Surprise in the Deep End

We'll be honest — it took us a second look too.

Showed up for an inspection this week and spotted this dark, patterned snake cruising along the wall of an otherwise beautiful pool. Based on the coloring and keeled scales, this is likely a Black Rat Snake — one of Georgia's most common (and harmless) backyard visitors.

They're strong swimmers but pool walls are a dead end for them. No grip, no exit. What starts as a curiosity can turn fatal fast without a way out.

We got him safely netted and relocated to the tree line where he belongs. The pool got a clean bill of health too.

🐍 Always do a visual sweep before you jump in, folks.