What to do if there's a rattlesnake in your yard?

If you encounter a venomous snake in your yard, take it seriously. The snake should be removed to ensure that no one, including pets, gets hurt. Note: This does not mean the snake has to be killed. In many places, you can call animal-control or local police or fire departments to remove the snake.

What should I do if I see a rattlesnake?

Avoid approaching any snake you cannot positively identify as a safe species. If you hear the warning rattle, move away from the area and do not make sudden or threatening movements in the direction of the snake. Remember rattlesnakes do not always rattle before they strike!

Do rattlesnakes chase you?

Do rattlesnakes chase humans? Simply put, no, but when a snake of any kind is moving toward a human, their movements can be misinterpreted as an attack.

What attracts rattlesnakes to yard?

Areas with a lot of wood, mulch, or piles of leaves attract small mammals like rodents that are snakes' prey. These creatures are likely attracting the rattlesnakes to your yard.

What time of day are rattlesnakes most active?

While they can be out any time, rattlesnakes are most active in the morning and from dusk into the night. They hunt mice and rodents in darkness because they can sense body heat with special organs on their face.

Here's what you should do if you find a snake in your yard | KVUE

What smells keep rattlesnakes away?

What scents do snakes dislike? There are many scents snakes don't like including smoke, cinnamon, cloves, onions, garlic, and lime. You can use oils or sprays containing these fragrances or grow plants featuring these scents.

Should I run from a rattlesnake?

But seriously, don't run; getting your heart rate up makes the venom seep faster. Skip the snakebite kits and tourniquets; that's outdated advice. Just call Poison Control at 800-222-1222 ASAP.

Do rattlesnakes roam at night?

During the spring, summer, and early fall months, rattlesnakes come out at all hours of the day and night. Yes, rattlesnakes do come out at night. In fact, because of their heat sensing organs, they can see just as well at night as they can during the day.

Are rattlesnakes afraid of anything?

Rattlesnakes will purposely attack only animals smaller than themselves, such as rodents, unless they are frightened by noise, vibrations or certain odors. They are afraid of humans (mainly because of our size) and would rather run than fight if possible.

Are rattlesnakes aggressive?

Generally not aggressive, rattlesnakes strike when threatened or deliberately provoked, but given room they will retreat. Most snake bites occur when a rattlesnake is handled or accidentally touched by someone walking or climbing.

Can you rattlesnake proof your yard?

To make your yard a poor rattlesnake habitat, try removing debris, mowing grasses and weeds, and getting rid of any rodents that live in your yard. The best and most reliable method to prevent rattlers from coming into your yard is a rattlesnake-proof fence.

Where do rattlesnakes go during the day?

Most snakes will utilize underground burrows or entrances under large rocks to escape the heat of the day. The warm season is the only real active time our species of rattlesnake (along with most other snakes), so of course they're going to want to hunt for a meal and find other places to use as shelter.

How do I protect my dog from rattlesnakes?

What kills rattlesnakes?

Rattlesnakes are preyed upon by hawks, weasels, king snakes, and a variety of other species. Rattlesnakes are heavily preyed upon as neonates, while they are still weak and immature. Large numbers of rattlesnakes are killed by humans.

How do I protect my house from rattlesnakes?

What month are rattlesnakes most active?

Rattlesnakes usually start moving away from their hibernation dens around April or May (usually May), then back again in September and October (usually September). They are most likely to be encountered on the trail during this time frame.

How do you know if a rattlesnake is in your yard?

What animals keep rattlesnakes away?

Use Natural Predators

Foxes and raccoons are common predators of snakes. Guinea hens, turkeys, pigs, and cats will also help keep snakes away. If foxes are indigenous to your area, fox urine is a very good natural repellent for snakes when spread around your property.

How far can a rattlesnake jump at you?

attacked, snakes will stand their ground and may attempt to strike at or even bite their intruder. As a rule of thumb, rattlesnakes can, at best, strike a distance of two-thirds their total body length. For example, a three foot long snake may be able to strike a distance of two feet.

What month do rattlesnakes come out?

There is no clear end date for rattlesnake season, but according to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, most bites occur between April and October when people and snakes are outdoors.

Can dogs smell rattlesnakes?

A: No, most breeds cannot smell reptiles. Only the breeds with the most developed sense of smell—retrievers, Blood hounds, Bassets, Beagles — are able to detect snakes merely by smell.

Do dogs scare snakes?

While it's not entirely conclusive that snakes will stay away from doggos and that doggos can keep them away, it's obvious that, due to a canine's insane sense of smell and hearing, they're the perfect snake hunters. With that in mind, it's easy to conclude that pups might be one of the best bets to keep snakes away.

What temperature kills rattlesnakes?

If a rattlesnake doesn't have a good place to hide when it is this hot, it's in big trouble. A rattlesnake will die when its body temperature gets too far above 110F (Klauber, pg 418-420).