With spring in full swing, if you’re outdoors in Georgia, you may see a snake. One or more.
For some people, that’s exciting. For others, it’s unnerving.
No matter the group, here’s helpful advice from DNR state herpetologist Daniel Sollenberger for those encounters.
Don’t try to handle it. Give snakes the space they need.
- Want to identify a snake? Do it from a distance. (Learn more at georgiawildlife.com/georgiasnakes.)
- Respect the reptile. All snakes fill important roles in nature, from eating rats, snails and slugs to serving as prey for species varying from hawks to other snakes.
- Only seven of Georgia’s 47 native snake species are venomous. All nonvenomous snakes are protected by law. Venomous snakes are protected on most public lands.
- For a venomous snake in an area where it represents a danger to people or pets, contact a licensed wildlife specialist. Many bites occur when a snake is cornered or captured and defending itself.
Remember, if you see a snake a) odds are it’s not venomous and is protected by law, and b) there’s no doubt it wants nothing to do with you. Let it be.
“Adult snakes you see have been living alongside you in your area for years and just got unlucky and were spotted that day,” Sollenberger said. “Any snake you have the opportunity to see, you also have the opportunity to walk away from.”
Wade Sellers
As someone who’s had my fair share of “snake encounters” while gardening, I can’t help but laugh at my previous reactions (queue embarrassing shriek). This article is a much-needed reminder that we’re the intruders in their habitat. I’ve learned to appreciate these misunderstood creatures from a respectful distance. My neighbor still thinks every garden snake is plotting world domination, though. Maybe I’ll casually email him this link… for educational purposes, of course!
iptv-strong8k
Very informative article. You explained the topic clearly and in a simple way. Keep up the good work!
iptv-strong8k
Awesome content! I appreciate the effort you put into writing this.
iptv-strong8k
Nice post. I will definitely come back to read more articles from your blog.