Differentiating Venomous and Poisonous Snakes

Because snakes vary so widely in appearance, it can be difficult to identify snakes accurately. With that in mind, here are some quick ways to determine whether you have a venomous or nonvenomous snake in your yard:

Venomous Snakes

• Triangular heads (although some nonvenomous snakes adopt this appearance to intimidate predators)
• Thin, vertical pupils in yellow or green eyes
• Color varies widely

Nonvenomous Snakes

• Rounded or spoon-shaped heads
• Rounded pupils
• Color varies widely

How to Keep Snakes Away

To keep snakes from coming back, follow these prevention tips:

• Replace grass or mulch with gravel.Snakes can’t move or hide easily on gravel and other hard surfaces.
• Remove bird feeders, birdbaths, and other sources of food and water. Food and water sources attract snakes and their prey – mice, rats, and insects.
• Keep pet food inside.Feed pets indoors to deter rodents and snakes from gathering outdoors around an easy food source.
• Trim bushes and trees.This keeps snakes from climbing trees or using your landscaping as shelter.
• Reconsider water features. While ponds or fountains are beautiful landscaping elements, they can also attract snakes to your yard or garden and provide nice secret hiding places.
• Install snake-proof fencing. Thin fencing that sits just above or below ground is an effective way to keep snakes and small creatures from entering your property through multiple entry points.