Snakes have developed a bad reputation with most humans, often with good reason. Snakes can look dangerous and menacing but the fact is that they very often more afraid of us than we are of them. However, many species of snakes can put a bite on you that, while not fatal, can be extremely dangerous. Believe it or not, snakes are often times beneficial to have around. Many species work to keep the population of rodents and other small mammals in check. But let us face it most people would prefer the look of a furry field mouse around the house over that of a snake.



Snakes are not known to cause any damage to your home or property. Discouraging snakes from taking up residence in or around your home involves knowing something about what attracts snakes in the first place. Armed with that knowledge you can work to control and eliminate those conditions. Rodents and other small mammals are a primary food source so make sure the exterior of your home is clean and free of trash and other conditions that attract rodents. Eliminating the snakes food supply can go a long way to eliminating your snake problem.

Snakes are cold-blooded and most species prefer a nice damp, cool and cozy environment. Trash piles, rocks, wood piles make for an inviting snake habitat so make sure to clean up around the exterior of your property. Stream beds and other moist environments may be present on your property and could be hard to eliminate. If you are concerned about snakes getting into an enclosed yard or childrens play area, you can erect a snake fence. Many local health departments and farm extension offices can provide you with information on how to build a proper snake fence. There are virtually no safe chemical means of dealing with snakes. Mothballs can act as a deterrent but may cause a health risk to humans and pets if ingested.

If you encounter a live snake always assume that the snake is of a venomous variety unless you are absolutely certain of the species type. If you run across a live snake do not panic as the excitement may actually make the snake anxious and more likely to strike. Larger snakes can be picked up with a long-handled shovel or long stick and moved to sealed trash container. You then have the option of moving the snake to another location or killing it. If you are not sure what to do, immediately contact your local animal control office and ask for assistance. Never attempt to pick up a snake regardless of whether it is alive or dead. While a live snake can most certainly bite you, a snake you killed say a minute or so ago can bite you as matter of neurological reflex.

If you must kill the snake avoid the use of firearms, especially in urban and suburban locales. Discharging a firearm may be illegal and pose a danger to you and anyone nearby. Striking the snake and severing the head from the body with a long-handled shovel is safer than trying to shoot it.

If you are bitten by a snake seek immediate medical attention. Do not attempt to cut open the bite area and suck out the poison. This practice is no longer recommended and can do more harm than good. Snake bites can pose a life or death situation. In addition to being exposed to the venom, the bite area can become infected so make sure you consult a doctor or local emergency room so you can be properly treated. The came advice applies if your pet is bitten. Seek immediate veterinary care for your pet.