Snakes :: Terrier Technologies LLC

Identification

Snakes are reptiles that are covered in scales. There are many different types of snakes, so it is important to be familiar with the most common in each service territory. The vast majority of snakes that may be encountered are harmless. A venomous snake has not been trapped by Varment Guard to date.

In general, venomous snakes have distinct heads. Non-venomous snakes have a rounded head, while venomous snakes have a more triangular-shaped head. However, some non-venomous snakes can mimic the triangular shape of non-venomous snakes by flattening their heads

The most common varieties include garter, water and black rat snakes.

Garter Snake

Black Rat Snake

Northern Water Snake

Biology

Breeding period: March-May

Gestation: 28-45 days

Birth period: June-October

Clutches per year: 1

Clutch size: 10-30

Feeding period: 1-2 times per week, times vary

Snakes feed on insects, frogs, fish, rodents, eggs, other snakes.

Range- Various species of snakes live in all parts of the United States besides Alaska.

Inspection

Snake removal requests mostly come in when snakes enter a building or are seen around the exterior of the home.

Make sure to use information on where the customer has seen activity as a starting point for inspection.

Start by inspecting the foundation, lower areas of siding, flashing, door sweeps, thresholds, holes for utilities, gaps in walkways/driveways, under cement stairs, and areas where brick/stone meets another siding material.

In areas that have snakes that are prone to climbing, inspect rooflines and vents.

Inside homes, snake skins and droppings can be found in areas that snakes are inhabiting. The most common place to find them is attics but they can be anywhere.

Snake Climbing Wall

Snake Skins in Attic

Snake Droppings

Control

Covered glue board traps are used to capture snakes.

For some larger snakes, baited cage-style traps may be used.

With both types of traps, the use of drift fence can increase the catch rate.

If snakes are getting inside a building a proposal for exclusion should be provided to the customer.

Application of the repellent Snake-A-Way around the foundation is included in trapping services and will be applied on completion of trapping. Snake-A-Way interferes with the snakes ability to hunt for food and can at times help to keep snakes away from a structure.

Covered Glue Board Trap

Snake Repellent

Pro Tips

Snakes are cold-blooded and will often find a spot in direct light to sun themselves.

Glue board traps should be placed along natural travel paths such as foundations, stairs and other structural guidelines.

Covers have a black side to increase heat and a white side to cool traps for use in all weather conditions.

Snakes are easily removed from the glue boards with the use of vegetable oil.