How To Get A Snake Out Of A Hole: A Step-By-Step Guide

Finding a snake in an unexpected place like a hole in your yard can be startling. If you want to safely remove the snake without harming it, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: Use a long stick or pole to gently guide the snake out of the hole without touching it directly. Only attempt to capture it by hand if you can clearly identify it as nonvenomous.

In this approximately 3000 word guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about removing snakes from holes, including identifying venomous vs. nonvenomous species, using tools to extract snakes, taking proper safety precautions, and what to do after you’ve removed the snake.

Identifying Venomous vs. Nonvenomous Snakes

Visual Identification Tips

When trying to identify if a snake is venomous, there are some key visual characteristics to look for. Here are some tips:

• Head shape – Venomous snakes tend to have triangular-shaped heads, while nonvenomous snakes often have rounded heads.
• Eyes – Venomous snakes have elliptical (cat-eye) shaped pupils, while nonvenomous snakes have round pupils.
• Scales – Venomous snakes tend to have keeled (ridged) scales, while nonvenomous snakes often have smooth scales.
• Tail shape – Venomous snakes tend to have pointed tails, while nonvenomous snakes often have blunt tails.

Some exceptions exist, so never handle a snake unless you’re absolutely certain it’s not venomous. When in doubt, steer clear and call an expert for help!

Where Venomous Snakes Live

In the United States, venomous snakes are found in almost every state, but populations tend to be densest in the southern and western regions. According to research from the University of Florida^[1], the states with the highest numbers of venomous snake species are:

• Arizona – 13 species
• California – 12 species
• Florida – 16 species
• Texas – 15 species

Some venomous snakes like copperheads and cottonmouths live throughout the eastern and southern U.S. Rattlesnakes are very widespread in the west. Coral snakes live in the southeastern states. Be extra cautious in areas where venomous snakes are prevalent.

When Snakes Are Most Active

Snakes are cold-blooded, so their activity levels depend greatly on external temperatures. In most regions, snakes are most active when outdoor temps are between 75-95°F during the spring, summer, and fall seasons. They often hibernate in winter when it’s too cold. Peak activity times are:

• Early morning – Snakes may bask in the first warm sun rays after a cool night.
• Late afternoon – The ground has been warmed all day, stirring snakes to hunt.
• After rain – The dampness brings worms and insects out, attracting hungry snakes.

When enjoying the outdoors during snake active seasons and times, wear tall boots and thick pants. Also avoid reaching into sheltered areas like under rocks or logs where snakes may hide. Being alert and giving snakes space is the best way to safely coexist!

Gather the Proper Tools

When attempting to extract a snake from a confined space, having the right tools on hand will make the process easier and safer. Here are some of the most useful items to gather ahead of time before trying to evict your serpentine invader.

Snake Hooks

Specialized snake hooks are essential for safely managing snakes without getting too close or putting your hands directly on the animal. These poles have a gentler curved hook on the end, allowing you to pin down and lift snakes from a distance.

Tongs

Extra-long tongs come in handy if the snake has gone deep into a crevice where hooks can’t reach. Open and close the tong ends to securely grasp the snake for safe removal once you’ve made contact.

Buckets

Have an empty bucket on standby for safely containing the snake once captured. Plastic works best, as snakes can’t easily slither up smooth sides. You may also consider pillowcases or cloth bags, but make sure they are tightly secured.

Bags

For added protection, heavy canvas bags allow you to isolate the snake’s head and prevent bites. Carefully slip the bag over the snake’s body while using hooks and tongs to maneuver it inside.

Tape

Duct tape can temporarily patch any openings the snake may have slipped through so it can’t immediately return once removed. Make sure to properly fill holes later on though!

Having the right specialized gear makes snake extraction much less daunting. Consider keeping a “snake kit” ready with these items in case any sneaky serpents encroach on your property again. The more preparation, the better!

And there you have it – the essentials for facing off with a snake set on making your hole its home. Don’t forget to check local regulations on snakes and removal before taking action. With the proper tools and cautions, that unwanted tenant will be sent packing in no time!

Just remember to stay calm and always put safety first.

Extracting the Snake Safely

Approach Cautiously and Observe

When attempting to remove a snake from a hole, caution is key. First, carefully observe the snake’s behavior before getting close – is it coiled defensively or showing signs of aggression like hissing? If so, give it more space. Non-aggressive snakes may be slowly exploring or flicking their tongue.

It’s also critical to identify the species if possible, as this determines the level of potential danger.

Next, approach extremely slowly and announce your presence by making noise and vibrations. Sudden movements could startle the snake. Stop frequently to reassess – if the snake becomes distressed, pause your approach. Your safety is the top concern.

Having another person nearby is also recommended in case assistance is needed.

Use Tools, Not Hands

When handling any snake, tools should always be used rather than bare hands to avoid bites and promote safe removal. Recommended items include:

• Extra-long forceps
• Snake hooks
• Thick leather gloves

These specialized tools allow the snake to be handled without placing hands at risk. Research the correct use of each device prior to attempting capture.

Guide the Snake Out Gently

Once equipped with proper tools, the next step is to gently encourage the snake to exit its hiding place. Approach slowly and use forceps to grasp right behind the head. Carefully pull with steady pressure at first to test the snake’s response.

Often reptiles instinctively slither forward when traction on their scales increases. Be patient and ready to pause if met with strong resistance.

Alternatively, slide hooked graspers beneath a portion of the body to act as a guide while applying the same steady, outward traction. Let the snake move at its own pace to reduce stress. Moving too suddenly could risk injury.

Your focus should be providing a supported path out rather than forcefully yanking the snake from its shelter.

Support the Snake’s Body

As the snake emerges, use your tools to fully support its body weight so it does not twist or drop. Snakes this vulnerable and visible may lash out defensively if distressed. Carefully position added graspers, hooks and gloves underneath the snake as more length slides forward to create a secure cradle guiding it completely from the hole.

Be prepared to control an active snake once extracted by continuing to pin it safely. Venomous species should only be handled by snake removal experts with specialized equipment. For non-venoms snakes, transport them securely away from the original hole in a bag, bin or hooked pole grasper.

Then release in a safe habitat at least 5 miles from the capture site.

Capturing and Releasing the Snake

Nonvenomous Snakes

If you encounter a nonvenomous snake like a garter snake or rat snake in or around your home, the humane thing to do is to try and capture it and release it safely away from your property. Here are some tips for doing this safely:

• Use long handled tools like tongs or a snake hook to pick up the snake. Never use your bare hands as even nonvenomous snakes can bite.
• Guide the snake into a pillowcase, burlap sack, or bucket for transport. Tie the top securely.
• If you have to temporarily contain the snake, place it in a secure ventilated plastic bin or bucket.
• Release the snake as soon as possible in a suitable habitat at least 5 miles from your home.
• Wear protective gloves and safety goggles just in case the snake becomes defensive.

Capturing and releasing nonvenomous snakes humanely prevents them from being killed unnecessarily. It also helps maintain balance in the local ecosystem.

Venomous Snakes

If you find a venomous snake like a rattlesnake, copperhead, cottonmouth, or coral snake on your property, do not attempt to capture or handle it yourself. Venomous snake bites can be extremely dangerous and even life-threatening. Here’s what you should do:

• Keep yourself, children, and pets away from the snake and restrict access to the area.
• Call a professional snake removal service or licensed herpetologist to safely capture and relocate the snake.
• You can also contact animal control services for assistance.
• If the snake is inside your home, close off the room and stuff towels under the door to contain it until the removal expert arrives.
• Do not try to kill the snake yourself as this often leads to bites.

Trying to capture or kill a venomous snake without proper training and equipment can be extremely risky. Always leave it to the professionals for a safe removal.

Snake-Proofing Your Property

To help deter snakes from entering your yard and home, there are some effective snake-proofing measures you can take:

• Clear away logs, rock piles, thick vegetation, and debris where snakes may hide.
• Seal cracks and holes in your home’s foundation, walls, doors, and windows.
• Use snake-proof fencing made of fine mesh around gardens and flower beds.
• Install shelves between supporting stakes around the perimeter of garden beds to act as a snake barrier.
• Keep grass trimmed short and remove heavy mulch that snakes can hide under.
• Eliminate sources of food like birdseed and pet food that can attract rodents which snakes prey upon.

There are also commercial snake repellents available that use odor, vibration or radiation to drive snakes away. Be aware that none of these methods will work 100% of the time though. Vigilance is key to keeping snakes out of areas where they pose a risk.

What to Do After a Snake Bite

Symptoms of a Venomous Bite

If bitten by a venomous snake, the symptoms usually develop quickly, within 30 minutes to 2 hours. Common signs and symptoms include:

• Severe burning pain at the bite site
• Swelling, bruising and tenderness around the bite area
• Nausea and vomiting
• Rapid pulse and breathing
• Weakness and fainting
• Blurred vision

The area around the bite may also bleed and blister. Severe venom effects can start appearing within minutes after being bitten or up to 2 hours later.

First Aid

If you are bitten by a snake, here are some general first aid steps while waiting for medical care:

• Wash the bite area gently with soap and water if possible
• Remove rings, watches, bracelets or tight clothing near the affected area before swelling begins
• Position yourself, if possible, so that the bite area is at or below the level of your heart
• Cover the area with loose, sterile bandage if available
• Apply gentle pressure with a clean, dry cloth to control bleeding if needed
• Keep the person calm and restrict movement to prevent venom from spreading faster
• Take a photo of the snake if it’s possible and safe to do so. This may help identify the snake which bit you

Do not apply ice, cut the wound or attempt to suck out the venom. Any delay in seeking medical attention can prove detrimental.

Seeking Medical Care

It’s critical to get emergency treatment as soon as possible after being bitten by a venomous snake. Call local emergency number right away. While waiting for help:

• Remove any jewelry and tight fitting clothes before area starts to swell
• Position yourself so that bite area is at or below heart level to slow venom movement
• Stay as still as possible to keep venom localized
• Monitor bite site as well as heart rate and breathing. Write down symptoms to tell emergency responders

At the emergency room, the health care providers will clean the wound, monitor symptoms, run tests to identify the snake venom, and provide antivenom treatment if it’s a venomous bite. Supportive therapy will also be provided to control pain, nausea, low blood pressure etc.

With prompt antivenom treatment, most people survive snake bites. Permanent injury is rare if treated quickly, though the recovery time varies a lot depending on the snake species and amount of venom injected.

Conclusion

Snakes found in unexpected places can be startlng, but with proper identification and gently extraction techniques, you can remove a snake from a hole safely. Always use caution around venomous species and seek medical care immediately if bitten.

With the right tools and approach, you can humanely remove unwanted snakes from your property.