A major reason many Atlanta residents fear snakes is that some are venomous. Of the more than 50 species in Georgia only 6 species are venomous. Georgia’s venomous species are Eastern Coral Snake, Copperhead , Cottonmouth , or Water Moccasin, Pygmy Rattlesnake, Timber Rattlesnake, and Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake.
Snakes feed on a wide variety of small creatures and are very particular about what they eat. Some Atlanta species eat only rodents and birds. Others may eat only amphibians. Large land-dwelling snakes are likely to feed on rodents, lizards, other snakes, toads and frogs. Aquatic snakes may feed on fish and amphibians. Many of the creatures snakes eat are considered pests, for this reason non-venomous snakes should not be destroyed and can be a great asset.
What attracts snakes to dwellings?
If the house is surrounded by natural countryside with rock piles, streams and swamps nearby, snakes will appear from time to time. If sufficient food and shelter exist on the property a snake may decide to stay on the property.
Far too often a homeowner fails to realize exactly what it is about their home or property that is inviting to snakes or their prey. A well trained eye can spot these inviting situations and can determine proactive measures to correct most situations.
If poisonous Georgia snakes are common to your area there are some steps that can be taken to discourage them from coming onto your property.
Plants and bushes that are close to a homes foundation can attract snakes, and they should be cautiously removed. there are also special repellents or products that Urban Wildlife Control can apply to help deter snakes and rodents.
How do I keep snakes out of my home?
The first step is to ensure that there are no openings in your greater Atlanta home or other structure where snakes and rodents can enter. Since Georgia snakes, mice and rats can get through very small holes (about the size of a quarter), a professional detailed inspection may be necessary. For additional information, feel free to contact our office, 678-493-7194.
Some people use Mothballs beside their plants or in household areas to keep snakes away. This is not only a bad idea but also dangerous for kids at home. Rather than using mothballs to keep snakes away, look at the surroundings as if you were a snake. Are there rodents or other sources of food? Are there places for these animals to hide? If the answers are “yes,” Urban Wildlife Control can help plan a program to remove food and cover.
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.
These practices will reduce but not eliminate the possibility of finding snakes. Remember, it is best to remove items that a snake would find attractive. If you can not identify the species of snake DO NOT try to handle them, Contact a professional snake removal company such as Urban Wildlife Control.
Learn More about snake removal