You’re walking through your backyard when you spot a snake slithering across the lawn. Your heart races and your first thought is, “Can I get rid of this snake on my own, or should I call a professional?”
Well, the good news is, yes, exterminators can get rid of snakes. They use specialized methods and equipment to safely remove or repel these slithery intruders, ensuring your home and property remain snake-free.
In this blog, we’ll explore how exterminators handle snake infestations, the benefits of hiring professionals, and what you can expect from the process. So, you can make the best decision for your safety and peace of mind.
Read on to find out!
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Understanding Snake Infestations
Snakes are typically drawn to areas that offer shelter, food, and water. Common residential snakes include both venomous and non-venomous species, such as garter snakes, rat snakes, and in some regions, even rattlesnakes.
Signs of a Snake Infestation
- Shedding Skin: Snakes periodically shed their skin as they grow. Finding remnants of this process in your home or garden is a clear sign that a snake has been nearby.
- Tracks: Snakes often leave behind trails in dusty areas or soft soil, which can help you identify their presence.
- Nests: Snakes tend to nest in hidden spots like attics, basements, or under debris in your yard.
- Sightings: Of course, actually seeing a snake is the most obvious sign of an infestation.
Common Areas Where Snakes Hide
Snakes are secretive creatures and are commonly found in cool, dark, and damp areas. They might hide in basements, attics, under decks, in woodpiles, or in tall grass and dense shrubs in your yard.
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Can Exterminators Handle Snakes?
You might be wondering, “Are exterminators really equipped to deal with snakes?” The answer is a resounding yes. Exterminators are well-trained professionals who know how to handle a wide variety of pests, including snakes.
In fact, their expertise lies in identifying the type of snake and choosing the appropriate method to remove it safely.
Methods Used by Exterminators to Get Rid of Snakes
Exterminators use several methods to handle snake infestations, such as the following:
Traps and Snares: One of the most common methods is using specialized snake traps or snares that capture the snake without harming it. These traps are usually baited and strategically placed in areas where snakes are known to travel.
Repellents and Deterrents: Exterminators may use chemical or natural repellents that create an inhospitable environment for snakes, encouraging them to leave the area.
Habitat Modification: By altering the environment around your home, such as removing debris, trimming vegetation, and sealing entry points, exterminators make the area less attractive to snakes.
The Process of Snake Removal
So, what happens when you call an exterminator to deal with a snake problem? Here’s a step-by-step look at the process:
Initial Inspection
The first thing an exterminator will do is inspect your property. They’ll look for signs of snake activity or trails, identify potential entry points, and assess the extent of the infestation. This inspection is crucial for determining the best course of action.
Snake Identification
Once the exterminator has an idea of where the snakes are and what they’re dealing with, they’ll identify the species.
This step is important because different species may require different handling methods. For example, removing a garter snake is quite different from dealing with a rattlesnake.
Snake Removal Techniques
Depending on the situation, the exterminator will use one or more of the following techniques:
- Physical Removal: For a snake that’s out in the open, the exterminator may use tools to safely capture and remove it.
- Trapping: If the snake is hiding, traps may be set to catch it later.
- Repellents: In some cases, applying a snake repellent around the property can drive the snake out into the open, where it can be captured.
Follow-up and Prevention
After the snake has been removed, the exterminator will offer advice on how to prevent future infestations. This might include sealing cracks and gaps in your home, removing debris, and keeping your lawn well-maintained.
Do-It-Yourself Snake Control vs. Hiring an Exterminator
You might be tempted to handle the snake problem yourself. While DIY snake control can be effective in some cases, it comes with its own set of risks.
Let’s find out:
Pros and Cons of DIY Snake Control
The main advantage of DIY snake control is cost. However, without proper training and equipment, you could end up getting hurt or making the problem worse.
For example, attempting to remove a venomous snake without the proper tools can be dangerous.
Advantages of Professional Extermination
Hiring a professional exterminator ensures that the snake is removed safely and effectively. Exterminators have the knowledge, tools, and experience to handle the situation correctly, reducing the risk to you and your family.
Costs Involved in Professional Snake Removal
You’re probably wondering about the cost. So, the price of professional snake removal typically varies depending on several factors:
Factors Affecting the Cost
The severity of the infestation, the type of snake, and the location of your property all play a role in determining the cost. A simple removal might be relatively inexpensive, while a more complex situation could be pricier.
Typical Price Range
On average, professional snake removal services can range from $100 to $500, depending on the complexity of the job. However, the peace of mind and safety provided by a professional service are often well worth the investment.
What to Expect After Extermination?
Once the exterminator has removed the snake(s), they may recommend a follow-up visit to ensure the problem is fully resolved.
Monitoring and Maintenance
Regular monitoring and maintenance are essential to keeping your property snake-free. This might involve checking for signs of new snake activity and making sure your property remains unattractive to snakes.
Habitat Modification Recommendations
Your exterminator might suggest changes to your landscaping or the way you store items outdoors to reduce the chances of future infestations.
These could include things like removing woodpiles, trimming tall grass, and sealing entry points around your home.
Preventive Measures to Keep Snakes Away
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some steps you can take to keep snakes away from your property:
Yard and Garden Maintenance
Regularly mow your lawn, trim bushes, and remove debris to eliminate potential hiding spots for snakes. Snakes are less likely to stick around if they don’t have a safe place to hide.
Using Snake Repellents
There are several types of snake repellents available, both natural and chemical. These can be applied around the perimeter of your property to deter snakes from entering.
Professional Advice for Long-Term Prevention
Your exterminator can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation. Following their recommendations will help keep your home snake-free for the long term.
Wrapping Up
In summary, yes, exterminators can effectively get rid of snakes. Their expertise, tools, and techniques make them the best option for safely removing these unwelcome guests from your property.
However, if you’ve spotted a snake or suspect an infestation, make sure to contact a professional as soon as possible. The peace of mind and safety they provide are well worth it.
