Georgia has a rich bio diversity of snakes, with 41 native species now documented, 6 of which are venomous. Snakes are a beneficial part of our ecosystem because they play a major role as rodent predators.
Common non-venomous snake species include:
Black Racer
Corn Snake
Eastern Garter
Eastern King
Milk Snake
Yellow Rat
Northern Water
Southern Ringneck
Black Rat
Brown Snake
Brown Snake vs Juvenile Copperhead
There are two types of venomous snakes in Georgia: the Crotalidae, or Pit Viper, and the Elapidae. Included in the family of Pit Vipers are: Diamondback Rattlesnake, Canebrake Rattlesnake, Pigmy Rattlesnake, Cottonmouth
, or Water Moccasin, and the Copperhead
. The elapidae family, or Cobra family, is represented in Georgia by the Coral Snake.
Above is a photo of a Cottonmouth or Water Moccasin. This venomous creature is located in a variety of wetland habitats including salt marshes, tidal creeks, and estuaries. Their pattern varies from snake to snake within the species, but they often have wide, dark bands, a black tail, and a white upper lip.The harmless Brown Water Snake is often mistaken for the venomous Cottonmouth. Snake problems in Atlanta? Go to our snake control page.
The Brown Snake is often confused for a juvenile Copperhead. The young Copperhead’s pattern however is identical to the adult’s pattern. Also if you notice the bright yellow tail of the young Copperhead, As the snake grows the yellow tail will disappear, typically when the snake reaches a foot in length. There are other identifying marks but this would require getting too close to a the snake.
Above is a photo of a Brown Snake. A very common snake in the greater Atlanta area and throughout Georgia. In fact, this snake does so well in urban areas its sometimes referred to as a “city snake”. These little guys are found under or inside leaves, pine straw, rocks, logs and other ground coverings where their food sources (worms, slugs, snails and other invertebrates) may hide. This snake is often mistaken as a juvenile copperhead, however a juvenile Copperhead looks almost identical to an adult Copperhead. A Brown snake’s pattern varies, no two look identical. Brown snakes are very docile, almost impossible to get one to bite, but it’s non-venomous.
Above is a photo of a Racer. This non-venomous creature is located in a variety of habitats including pine woods and abandoned fields. Racers feed on frogs, lizards, insects, birds, and rodents. Although the scientific name suggests racers are constrictors, they are not. Racers eat their food alive! Snake problems in Atlanta? Go to our snake control page.
Above is a photo of a Racer. This non-venomous creature is located in a variety of habitats including pine woods and abandoned fields. Racers feed on frogs, lizards, insects, birds, and rodents. Although the scientific name suggests racers are constrictors, they are not. Racers eat their food alive! Snake problems in Atlanta? Go to our snake control page.
Above is a photo of a Corn Snake. These creatures are accustom to woodland habitats including pine and hardwood areas. They feed on small mammals and birds. Like Rat snakes, Corn snakes are constrictors and can easily catch small rodents. Problems in Atlanta? Go to our snake control page.
Above is a photo of a Eastern Garter Snake. Eastern garter snakes are one of our most common snakes in Atlanta. Notice the black body with the yellow striping. They typically inhabit areas were there is water. They are active during the day and night. Eastern garter snakes are non-venomous. This snake feeds on lizards, rodents, amphibians, turtles, small fish, insects and birds. Snake problems in Atlanta? Go to our snake control page.
Above is a photo of an Eastern King Snake. Notice the black body and the “rings”. The rings may be white to yellow. This snake is found throughout the greater Atlanta area and is non-venomous. This snake feeds on venomous snakes, lizards, rodents and birds. Snake problems in Atlanta? Go to our snake control page.
Above is a photo of a Northern Water Snake. Northern Water snakes are one of our most common snakes in Atlanta. This snake is found throughout the greater Atlanta area in lakes, ponds, marshes, streams, rivers, and canals; just about anywhere there is water. Northern water snakes are non-venomous,but may act very aggressive if handled. Snake problems in Atlanta? Go to our snake control page.
Above is a photo of an Black Rat Snake. Notice the black body and the white underbelly. This snake is found throughout the greater Atlanta area and is non-venomous This snake feeds on rodents and birds. Snake problems in Georgia? Go to our snake control page.
Above is a photo of a Copperhead snake. Notice the brown body and the “hour-glass” or “saddle” patterns on its back. This snake is found throughout the greater Atlanta area (uncommon though) and is venomous. Adults may reach lengths of 2-3 feet. This snake feeds on mice, lizards, rodents, snakes, amphibians, insects, and birds. Snake problems in Georgia? Go to our snake control page.
Adult snakes vary in size from 6″ up to 8′ in length, depending on the species. Color varies widely from species to species from patterns, solid colors, bands, under belly colors and other markings.
How, When and Why They Become a Nuisance Pest
Snakes can become a nuisance in many different ways, and in different situations, due to the general fear most people have towards snakes. People are most likely to encounter snakes if their property provides good snake habitat. Like all animals, snakes are looking for a good place to hunt and live.
Damage They Cause
The only damage a snake can cause, besides poisonous bites, is just the general phobia most Atlanta residence have towards them.
Snake Removal & Snake Control in Atlanta, Georgia
Snakes inside homes and offices can create an intense fear for some people, these snake should not be harmed, and may be there because of an unknown rodent problem. Homes with snakes present should be checked for the presents of rodents. Once snakes are removed, entry point(s) should be located and sealed, as not to allow snakes and rodents to enter into the building.
A rat or mouse problem (if present) must also be addressed. It is recommended that non-venomous snakes outside, should be left alone. Venomous snakes can be removed and snake pleasing habitats can be modified, which will make your property less attractive to snakes. Examples:Brush and junk removal, Removal of wood and rock piles, ivy, reduce food (typically rodents) sources. In addition, a specially designed repellent can be applied that helps keep snakes out of the area.
