Warning: Flooding will bring out snakes

Seminole County, Fla. — A homeowner in Heathrow Woods in Seminole County stepped out of her garage and found a large water moccasin within two feet of her.

Central Florida animal expert Bob Cross said the four-foot snake was trying to escape rising waters in a nearby swamp.

Water moccasins, also known as cottonmouths, are common in Florida.

Members of the pit viper family, they live in water and swampy areas. Florida Fish and Wildlife said the snakes are not necessarily aggressive, but should be avoided.

Central Floridians should take note water moccasins will not be the only type of snake on the move as Hurricane Dorian moves past.

"All snakes, everywhere, when there's flooding will move to higher ground," Cross explained. "They're kind of like alligators. They don't like to lay in the water, they like to be on the banks near the water, and go in the water when they desire. But when flooding comes along, it forces them to higher ground."

• Eastern Coral Snake
• Southern Copperhead
• Cottonmouth
• Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake
• Timber Rattlesnake
• Dusky Pygmy Rattlesnake

Emergency officials say anyone who is bitten by a venomous snake should call 911 immediately.