Florida’s diverse wildlife is renowned, and among its many species, the garter snake is a common sight. Despite their generally harmless nature, many residents and visitors alike may feel a sense of unease or even fear upon encountering one. Understanding that garter snakes are beneficial to the ecosystem, serving as a natural form of pest control by consuming insects, worms, and small rodents, is crucial. However, their presence in yards or homes can sometimes necessitate safe removal. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to safely remove garter snakes from your property and prevent future encounters.
Understanding Garter Snakes
Before delving into removal and prevention strategies, it’s essential to understand a bit about garter snakes. They are not venomous and are generally not aggressive unless threatened or cornered. Garter snakes are recognized by their long, slender bodies, often with a distinctive stripe running along their backs, though color patterns can vary significantly. They are excellent swimmers and can be found near water sources, but they also thrive in a variety of other habitats, including backyards with suitable cover like leaves, woodpiles, or bushes.
Safe Removal of Garter Snakes
Removing a garter snake from your property can be a straightforward process if done correctly. Here are some steps and tips to ensure safe removal for both you and the snake:
Remain Calm: It’s crucial to stay calm when you see a snake. Garter snakes are more likely to flee than fight, but they may release a foul-smelling secretion as a defense mechanism if they feel threatened.
Identify the Snake: Ensure the snake is indeed a garter snake and not a species that could pose a threat, such as a venomous snake. If you’re unsure, it’s best to keep a safe distance and consider professional removal.
Use the Right Equipment: Wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and closed shoes to protect yourself. For removal, a pair of sturdy gloves and a snake hook or a long-handled grabber can be useful.
Approach Carefully: Move slowly and deliberately towards the snake to avoid startling it. If the snake is in a confined space like a garage or shed, open the door to allow it to leave on its own if possible.
Encourage It to Leave: If the snake does not leave on its own, you can try to encourage it by placing a long, flat piece of wood or cardboard next to it. Sometimes, gently guiding the snake onto this makeshift slide with a gentle push from the hook or grabber can help it move towards an opening.
Release It Far Away: If you must handle the snake (always the last resort), wear gloves, grasp it securely behind the head, and release it at least a mile away from your property to prevent re-entry.
Prevention Tips
Preventing garter snakes from entering your property in the first place is the most effective way to avoid encounters. Here are some prevention strategies:
Seal All Entry Points: Garter snakes can squeeze through very small openings. Ensure your home’s foundation, vents, and any holes around pipes or electrical conduits are sealed.
Keep Your Yard Clean: Remove debris, keep your grass short, and eliminate standing water around your home. This will reduce the attractiveness of your yard to snakes and their prey.
Install a Snake-Proof Fence: If you live in an area prone to snake sightings, consider installing a fence that extends at least 12 inches below ground level to prevent burrowing.
Remove Food Sources: Keep your yard free of potential snake food. Regularly inspect for and remove insects, rodents, and other small animals that might attract snakes.
Landscape Wisely: Avoid using mulch or wood chips, which can attract snakes. Instead, use gravel or other materials that are less appealing to them.
Conclusion
While encountering a garter snake can be unsettling, understanding their role in the ecosystem and knowing how to safely remove them can mitigate concerns. By following the prevention tips outlined above, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of unwanted snake encounters. Remember, garter snakes are generally harmless and beneficial, so whenever possible, it’s best to peacefully coexist. If you’re ever in doubt about the safety of removing a snake or if you’re dealing with a species that could be dangerous, don’t hesitate to contact a professional wildlife removal service.
FAQ Section
Are garter snakes poisonous?
+No, garter snakes are not poisonous. They may release a foul-smelling secretion as a defense mechanism, but they are not venomous and pose no significant threat to humans.
How do I keep garter snakes out of my house?
+To keep garter snakes out of your house, ensure that all entry points are sealed, including holes around the foundation, vents, and pipes. Regularly inspect your home’s exterior and seal any gaps or cracks. Keeping your yard clean and free of debris can also help deter snakes.
Can garter snakes be pets?
+While it’s technically possible to keep a garter snake as a pet, it’s not generally recommended unless you’re experienced with snake care. Garter snakes have specific habitat and dietary needs, and capturing them from the wild can be harmful to both the snake and the ecosystem. If you’re interested in having a snake as a pet, consider species that are bred in captivity for the pet trade.
How often do garter snakes bite?
+Garter snakes are not typically aggressive and tend to avoid humans. They may bite if they are cornered, threatened, or handled improperly, but such instances are rare. Most people who encounter garter snakes can safely remove them without being bitten.
What attracts garter snakes to my yard?
+Garter snakes are attracted to yards with abundant food sources, such as insects, worms, and small rodents. They also prefer areas with suitable shelter, like piles of debris, woodpiles, or dense vegetation, and access to water. Keeping your yard clean and free of standing water can help deter snakes.
