Georgia DNR’s warning to residents: Here’s what to do (and not do) if you see a snake.

Caption

Georgia has 47 different species of snakes, most of which, including this rat snake, are non-venomous.

Credit: John Jensen / Georgia DNR

There are 47 of them in Georgia.

Only seven of them are venomous.

However, you’ll most likely only encounter one common species while you’re out and about this spring.

That’s right, we are talking about snakes.

The copperhead lives and thrives in the suburban areas, where most Georgians live.

But the good news?

“While at least one of the state’s venomous snake species could be found in each county in the state, seldom are they the most common snakes encountered,” Daniel Sollenberger, senior wildlife biologist with DNR’s Wildlife Conservation Section said.

So, what should you do when you see a snake nearby? And better yet, what should you not do?

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) urges residents to use these tips when encountering a snake:

• You can try to identify it from a distance. Resources such as georgiawildlife.com/georgiasnakes, which includes DNR’s “Venomous Snakes of Georgia” brochure, can help.
• Remember that snakes are predators that feed on small mammals, amphibians, insects and even other snakes. There is no need to fear non-venomous snakes. Also, Georgia’s native non-venomous species are protected by state law, and one — the eastern indigo — is federally protected.
• If a clearly identified venomous snake is in an area where it represents a danger to people or pets, consult georgiawildlife.com/preventing-wildlife-conflicts for a list of private wildlife removal specialists. Most bites occur when a snake is cornered or captured and defending itself.

And what should you not do?

The Georgia DNR says to never attempt to handle the snake. Keep your distance and try not to alarm the snake or provoke it in any way.

Here’s how you can protect your home from snakes

To keep snakes away from your home, the DNR encourages residents to remove brush, log piles and other habitat features that attract mice, lizards and other animals that are prey for snakes.

Benefits of snakes

Snakes actually have several benefits in the wild. Some snakes eat vermin and rodents and others feed on slugs, snails or even centipedes, which are all creatures Georgians want to keep away from their homes and gardens. For more information about Georgia snakes, visit the Georgia DNR website.

This story comes to GPB through a reporting partnership with The Telegraph.