So You Think You Know Georgia? How Many Slithery Suckerpunchers Call This State Home?
Ah, Georgia. The Peach State. Land of peanuts, pecan pie, and...snakes? That's right, Georgia boasts a surprising number of these legless wonders slithering around its mountains, forests, and swamps. But just how many are we talking about? Buckle up, because we're about to get schooled on Georgia's scaly residents.
It's a Sssssnake Frenzy! 47 Species and Counting!
That's right, folks. Georgia is home to a whopping 47 species of snakes. That's more than your average grocery store has different types of apples (and probably tastier, depending on your preferences). From the tiny, earthworm-munching brown snake to the majestic Eastern Indigo, Georgia's got a snake for (almost) every occasion.
But wait, there's more! Did you know Georgia holds the crown (or should we say, the shed snakeskin?) for the most snake species per square mile in the entire U.S.A.? That's right, folks. Georgia's the undisputed king (or queen, because snakes don't have genders) of the American snake scene.
Don't Panic! Most Are Just Shy Slinky Bois
Now, we know what you're thinking: "47 types of snakes? That's enough to make my skin crawl!" But fear not, ophidiophobes (that's the fancy word for people scared of snakes). Out of those 47 species, only 7 are venomous. The rest are just shy, reclusive creatures content with munching on rodents and keeping the bug population in check. In fact, many of Georgia's non-venomous snakes are quite beautiful, with vibrant colors and interesting patterns.
So, the next time you're out exploring Georgia's beautiful landscapes, keep your eyes peeled (but not too peeled, you know, safety first). You might just spot a slithering friend!
How to Live Your Best Snake-Adjacent Life in Georgia:
FAQ
How to Identify a Venomous Snake: While we can't give a full course here, remember the saying: "Red touch yellow, kill a fellow. Red touch black, venom lack." This refers to the cottonmouth and coral snake, Georgia's two most dangerous venomous snakes. But always exercise caution and consult a professional if unsure.
How to Avoid Snakes: The best way to avoid snakes is to stay on trails and avoid tall grass or overgrown areas. Snakes are more afraid of you than you are of them, and will usually slither away if they sense you coming.
How to Remove a Snake from Your Property: If you find a snake in your house (yikes!), the safest option is to call animal control. They have the expertise and equipment to handle the situation safely.
How to Respect Snakes: Snakes are an important part of Georgia's ecosystem. They help control rodent populations and keep the environment balanced. So, if you see a snake, admire it from a safe distance and let it be on its way.
How to Learn More About Georgia's Snakes: The Georgia Wildlife Resources Division has a wealth of information on their website about the state's snake species. Check it out to become a snake expert (or at least impress your friends with your newfound knowledge)!
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