About Snakes

Snakes are reptiles found throughout our service areas, with most species being harmless and beneficial predators of rodents and other pests. Common species we encounter include rat snakes, garter snakes, king snakes, and occasionally venomous species like copperheads or cottonmouths.

Size & Appearance

Varies widely by species, from small 1-2 foot garter snakes to 6+ foot rat snakes. Coloration and patterns help with species identification.

Behavior

Most snakes are non-aggressive and prefer to avoid humans. They seek shelter, warmth, and food sources like rodents around properties.

Diet

Primarily carnivorous, feeding on rodents, insects, frogs, birds, and eggs, depending on the species.

Seasonality

Most active during warm months (spring through fall), with reduced activity or brumation (similar to hibernation) during winter.

Common Snake Concerns

Safety Concerns

Fear of venomous species and potential bites
Concern for children playing in yards
Pet safety, especially for curious dogs and cats
Unexpected encounters causing stress and anxiety

Home Invasion

Snakes entering homes through small gaps and openings
Taking up residence in basements, crawlspaces, and attics
Nesting and potentially reproducing in structures
Difficulty locating snakes once they're inside

Property Concerns

Repeated sightings of snakes around the property
Shed skins found in yards or structures
Presence of ideal snake habitat (rock piles, dense vegetation)
Inability to enjoy outdoor spaces due to snake concerns

Our Snake Removal Process

We use safe, humane methods to remove snakes from your property and implement effective prevention measures.

1

Inspection

Thorough assessment of your property to identify snake activity, potential entry points, and attractants.

2

Identification

Expert species identification to determine the appropriate removal approach, especially for venomous snakes.

3

Removal

Safe capture and relocation of snakes using specialized tools and techniques by trained professionals.

4

Prevention

Implementing exclusion measures and habitat modifications to prevent future snake presence.

Safety First: Never attempt to handle or remove snakes yourself, especially if you cannot positively identify the species. Some venomous snakes can be mistaken for non-venomous varieties. Always call professionals for safe removal.

Snake Prevention Strategies

After removing snakes, we implement these effective preventative measures to reduce the likelihood of future snake activity:

Habitat Modification

Removing attractive shelter like brush piles, tall grass, and rock accumulations near structures.
Rodent Control

Implementing rodent management to remove the primary food source that attracts snakes.
Exclusion Barriers

Installing snake-proof fencing or mesh around key areas like gardens, chicken coops, or yard perimeters.
Structural Sealing

Sealing gaps and cracks in foundations, walls, and around pipes to prevent snakes from entering buildings.

Venomous vs. Non-Venomous Snakes

Understanding the difference between venomous and non-venomous snakes in our service areas:

Common Venomous Species

Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix)
Cottonmouth/Water Moccasin (Agkistrodon piscivorus)
Timber Rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus)
Pygmy Rattlesnake (Sistrurus miliarius)

Common Non-Venomous Species

Black Rat Snake (Pantherophis obsoletus)
Eastern Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis)
King Snake (Lampropeltis getula)
Corn Snake (Pantherophis guttatus)
Eastern Hognose Snake (Heterodon platirhinos)

General Identification Tips

Venomous snakes in our region typically have:

Triangular-shaped heads
Vertical, elliptical pupils (like cat's eyes)
Heat-sensing pits between the eye and nostril (pit vipers)
Single row of scales under the tail

However, these are general guidelines and not foolproof. Always rely on professional identification for safety.

Important: Never attempt to handle or approach a snake you cannot positively identify. Call our professionals for safe removal.

Snake Removal & Control