Georgia is home to a diverse range of snake species, and several are commonly referred to as "brown snakes." This can lead to confusion, as the term doesn't refer to a single species. This guide will help you understand the brown snakes you might encounter in Georgia, how to identify them, and what to do if you see one. Accurate identification is crucial for safety, as some brown snakes are venomous while others are harmless.
What Kinds of Brown Snakes Live in Georgia?
Several snake species in Georgia exhibit brown coloration, making identification challenging. Some of the most commonly encountered "brown snakes" include:
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Eastern Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix): This venomous pit viper is often confused with harmless snakes due to its variable coloration. It typically has a reddish-brown or copper-colored body with darker crossbands. Its triangular head is a key identifying feature.
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Brown Snake (Storeria dekayi): This small, harmless snake is uniformly brown or grayish-brown with a very slender body. It's often overlooked due to its size and shy nature.
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Southern Black Racer (Coluber constrictor priapus): While often black, juveniles can be brown and can sometimes retain brown coloration on their flanks even as adults. They are fast-moving, non-venomous snakes.
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Various other species: Other snakes like the Corn Snake (Pantherophis guttatus), depending on their coloration, may also appear brown.
How to Identify Brown Snakes in Georgia
Identifying snakes accurately requires careful observation of several key features:
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Head Shape: A triangular head often indicates a venomous pit viper (like the copperhead). A more rounded head usually suggests a non-venomous snake.
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Body Pattern: Note the presence and pattern of bands, blotches, or stripes. Copperheads have distinctive hourglass-shaped markings.
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Size and Body Shape: Size and body shape can provide clues. The Brown Snake is very slender, while the Southern Black Racer is longer and more slender than a Copperhead.
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Location: Knowing where you saw the snake can help narrow down possibilities. Certain species prefer specific habitats.
Never try to handle a snake you cannot confidently identify. If you are unsure, maintain a safe distance and contact a wildlife expert or herpetologist for assistance.
What to Do If You See a Brown Snake
- Observe from a safe distance: Do not approach or attempt to handle the snake. Use binoculars if you need a closer look.
- Identify the snake (if possible): Use a field guide or online resources (with caution—rely on multiple reputable sources).
- Leave the snake alone: Snakes play a vital role in the ecosystem and generally prefer to avoid humans.
- Educate children: Teach children to admire snakes from afar and never to handle them.
- Seek professional help if bitten: If bitten by a venomous snake, seek immediate medical attention.
Is a Brown Snake Dangerous?
Whether a brown snake is dangerous depends entirely on the species. The Eastern Copperhead is venomous and its bite requires immediate medical attention. The Brown Snake and Southern Black Racer are non-venomous and pose no significant threat to humans.
What Eats Brown Snakes in Georgia?
The diet of predators varies depending on the size and species of the brown snake. Common predators for snakes in Georgia include hawks, owls, larger snakes, and even some mammals like raccoons and foxes.
What is the Most Common Brown Snake in Georgia?
It's difficult to definitively say which brown snake is "most common" as that varies by region and habitat. However, the Brown Snake (Storeria dekayi) is widespread and likely encountered frequently, though often overlooked due to its small size and secretive behavior. The Eastern Copperhead is also relatively common in appropriate habitats.
This information is for educational purposes only. For definitive snake identification, consult a qualified herpetologist or wildlife expert. Always prioritize safety when encountering snakes in the wild.
