Georgia is home to over forty different snake species. Some of the snakes are venomous, such as copperheads and rattlers, and some of the snakes are non-venomous, like garter snakes and rat snakes. These snakes are frequently seen in the metro-Atlanta area, so it is important to know the difference between the harmful and harmless snakes. If they are venomous, not only are they disturbing, but they can be dangerous to your family and pets as well. Here Lookout Pest Control, formerly Any Pest Inc., discusses ways in which you can identity if a snake is venomous or not.
Copperhead – Head color varies from yellowish to coppery. Copperheads have very distinguishable hourglass shaped bands. Sometimes there are small spots between the bands. Please use caution if you come across one of these in your yard.
Pigmy Rattlesnake – These snakes are known for their mid-dorsal spots that range from black to reddish-brown. Pigmies are unique among the other rattlesnakes because of their small rattle that often is too little to even produce a noise.
Timber Rattlesnake – Their main body color may be yellow, tan, brown or gray. Dark markings appear in bands around the body; they’re rounded toward the head and become more v-shaped toward the tail. There’s often a brown stripe along the back. The tail is black and has a prominent rattle at the end. Be cautious if you come across one.
Cottommouth – Avoid at all costs! These semi-aquatic snakes are often found along rivers and lakes. Most are around 3 to 4 feet in length. They are characterized by dark bands running the length of their body over brown or olive backgrounds. They have light yellow underbellies and black undersides of their tail. You can see a dark band extending from their eye down the neck.
Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake – These snakes are generally identified by the trademark diamond patterns that are brown on the inside of the diamond and lighter coloring around the edges of the diamond. The surrounding colors are typically a combination of brown, tan and yellow. They also have a large diamond shaped head. Be very cautious around these snakes.
Eastern Coral Snake – These venomous snakes have red rings separated by narrow yellow rings. They have smooth scales and the anal plate is usually divided.
If you see snakes in or around your home, you should call pest control professionals as soon as possible. We will be able to identify whether or not the snake is venomous, the best way to remove the snake, and how to prevent snakes from entering your property in the future. There are many snake traps and deterrents, and while you could try to use these items yourself to trap the snake, it is best to call a professional. Not only will we have the right equipment, but we also have the expertise needed to trap snakes in a timely and efficient manner. This will be much more reassuring to you, especially if you have a fear of snakes.
At Lookout Pest Control we have been providing expert pest and wildlife control to Georgia residents for over three decades, and we have plenty of experience with snakes. You can trust us to provide you with the most efficient, and professional pest removal services in the metro-Atlanta area.
If you see a snake on your property, call Lookout Pest Control at 678-888-0035 or contact us online here.