Snakes In North Texas During Summer Months

It’s going to be hot. For some, it’s going to be a time to blast the air conditioning while others enjoy countless hours outside. Summer is around the corner and humans aren’t the only ones who enjoy a warmer climate. Our cold-blooded neighbors are more active in the warmer months, leading to more encounters with people. 

Here a few things to keep in mind when dealing with snakes in North Texas:

How Many Types of Snakes Exist in Texas? 

Texas is home to a diverse array of snake species, with habitats ranging from deserts and grasslands to forests and wetlands. There are approximately 115 species and subspecies of snakes found in Texas, making it one of the most snake-rich states in the United States.

Are Snakes Typically Aggressive Toward Humans?

Short answer: snakes are not aggressive toward humans unless they feel threatened or provoked. Snakes will prefer to avoid encounters with humans altogether. A snake might respond defensively by hissing, striking, or biting if it feels cornered, startled, or otherwise threatened. In order to prevent any possible conflict, it is recommended to give snakes space and refrain from handling or disturbing them.

What are Common Venomous Snakes in Texas?

Copperheads, cottonmouths, coral snakes, and rattlesnakes are the four most common venomous snakes found in Texas. Copperheads can be identified by their chestnut or reddish-brown crossbands lining their scales from which they get their name. These venomous snakes like rocky areas and wooded terrain where they can utilize their natural camouflage.These venomous snakes can be as long as three and half feet long. If bitten in or close to home, it is encouraged to get treated quickly and notify DFW Wildlife for humane and effective removal of the snake. 

Cottonmouths are known to be darker snakes, often dark-brown, olive-brown, or jet black with white tissue lining the inside of the mouth. They have wide bands across their scales and cottonmouth snakes thrive in swamps and marshes typically found in the eastern half of Texas. The primary purpose of the strong venom that these snakes possess is to immobilize their food – such as fish, amphibians, small mammals, and birds – before ingesting. 

Coral snakes are known for their brightly colored bands or rings that encircle their bodies, which are typically  red, yellow, and black. The specific color pattern can vary depending on the species and region. The average length of a coral snake is between 16 to 63 inches. Coral snakes prefer to be underground, buried under foliage, or beneath leaf litter because they are naturally shy and solitary. These venomous snakes are nocturnal, meaning they are most active during the night or twilight hours.

Rattlesnakes, most known for the rattle they emanate from their tail to ward off predators, dwell in a range of habitats, including deserts, forests, and marshes. Comfortable in yards and forests near homes, it is strongly recommended to give them space and admire from afar. These venomous snakes will not attack unless provoked or threatened. Rattlesnakes play a crucial role in the ecosystem and actually assist in managing rodent populations near residential areas by preying on mostly small mammals such as mice, rats, rabbits, and ground squirrels. They use their venom to immobilize and digest their prey before consuming it. Bites from rattlesnakes can be serious and perhaps fatal if not promptly treated with antivenom.

If a Snake is Found, Does That Mean There Are More Nearby? 

Finding one snake doesn’t necessarily mean there are more nearby, but it’s possible. Like other species, snakes can be solitary creatures and may not necessarily live in groups or colonies. However, some environments or conditions may attract multiple snakes.

For example, if you find a snake near a suitable food source, such as frogs or rats, there may be more snakes in the area drawn by the same food source. Additionally, snakes may gather in areas with suitable shelter, such as rock piles, brush piles, or other hiding spots.

It’s important to stay alert and aware of your surroundings if you come across a snake. While there may not be more snakes nearby, it’s always a good idea to be aware of the possibility and take appropriate precautions.

When To Call Wildlife Control Services

Recognizing the symptoms of snake behavior and knowing when to seek professional help is critical for homeowners dealing with snake difficulties. Consider contacting wildlife control services if you see the following indicators:

1. Frequent sightings of snakes on your property, particularly during daylight hours.
2. Signs of snake damage to home or infestation, such as damaged walls, broken insulation, shed skin, fecal matter, musky odor, or hissing sound.
3. Unable to dissuade snakes using preventive measures or do-it-yourself solutions.

By hiring the help of wildlife management professionals, homeowners may successfully and safely treat snake infestations, limiting property damage and lowering dangers to human health and safety. Wildlife management services may remove raccoons in a humane manner, apply exclusion measures to prevent re-entry, and advise on habitat restoration and preventive methods to reduce future incidents.

Ultimately, summer in North Texas results in increased snake activity as these adaptive reptiles emerge from their winter hibernation in search of food, mates, and nesting locations. Knowing when to contact wildlife control services is critical for resolving snake-related concerns quickly and effectively, promoting peaceful cohabitation between humans and wildlife in urban and suburban settings.

Are you in need of snake removal? Our friendly operators at Dallas Fort Worth Wildlife Control are available now at (817) 606-7607. Find out more about our wildlife removal in Arlington and Fort Worth, TX.