When the Grass Moves: What to Know About Snakes in Your Yard

As spring turns to summer, snakes become more active, often showing up in yards, gardens, garages, and even under porches. While most snakes are non-venomous and beneficial to the ecosystem, unexpected encounters can be startling and potentially dangerous.

At Wildernex, we’re here to help you stay safe, informed, and snake-free this season with professional wildlife control services you can trust.

Why Are Snakes More Active Right Now?

Warmer temperatures bring snakes out of brumation (a reptile’s version of hibernation), and spring is prime time for feeding and mating. Your yard can be an attractive place if it offers:

• Shade and shelter (brush piles, wood stacks, tall grass)
• Water sources (ponds, bird baths, leaky hoses)
• Abundant prey (like rodents, frogs, or insects)

That’s why even a clean yard can occasionally host a scaly visitor.

Common Snakes Found in Texas & Louisiana

Depending on where you live, you may encounter several species, including:

• Rat Snakes – Non-venomous, excellent climbers, often found in attics or barns
• Garter Snakes – Small, harmless, and often spotted in gardens
• Copperheads – Venomous, well-camouflaged, and more likely to be found in wooded or brushy areas
• Water Snakes – Non-venomous but often mistaken for cottonmouths
• Coral Snakes – Rare but venomous; brightly colored with red, yellow, and black bands

Signs a Snake May Be Nearby

Not every snake makes a grand entrance. Look for subtle signs like:

• Shed snake skins around foundations, garages, or basements
• Snake tracks or trails in dust or soft soil
• Sightings of rodents, which may attract snakes to hunt
• Unusual pet behavior, like barking or sniffing at a fixed spot

What to Do If You See a Snake

Whether it’s in your yard or near your home, follow these steps:

• Stay calm – Don’t try to catch or kill it. Many bites occur when people try to handle snakes.
• Keep your distance – At least 6 feet is ideal.
• Secure pets and children – Bring them indoors immediately.
• Take a photo (if safe) – Identification can help wildlife professionals.
• Call a professional – Contact Wildernex for safe, humane removal.

Never assume a snake is harmless. Even non-venomous species can bite when threatened.

Snake Prevention Tips for Homeowners

Keeping snakes off your property starts with reducing what attracts them:

• Keep grass trimmed and remove brush, wood piles, and debris
• Seal gaps around your home’s foundation and under doors
• Repair screen doors and crawl space vents
• Remove bird feeders, which can attract rodents (and snakes)
• Avoid leaving pet food outside

Need help with prevention? Wildernex offers home inspections and exclusion services to keep snakes and other wildlife out, for good.

When in Doubt, Call the Experts

Snakes play an important role in the ecosystem, but they don’t belong in your living space. If you suspect or spot one, let Wildernex take it from here. We’re trained in proper identification, safe removal, and long-term prevention strategies.