Rattlesnake seen slithering in video as reported sightings rise in Georgia tourist spot
A rattlesnake slithers along the sand, winding its way between stalks of beach grass in video taken at a Georgia tourist spot.
Calls about the reptiles are on the rise in Tybee Island, police in the Savannah-area city said Tuesday in a Facebook post.
“These critters often live in the island’s dune system and usually stay well out of the way of our residents and guests,” the police department wrote on Facebook.
But as Tybee Island officials alerted visitors and residents to the increase in reported snake sightings, they said everyone should pay attention to their surroundings and contact police if animals pose a safety threat.
Officers shared footage of one of the rattlesnakes seen near the coast. Footage shows the scaly reptile twisting its body as it moves toward the shoreline.
The snake was taken to another area, “with no harm to humans or the animal,” according to police.
Three types of rattlesnakes, known for the sounds their tails make when encountering predators or prey, are listed among species on the Georgia Department of Natural Resources website.
Timber rattlesnakes can grow up to 5 feet long and are found in various habitats throughout the state, the website said.
Less common are pigmy rattlesnakes, which wildlife officials say live in “wooded areas and swamps” and rarely grow longer than 1 foot.
The eastern diamondback species are “uncommon” and usually dwell on land. Reptiles in that species can reach lengths of 6 feet or more, according to the state’s Wildlife Resources Division.
The three rattlesnake varieties are venomous, though it’s rare for snakes to bite humans, the division says. The animals usually don’t cause harm if people stay away from them, according to wildlife experts.
If a venomous snake bites someone, officials recommend the person seek emergency help and remove tight clothing and jewelry. It’s best to avoid being physically active, drinking and applying cold temperatures to the area of the snakebite, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.
This story was originally published September 16, 2020 at 11:02 AM with the headline "Rattlesnake seen slithering in video as reported sightings rise in Georgia tourist spot."
