Snakes are a common sight in many Knoxville backyards and gardens. While most species are harmless and even beneficial for controlling pest populations, their presence near living spaces understandably causes concern — especially when venomous species like copperheads are involved.
Why Snakes Come onto Your Property
Snakes are drawn to properties that provide food, shelter, and water:
- Abundant Prey: Snakes follow rodents. If you have a mouse or rat problem, snakes will follow.
- Shelter: Debris piles, tall grass, woodpiles, and rock formations provide ideal hiding and resting spots.
- Water Sources: Ponds, water features, or even damp areas from irrigation can attract snakes in dry conditions.
Identifying Venomous vs. Non-Venomous Snakes
Before taking any action, identify the snake if possible. Tennessee is home to several snake species — most are non-venomous. General guidelines:
- Non-Venomous: Typically round eyes, narrower head not significantly wider than the neck. Common examples: garter snakes, rat snakes, king snakes.
- Venomous: Triangular head significantly wider than the neck, slit pupils. Copperheads, cottonmouths, and timber rattlesnakes are found in Tennessee.
If you cannot positively identify the snake as non-venomous, treat it as venomous and call a professional.
Steps to Safely Remove a Non-Venomous Snake
- Stay Calm and Observe: Keep your distance. Many snakes passing through your yard will move on within hours if left alone.
- Clear the Area: Keep children and pets away while monitoring from a safe distance of at least six feet.
- Guide It Away: If you’re confident it’s non-venomous, use a long broom or stick to gently guide it toward an exit — a wooded area or brush away from your home.
- Call a Professional for Venomous Species: Never attempt to handle a venomous snake yourself. Wildlife removal professionals have the tools and training to do this safely.
How to Snake-Proof Your Property
- Eliminate food sources by controlling rodent populations — secure trash and eliminate bird feeders that attract mice.
- Remove hiding spots: keep grass mowed, clear debris piles, and stack firewood away from the house.
- Install fine-mesh snake fencing buried several inches underground around high-risk areas.
- Seal foundation cracks, gaps under doors, and any openings where snakes could enter the home.