Snakes

Snake Facts

There are thousands of species of snakes throughout the world. Snakes can be found everywhere except Antarctica. Most species are non-poisonous, but snakes that are use their venom primarily to paralyze or kill prey, not for self-defense.

Snake Infestation

Many people are terrified of snakes, especially when they find them in their home. Though most snakes won’t seek refuge in your house, they may end up in your garage or basement by accident as they follow prey like mice and rats. They won’t cause any structural damage to your home, but can certainly pose a health risk if the snake is venomous. If you are unsure if the snake in your home is venomous or are uncomfortable removing it from your home, contact a pest control company to get rid of the snake.

Snake Bites

Snakes will always try to flee a scene, or hide before attacking. In the rare occasions that someone is bitten, it’s usually because the snake feels threatened. If you are bitten, remove yourself from the area and seek medical attention immediately. Remove anything that may prevent blood circulation near the bite area, like clothing or jewelry. Then wash the wound with soap and warm water.

If bitten on your leg or arm, immobilize the extremity and make sure to keep it below your heart. Make note of the time you were bitten and the symptoms you experienced. Share every detail with the medical staff that arrives.

No matter what, do not try to “suck” the venom out, ice the wound, or use a tourniquet. None of these methods work effectively. If you’ve been bitten, focus on getting medical attention and following the steps above. Don’t worry about trying to catch the snake or identifying it. It could lead to more bites.

Types of Snakes

Snake Identification

Snakes vary is size and color. Though most aren’t poisonous, it’s important to be able to identify possible species that can cause harm if you stumble across them.

Rattlesnakes

Perhaps the easiest snake to identify, this venomous family of snake is known for its rattler. There are several species in the United States that range in size from the foot-long ridge-nosed rattlesnake to the eight-foot-long Eastern diamondback Rattlesnakes. Rattlesnakes also have triangular heads.

Common Snakes

As the name suggests, these snakes are common with more than 2,000 species. This includes recognizable snakes like the milk snake, the Eastern hognose snake, and the garter snake. Most common snake species are small to medium-sized.

Vipers

Because of their venom and how it’s delivered to their prey, vipers are considered to be the most evolved snake family. In North America, these venomous snakes fall under the subfamily of pit vipers. They have heat sensing pits that allow them to locate and strike prey even in the dark. The most common species of pit viper in the United States is the rattlesnake. Areas of Florida find the copperhead, cottonmouth and Eastern diamondback rattlesnake to be most common. These snakes can be identified by their triangular heads, and of course, the distinctive rattler at the end of their tail.

Snakes in the Garden & Home

Snakes are natural pest controllers as they love to eat rodents. However, this may lead snakes into your garden, home, or garage because they are following their prey. Some snakes love to sun themselves and can be found on your driveway or out in the grass. Others will seek refuge under rocks or in bushes in your yard.

Other Snakes

Hognose Snake

Gopher Snake