Snakes

When I lived in Kentucky, we had three types of poisonous snakes.  When I moved to Georgia, I got to double that number.  Out of the approximately 43 types of snakes in Georgia, there are six types of poisonous snakes.  By being outdoors, you will encounter snakes from time to time.  It is important to be prepared and cautious when outdoors in Georgia.  Rarely does the state get cold enough for the snakes to hibernate so you risk encountering them throughout the year.  We do not encourage or condone people killing snakes.  Snakes are an important part of our ecosystem.  Here are our tips to avoiding a snake situation.

• Wear snake boots when you are in areas that are known for snakes.
• When walking, step carefully.  Snakes like areas around rocks or logs, especially on the sunny side.
• Warm afternoons will have the snakes more active than the cool mornings.
• If bitten, don’t panic.  Odds are good that it wasn’t poisonous, but seek medical attention immediately.
• Remember that you don’t have to be hunting, fishing, hiking, or camping to encounter a snake.  They are around your home and catch you when your guard is down.

Even though most of the people I know are not fans of snakes, the snakes are important to the outdoors and help control the balance of our ecosystem.  Respect them and as with every trip to the woods or water, go prepared.  The dirtroad sometimes encounters challenges, but it is always worth traveling.