Did you know that in every square mile, there are an estimated 15 snakes lurking? People’s attitudes towards snakes exist on a broad spectrum. Some fearless individuals are excited when they cross paths with a snake while other folks may be more inclined to run or grab the nearest shovel. The reality of it is that snakes are an important part of the natural landscape and ecosystems of the Southeast- they provide excellent rodent and small mammal control but also eat insects, fish, amphibians, birds, and other snakes–and they serve as a food source for other wildlife species.
There are 38 snake species native to South Carolina, and 46 species here in Georgia- but of these, only six are venomous and pose a threat to humans. While it’s unlikely that most people will learn how to identify all 46 species, it is very important that you learn identifying factors of the 6 venomous ones. Our venomous species are the Copperhead, Cottonmouth, Eastern Coral Snake, Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake, Timber Rattlesnake, and Pigmy Rattlesnake. These snakes are regional and live in different parts of SC and GA– in our region, we are only likely to see Copperheads, Cottonmouths, Timber Rattlers, and Pigmy Rattlers.
Copperheads are medium-sized snakes that are usually less than 3ft in length, though their maximum length is closer to 4.5ft. They are usually light brown to gray but can be pinkish, orange, or almost black. They are most easily identified by the presence of 10-21 dark brown saddle shaped markings that stretch across the snakes back. Juvenile copperheads have a bright yellow tip on their tail. Copperheads prefer forested habitats around swamps and water sources and avoid open habitats like fields and lawns.
Cottonmouths, often called water moccasins, are typically around 3ft in length, but can reach to 6ft in the right conditions. They have brown or olive-colored scales with wide, dark colored bands across their backs. Cottonmouths do have a lot of color variation, with juvenile snakes being brighter in color while old, mature snakes will appear very dark and almost solid colored as their bands become obscured. This snake is semi-aquatic and prefers swampy, wetland habitats.
The Timber Rattlesnake typically ranges in 3-5 feet in length and has a range of colors from yellow, tan, grey, brown, and olive to black. These snakes usually have dark chevron bands across their back (between 15-34 of them) and a black tail and segmented rattle. Timber Rattlesnakes prefer heavily wooded areas, stream corridors, and small, isolated areas.
Last but not least, the Pigmy Rattlesnake. This is the smallest rattlesnake, typically between 1-2” long. They are usually grey or tan but can range in color. They have 22-45 dark splotches across their backs with lighter edges and one to three rows of splotches down their sides. They may have a reddish stripe down their back. These snakes usually have a rattle but it is possible for them not to. Pigmy Rattlesnakes are common in longleaf pine forests and seasonally flooded pine flats.
In addition to the specific coloration and markings noted above, venomous snakes also may be recognized by the presence of a more triangular head shape, pits in the head, rattles (on rattlesnakes) and elliptical pupils. However, non-venomous snakes may “fake” some venomous traits, such as “rattling” their tail at you, and some of those identifying traits are not accurate (venomous coral snakes have round pupils, not elliptical).
If you happen upon a snake, please keep your distance. Usually, the best first response is to take 3-4 steps backwards away from the snake- if the reptile feels threatened, it is likely to try to escape from you or defend itself. If the snake is in an area where it is unwanted or potentially harmful, a quick spray with a water hose can often encourage them to move along. The best way to prevent snakes is to keep areas around your home well mowed and clear of debris. If you’re hiking or in unmanaged areas, wear long pants and closed-toe shoes, and be aware of your surroundings. There are no scientifically proven snake repellents, and measures like sticky traps are inhumane and harmful to other animals as well. It is illegal in Georgia to kill nonvenomous snakes, and in South Carolina, it is illegal to kill any snake on public land regardless of whether it is venomous or not.
If you need help identifying a snake, be sure to take good pictures and submit them to your local Extension office at uge3181@uga.edu. More information on venomous and nonvenomous species can be found at GeorgiaWildlife.com/GeorgiaSnakes.
