (Sistrurus miliarius) is a smaller pit viper, typically 16 to 21 inches long, with a series of dark spots down its back. Its rattle is very small and produces a faint buzzing sound that can be difficult to hear from a distance.
The Eastern Coral Snake (Micrurus fulvius) is unique among Georgia’s venomous snakes as it is an elapid, not a pit viper. It has a distinctive banding pattern of red, yellow, and black rings, where red and yellow bands touch. Its head is black from the snout to just behind the eyes, followed by a yellow band. This snake is slender with smooth scales.
Identifying Non-Venomous Snakes
The vast majority of snakes encountered in Georgia are non-venomous and harmless to humans. Many non-venomous species play beneficial roles, such as controlling rodent populations. While some non-venomous snakes may flatten their heads when threatened, mimicking the triangular shape of venomous pit vipers, they lack heat-sensing pits and have round pupils.
Black Racers (Coluber constrictor) are slender, fast-moving snakes, uniformly black as adults with smooth scales. Common across Georgia, they are frequently seen in backyards and open areas.
Garter Snakes (Thamnophis sirtalis) are medium-sized with diverse patterns, often featuring three light stripes running lengthwise down their bodies. Commonly found in gardens and grassy areas.
Kingsnakes, such as the Eastern Kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula), are known for their ability to prey on other snakes, including venomous ones. They typically have glossy black scales with white or yellow chain-like bands across their bodies. Kingsnakes are constrictors and are widespread throughout Georgia.
Corn Snakes (Pantherophis guttatus) are slender snakes with vibrant orange, reddish-brown, or brown blotches outlined in black, set against a lighter orange or tan background. Often found in wooded and suburban settings, frequently near human dwellings.
Water Snakes (genus Nerodia) are often confused with venomous cottonmouths due to their similar aquatic habits and sometimes heavy bodies. However, water snakes have round pupils and their heads are not distinctly wider than their necks. Their coloration varies, often with bands or blotches, and they are found near water sources.
Where Snakes Live and What to Do
Snakes in Georgia inhabit a variety of environments. Commonly found in forests, wetlands, and suburban backyards. Areas with abundant cover, such as leaf litter, logs, rocks, and dense vegetation, provide ideal shelter and hunting grounds. Water sources like streams, swamps, ponds, and lakes attract many snake species, both aquatic and terrestrial.
If a snake is encountered, maintain distance and leave it undisturbed. Snakes are not aggressive and typically bite only when threatened, such as when cornered or handled. Attempting to handle or kill a snake increases the risk of a bite. If a venomous snake poses a direct danger, contact a private wildlife removal specialist. Removing brush piles, firewood stacks, and controlling rodent populations around homes can help deter snakes from taking refuge in residential areas.