Rattlesnake Removal: What You Need to Know
Rattlesnakes can be a real threat to your family and pets, especially if you live in an area where they’re common. As humans continue to build homes closer to the snakes’ natural habitats, encounters are becoming more frequent.
Removing rattlesnakes on your own can be incredibly dangerous. Without the right training and equipment, you risk serious injury. That’s why professional snake removal services are so important. They offer a safe and effective way to get rid of rattlesnakes on your property.
This guide covers the costs of rattlesnake removal, the methods professionals use, and how to prevent future encounters. It will also help you understand the dangers of rattlesnakes and the importance of identifying snake species in your area. If you are in need of rattlesnake removal near me, this guide will help you find qualified professionals.
Understanding Rattlesnakes: Identification and Behavior
Before you start searching for “rattlesnake removal near me,” it’s helpful to know a little bit about these snakes. Knowing what they look like and how they behave can help you stay safe and make informed decisions.
Identifying Rattlesnakes
Rattlesnakes have a few distinct physical characteristics that make them relatively easy to identify:
- They have triangular heads
- Their bodies are thick
- And, of course, they have a rattle on their tails
Different types of rattlesnakes have different colors and patterns, often helping them blend into their surroundings. In California, for example, the most common species is the Northern Pacific Rattlesnake, which tends to be brown, tan, or gray with darker blotches.
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Rattlesnake Behavior
Rattlesnakes often live in rocky areas, under piles of wood, and in thick bushes or shrubs. They like to be near water and places where they can find rodents and other prey.
They’re usually most active in the spring and fall, when the weather is warm. They tend to be crepuscular, which means they’re most active around dawn and dusk, when the temperature is just right for them.
Rattlesnake Removal Costs: A Comprehensive Breakdown
So, how much can you expect to pay for rattlesnake removal? Here’s a breakdown of the different factors that influence the price.
Average Costs for Rattlesnake Removal
The national average for venomous snake removal, including rattlesnakes, typically runs between $500 and $600. But keep in mind that factors like your location, the size of the snake, and how easy it is to access the snake can all impact the final cost.
Factors Influencing the Cost
Need snake removal services right now? Emergency or after-hours calls are likely to cost extra. Also, if the snake is chilling in a hard-to-reach spot, like your attic or crawl space, that’ll probably bump up the price too.
Cost by Removal Method
Snake Relocation
This involves safely capturing the rattlesnake and moving it to a more suitable habitat far away from people. The cost depends on how far the snake needs to be relocated and any local regulations that might apply.
Live Trapping
With live trapping, specialized traps are used to capture the snake without hurting it. This method might require multiple visits, which can influence the overall cost.
Additional Cost Considerations
Snake Inspection
A snake inspection can help determine if you have snakes, what kind they are, and how big of a problem it is. These inspections can run $75 and up.
Nest Removal
If the snake pro is unlucky (or lucky?) enough to find a rattlesnake nest, removing it will add to the total cost. Nest removal requires a delicate touch to make sure all the snakes are removed safely and humanely.
Professional vs. DIY Rattlesnake Removal: Weighing the Risks
You might be tempted to try to remove a rattlesnake yourself, but consider that there are some serious dangers involved in DIY snake removal.
Dangers of DIY Rattlesnake Removal
A rattlesnake bite can be extremely dangerous and even fatal, requiring immediate medical care. If you don’t have training and the right equipment, you’re putting yourself at risk of being bitten.
Also, DIY methods often aren’t all that effective, and they can even make the snake more agitated and likely to strike. Mishandling a rattlesnake can cause it to escape, putting your neighbors and pets in danger.
Benefits of Hiring Professionals
Professional snake removal services have the know-how, experience, and gear to safely capture and remove rattlesnakes from your property. They know how to ID different snake species, understand snake behavior, and use the right techniques to remove them.
What’s more, they know local laws about snake removal and relocation. They’ll treat the snake humanely and move it to a safe habitat where it can thrive.
Finding a Qualified Rattlesnake Removal Service Near You
When it comes to venomous snakes, you want a professional who knows what they’re doing. Here’s how to find one.
How to Research Local Services
- Online directories and reviews. Sites like Yelp, Google, and Angie’s List are great places to start your search. Take the time to read reviews and testimonials to get a sense of the service quality.
- Professional organizations and certifications. Look for companies that are members of organizations like the National Wildlife Control Operators Association (NWCOA). Certifications and licenses show the company is serious about expertise and following industry best practices.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring
Once you’ve got a few candidates, it’s time to dig a little deeper.
- Experience and qualifications. Ask how much experience they have specifically with rattlesnakes. And make sure they have the right training, certifications, and insurance.
- Removal methods and safety procedures. Understand how they plan to capture and move the snake. They should prioritize safety and treat the animals humanely.
- Cost estimates and guarantees. Get a detailed cost estimate up front and ask about any extra fees that might pop up. Also, see if they offer any guarantees or warranties on their work.
Rattlesnake Prevention: Protecting Your Property
The best way to deal with rattlesnakes is to keep them away from your home and family in the first place. Here are some steps you can take to make your property less appealing to these venomous reptiles.
Identifying and Eliminating Attractants
Rattlesnakes are predators, so they’re drawn to places where they can find food and shelter.
Food Sources
Rattlesnakes love to eat rodents, so control rodent populations by getting rid of their food sources and using traps or professional pest control. Make sure garbage cans are tightly sealed, and don’t leave pet food outside. These attract rodents, which, in turn, attract snakes.
Shelter and Hiding Places
Rattlesnakes will hide in wood piles, rock piles, and general yard debris. Remove these from your yard. Trim your grass, shrubs, and trees so snakes don’t find your yard appealing.
Sealing Entry Points
Rattlesnakes can squeeze through surprisingly small openings.
Foundation and Walls
Check your home’s foundation and walls for cracks or openings and seal them with caulk or sealant. Pay close attention to where pipes and wires enter the house.
Doors and Windows
Make sure your doors and windows are properly sealed and have screens that fit tightly. Install weather stripping to keep snakes from squeezing through gaps.
Natural Deterrents and Barriers
You can also try some natural methods for keeping snakes away.
Snake Fencing
Install snake fencing around your property to create a physical barrier. It can cost around $8 per linear foot.
Natural Repellents
Some people swear by natural deterrents like lemongrass, cinnamon, or clove oil, although their effectiveness isn’t guaranteed. Some plants, like marigolds, are also thought to repel snakes.
Understanding the Risks: Rattlesnake Bites and First Aid
Though most rattlesnakes would prefer to avoid humans altogether, it’s important to understand the risks of rattlesnake bites and how to administer first aid if you or someone you know has been bitten.
Symptoms of a Rattlesnake Bite
Symptoms can be immediate, and they can be systemic.
Immediate signs that you’ve been bitten by a rattlesnake include severe pain, swelling, and redness at the site, along with visible fang marks.
Systemic symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and weakness, along with difficulty breathing and blurred vision.
First Aid Procedures
If you’ve been bitten by a rattlesnake, it’s important to stay calm and seek medical attention immediately. Remove any jewelry or tight clothing near the bite site in case of swelling.
Here’s what not to do if you’ve been bitten by a rattlesnake:
- Do not try to suck out the venom.
- Do not apply a tourniquet.
- Do not ice the bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you call someone to remove a snake?
Yes, absolutely! It’s highly recommended not to handle a snake yourself, especially if you suspect it’s venomous. Animal control services are a good first call. If they don’t handle snake removal, they can usually point you towards licensed wildlife removal specialists or herpetological societies in your area who are equipped to safely and humanely relocate snakes.
How much does it cost to remove a rattlesnake?
The cost of rattlesnake removal varies based on location, the company you hire, and the complexity of the situation. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $500 or more. Factors influencing the price include the time of day (emergency after-hours calls are pricier), the snake’s location (under a deck vs. out in the open), and whether multiple snakes are present.
How do you get rid of a rattlesnake?
The best way to “get rid” of a rattlesnake is to prevent them from coming onto your property in the first place. Clear away brush, woodpiles, and debris that provide shelter. Seal any gaps in your foundation or around pipes. If you spot a rattlesnake, keep a safe distance and call a professional for removal. Never try to kill or handle it yourself – that’s when bites happen!
Final Thoughts
Rattlesnake removal is a serious business. Because these venomous snakes can pose a significant threat to people and pets, it’s a job best left to the experts.
Understanding rattlesnake behavior and taking steps to prevent encounters can greatly reduce the risks. Learn what attracts rattlesnakes to your yard and how to make your property less inviting. Simple measures like clearing brush, trimming vegetation, and sealing cracks and crevices can make a big difference.
Educating yourself and your family is also key. Make sure everyone knows how to identify rattlesnakes, understands their behavior, and knows what to do if they encounter one. The more you know, the better you can protect yourself and your loved ones.
Ultimately, your safety is paramount. If you suspect a rattlesnake is on your property, don’t hesitate to contact a professional rattlesnake removal service. By taking proactive steps and prioritizing safety, you can coexist peacefully with these creatures and protect your home and family from harm.