How to stay safe, what to know about these 3 animals in Georgia

Worried about snakes and spiders in Georgia? These stories aim to provide safety tips and identification methods for certain species of each.

Rattlesnakes often appear near lakes such as Lake Hartwell and Lake Lanier. They include venomous types such as the eastern diamond-backed rattlesnake and the timber rattlesnake. Copperheads increase in Georgia during summer due to mating season and environmental changes, moving closer to human habitats. They can be identified by their camouflage colors and hourglass patterns.

Banana spiders, also present in Georgia, are large and visible in humid areas. While not deadly, they can deliver a painful bite. Knowing these animals' habitats and appearances helps residents stay aware and safe.

NO. 1: WHAT’S THE DEAL WITH BANANA SPIDERS IN THE SOUTH? WHAT MS AND GA RESIDENTS SHOULD KNOW

Fun fact: Their silk can be spun into clothing or fishing nets and can be stronger than bulletproof Kevlar. | Published August 15, 2023 | Read Full Story by Chelsea Madden

NO. 2: RATTLESNAKES ARE RAMPANT AT THESE GA LAKES. WHAT TO WATCH FOR

Rattlesnakes love the Peach State, and here are the lakes where they hang out the most. | Published June 5, 2025 | Read Full Story by Chelsea Madden

NO. 3: COPPERHEADS ON THE RISE IN GA RIGHT NOW. HERE’S WHY & HOW TO STAY SAFE, EXPERTS SAY

Late summer brings even more intense heat and humidity to Georgia and as if we didn’t already have enough to battle outdoors, there’s one critter that is surging even more now. | Published August 19, 2025 | Read Full Story by Chelsea Madden

The summary above was drafted with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists in our News division. All stories listed were reported, written and edited by McClatchy journalists.