Georgia’s diverse ecosystems, from the Appalachian Mountains to the coastal plains, provide habitat for a wide variety of snake species. While some are venomous and require caution, the majority are harmless and play crucial roles in the ecosystem. This guide will help you identify the most common snakes in Georgia, focusing on their appearance, behavior, and habitat.
1. Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake (Crotalus adamanteus)
Identification:
- Size: 3.5 to 6 feet (one of the largest venomous snakes in North America).
- Coloration: Dark diamond-shaped patterns on a yellowish-brown or grayish background.
- Distinctive Feature: Rattles at the end of the tail, which produce a loud buzzing sound when threatened.
Habitat: Primarily found in dry, sandy areas like pine forests and coastal plains.
Behavior: Venomous and highly venomous; avoids humans but will defend itself if cornered.
2. Timber Rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus)
Identification:
- Size: 3 to 5 feet.
- Coloration: Bands of black or dark brown on a yellowish-brown or grayish background.
- Distinctive Feature: A rattle at the end of the tail, though it may be silent if broken or worn down.
Habitat: Woodlands, rocky outcrops, and mountainous regions.
Behavior: Venomous but generally shy; prefers to retreat rather than strike.
3. Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix)
Identification:
- Size: 2 to 3 feet.
- Coloration: Light tan or pinkish body with distinctive hourglass-shaped bands.
- Distinctive Feature: Copper-colored head.
Habitat: Woodlands, swamps, and rocky areas.
Behavior: Venomous but mild compared to rattlesnakes; bites are rarely fatal to humans.
4. Eastern Coral Snake (Micrurus fulvius)
Identification:
- Size: 2 to 3 feet.
- Coloration: Bright red, yellow, and black bands in the order “red touches yellow, kills a fellow; red touches black, venom lack.”
- Distinctive Feature: Small, rounded snout and vibrant coloration.
Habitat: Pine forests and sandy soils in southern Georgia.
Behavior: Venomous but reclusive; bites are rare due to its small mouth and reluctance to strike.
5. Eastern Rat Snake (Pantherophis alleghaniensis)
Identification:
- Size: 3 to 6 feet.
- Coloration: Black or dark gray as adults, with white or gray bellies; juveniles have blotchy patterns.
- Distinctive Feature: Excellent climbers, often found in trees.
Habitat: Woodlands, farms, and suburban areas.
Behavior: Non-venomous; constricts prey like rats and birds.
6. Corn Snake (Pantherophis guttatus)
Identification:
- Size: 2 to 5 feet.
- Coloration: Orange or reddish body with large red blotches outlined in black.
- Distinctive Feature: Similar to copperheads but lacks the copper-colored head.
Habitat: Farmlands, woodlands, and suburban areas.
Behavior: Non-venomous; often kept as pets due to their docile nature.
7. Eastern Kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula)
Identification:
- Size: 3 to 4 feet.
- Coloration: Black body with white or yellow bands.
- Distinctive Feature: Immune to pit viper venom, often preying on venomous snakes.
Habitat: Woodlands, fields, and suburban areas.
Behavior: Non-venomous; known for its bold patterns and beneficial role in controlling pest populations.
8. Rough Green Snake (Opheodrys aestivus)
Identification:
- Size: 2 to 3 feet.
- Coloration: Bright green with a yellowish belly.
- Distinctive Feature: Slender body and smooth scales.
Habitat: Woodlands, meadows, and near water sources.
Behavior: Non-venomous; feeds on insects and is often seen in vegetation.
9. Eastern Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis)
Identification:
- Size: 1.5 to 2.5 feet.
- Coloration: Dark green or brown with three yellow or white stripes running down the body.
- Distinctive Feature: Common and adaptable to various environments.
Habitat: Wetlands, grasslands, and suburban areas.
Behavior: Non-venomous; preys on small amphibians and insects.
10. Scarlet Kingsnake (Lampropeltis elapsoides)
Identification:
- Size: 1.5 to 2 feet.
- Coloration: Red, black, and yellow or white bands.
- Distinctive Feature: Often confused with the venomous coral snake but is non-venomous.
Habitat: Pine forests and sandy soils.
Behavior: Non-venomous; mimics coral snakes for protection.
How can I tell the difference between a copperhead and a corn snake?
+Copperheads have a copper-colored head and hourglass-shaped bands, while corn snakes have reddish blotches outlined in black and lack the copper head.
Are all rattlesnakes in Georgia venomous?
+Yes, both the Eastern Diamondback and Timber Rattlesnakes are venomous and should be treated with caution.
What should I do if I encounter a snake in Georgia?
+Stay calm, keep a safe distance, and let the snake retreat. Do not attempt to handle or provoke it.
Which snake in Georgia is most likely to be found in suburban areas?
+The Eastern Rat Snake and Eastern Garter Snake are commonly found in suburban environments due to their adaptability.
How can I safely remove snakes from my property?
+Contact a professional wildlife removal service. Do not attempt to handle snakes yourself, especially if they are venomous.
