Martin County Animal Control officers recently relocated a venomous diamondback rattlesnake that was perched at a resident’s front door. The officers said that you may see more snakes slithering around because of a cooler winter in Florida than in the last several years. Since they are cold-blooded, reptiles like to bask in the sun to regulate their body temperatures. Snakes are now coming out to warm themselves up and are most active in the spring and fall. Their mating season is usually late summer to fall. The other reason we are seeing snakes more frequently is because of the development and clearing of land. Diamondback rattlesnakes are found throughout Florida. This is in line with their advice to always watch your step while outdoors, keep dogs on short leashes, and give snakes space if you see them.
Rattlesnake
There are many different types of rattlesnakes, but they all have one thing in common- their trademark rattle. Rattlesnakes got their name because of this telltale sound, which they use to warn predators and prey of their presence. Rattlesnakes are part of the pit viper family and are native to North America. They can be found in a variety of habitats, including deserts, forests, and even swamps.
Rattlesnakes are predators and feast on small animals like rodents, rabbits, and birds. They use their keen sense of smell to track down their prey, and their venomous bite quickly dispatches it. Rattlesnakes are also known to eat insects, lizards, and other snakes.
Rattlesnakes are ectothermic animals, which means they rely on their environment to regulate their body temperature. This can make them vulnerable to extreme weather conditions. For example, if it’s too cold outside rattlesnakes will become sluggish and may not be able to hunt properly.
Types of Rattlesnakes
There are many different types of rattlesnakes, each with its own unique features. Some of the most common types of rattlesnakes include the following:
- Diamondback Rattlesnake- This is the largest type of rattlesnake and can be found throughout North America. They get their name from the diamond-shaped pattern on their back.
- Timber Rattlesnake- This type of rattlesnake is found in forested areas of North America east of the Rocky Mountains. They are one of the most venomous snakes in North America.
- Pygmy Rattlesnake- As the name suggests, this is one of the smaller types of rattlesnakes. They are found in the southeastern United States.
- Prairie Rattlesnake- This type of rattlesnake is found in the grasslands of North America. They are one of the most common types of rattlesnakes and are responsible for more snake bites than any other type of rattlesnake.
- Blacktail Rattlesnake- This type of rattlesnake is found in western North America. They get their name from the black stripe that runs down their tail.
What To Do When You Encounter A Rattlesnake
If you encounter a rattlesnake, the best thing to do is to give it a wide berth and leave it alone. Rattlesnakes are generally shy animals and will try to avoid humans whenever possible. However, if they feel threatened they can become very dangerous.
Rattlesnake bites can be fatal to humans, so it’s important to be aware of them when you’re hiking or camping in their habitat. If you do come across a rattlesnake, the best thing to do is to give it a wide berth and leave it alone.
Prevention of Snakes in Your Home
There are several things you can do to prevent snakes from entering your home in the first place.
- Keep your yard clean and free of debris. Snakes like to hide in tall grass, thick shrubs, and piles of leaves or wood.
- Trim back any vegetation that touches the sides of your house.
- Seal any cracks or holes on the outside of your home, including gaps around pipes and wires.
- Use screens on vents and windows.
- Make sure your pet door is snake-proof.
- The best way to keep snakes out of your home is to remove their food source. If you have a rodent problem, get rid of the rodents.
Conclusion
Rattlesnakes are one of the most common types of snakes in Florida. They are found in a variety of habitats and can grow to be quite large. While they are generally shy animals, they can become dangerous if they feel threatened. If you encounter a rattlesnake, the best thing to do is to give it a wide berth and leave it alone. You can also take steps to prevent snakes from entering your home in the first place by keeping your yard clean and free of debris and trimming back any vegetation that touches the sides of your house.
Professional Snake Removal
If you have a snake in your home, it’s best to call a professional for help. Trying to get rid of garden snakes on your own can be dangerous, and it’s often difficult to tell if a snake is venomous or not.
At AAAC Wildlife Removal, our professionals have the experience and equipment necessary to safely and effectively remove snakes from your home. We will also take steps to snake-proof your home so you won’t have to worry about them coming back. Contact us today to learn more.
News originally from: https://www.wptv.com/news/treasure-coast/region-martin-county/martin-county-animal-control-officers-remove-diamondback-rattlesnake-from-residents-front-door
