Warmer weather means more time outdoors, which also means more chances to encounter snakes. Most snakes you’ll see are harmless and prefer to avoid people. But some species are venomous, and a bite can become a medical emergency.

Key identification features:

• Head shape: Venomous snakes usually have broad, triangular or spade-shaped heads (due to venom glands), while non-venomous snakes tend to have narrower, more rounded heads.
• Eyes/pupils: Venomous snakes typically have vertical, elliptical pupils (slit-like), while most non-venomous snakes have round pupils. (Note: Coral snakes have round pupils but are highly venomous).
• Pits: Pit vipers (rattlesnakes, copperheads, cottonmouths) have distinct heat-sensing pits situated between the eye and the nostril. Non-venomous snakes do not have heat-sensing pits.
• Underside tail scales: On the underside of the tail, venomous snakes often have a single row of scales, whereas non-venomous snakes usually have a double row (zipper-like).
• Body structure: Venomous snakes often look "stouter" or "fat," while non-venomous snakes are frequently more slender, though this is not always reliable.

Knowing which snakes live in Georgia and Alabama and what to do after a snake bite can make a big difference in how quickly someone receives care.

Common non-venomous snakes

• Non-venomous snakes found in the area could include:
• Eastern rat snakes – large black snake, often found climbing trees or around homes
• Eastern garter snakes – small striped snake commonly seen in yards and gardens
• Dekay’s brown snakes – tiny brown snake with spots, often under rocks or mulch
• Eastern king snakes – black snake with white chain-like bands; eats other snakes
• Corn snakes – orange/red snake with blotches, often mistaken for copperheads

Common venomous snakes

Georgia is home to several venomous snake species. While bites are rare (.0041% chance), it’s important to recognize the types you may encounter.

Venomous snakes found in the area could include:

• Copperheads - tan snake with hourglass-shaped bands
• Cottonmouths (also called water moccasins) – a thick, dark, water snake
• Timber rattlesnakes – large snake with dark chevron bands and a black tail
• Eastern diamondback rattlesnakes – large rattlesnake with a diamond pattern down its back
• Pygmy rattlesnakes – small gray rattlesnake with dark spots and a tiny rattler

Get to know the snakes found throughout Georgia and Alabama, and learn to identify venomous and non-venomous species — so you can stay informed and confident outdoors:

• Georgia - https://georgiawildlife.com/georgiasnakes
• Alabama - https://www.outdooralabama.com/reptiles/snakes

When and where you’re most likely to see snakes

The good news is that most snake bites happen when someone accidentally steps near a snake or tries to handle it. Giving snakes plenty of space is one of the best ways to stay safe.

Signs of a dangerous bite

Not every snake bite injects venom, but it’s safest to treat any bite as potentially serious until medical professionals can evaluate it.

Signs that a bite may be dangerous include:

• Severe pain around the bite
• Rapid swelling or bruising
• Two visible puncture marks
• Nausea or vomiting
• Difficulty breathing
• Weakness or dizziness

Symptoms can appear quickly or develop over time. If someone is bitten by a snake and you’re unsure whether it’s venomous, it’s best to seek emergency medical care.

What TO do

If a snake bite happens, staying calm and getting help quickly is the most important step.

Here’s what you should do:

• Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.
• Keep the person as still and calm as possible.
• Position the bite area at or slightly below heart level.
• Remove tight clothing or jewelry near the bite.
• Try to remember what the snake looked like from a safe distance.

Medical professionals can monitor the patient, manage symptoms and ensure they receive the care needed for safe treatment.

What NOT to do

Movies and outdated advice have created many myths about snake bites. Some of those actions can actually make the injury worse.

Avoid these common mistakes:

• Do not cut the bite or try to suck out the venom.
• Do not apply ice.
• Do not use a tourniquet.
• Do not attempt to catch or kill the snake.
• Do not give alcohol or caffeine.

These actions can damage tissue, restrict blood flow or delay proper treatment.

After a snake bite, getting medical care as quickly as possible is critical. Whether you call 911 or have someone drive you to the nearest emergency room, the goal is to get evaluated and treated without delay.

Calling 911 can be especially helpful if symptoms are severe or worsening, as emergency medical teams can begin care immediately and watch for signs of serious reactions during transport to the hospital.

EMS professionals can:

• Monitor breathing and heart function
• Provide oxygen if needed
• Manage pain and swelling
• Alert the hospital so antivenom and medical staff are ready

With venomous bites, quick treatment can help prevent serious complications. Getting professional medical care as soon as possible gives patients the best chance for a safe recovery.

Spring and summer are great times to explore the outdoors of Georgia and Alabama. By staying aware of your surroundings, giving wildlife space and knowing what to do in an emergency, you can help keep every adventure a safe one.

If a snake bite occurs, call 911 right away or go to the nearest emergency room for immediate care. Prompt treatment is critical for the best outcome.