Pest Control Advice

The last thing anyone wants to see in their garden is a snake. Even if the snake spots you panicking and slithers away, you'll worry that it's hiding somewhere or will come back. Plus, if you don't know much about snakes—apart from the fact you don't like them—then you won't have any idea if the snake is harmless or venomous. All you'll want to do is to get the snake out of your garden for good.  What should you do next?

Leave the Snake Alone

Don't be tempted to catch the snake. You can't suddenly develop into a snake catcher just because you want to get rid of a trespassing snake. If this goes wrong or you antagonise the snake, then it may bite you.

While you can try to encourage the snake to leave by making a noise or waving your arms around from a safe distance, this may not work in the long-term. A startled snake may go away, only to come back again later.

Get a Good Look at the Snake

While you may not know what kind of snake you're dealing with, other people will. If the snake is staying still and seems calm, then try to get a look at it from a safe distance. Take note of its size, colour and markings. If you have your phone with you, take a quick photo without getting too close. This may be useful later.

Retreat to the House

If the snake is making you anxious, then you don't want to be around it. Your safest move now is to leave the garden and go indoors. This is particularly important if you have kids or pets around. You don't want curious kids prodding a snake. Pets like dogs may decide to take the snake on and may get bitten if they pick a fight.

Close Doors and Windows

If the snake is close to your house, then close down any access points like doors and windows. If you have any holes in your walls that you think the snake might use to get in, then block these from the inside.

Call a Pest Control Company

To get the snake out of your garden once and for all, call a local pest control company that deals with snakes. Tell them everything you can about the snake—this helps them identify it and assess if you need immediate help. They can then come out, catch the snake and take it away. Usually, pest control companies release snakes into suitable wild environments, so this snake shouldn't bother you again.

For more information on dealing with household pests, contact a pest control company in your area.