Snake Removal CT

Connecticut, home to a variety of snake species, both venomous and non-venomous, provides unique habitats for these reptiles. This list includes common species you may encounter in and around your Connecticut home or business:

1. Eastern Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis sirtalis)
2. Eastern Ribbon Snake (Thamnophis sauritus sauritus)
3. Northern Water Snake (Nerodia sipedon sipedon)
4. Ring-necked Snake (Diadophis punctatus edwardsii)
5. Smooth Green Snake (Opheodrys vernalis)
6. Northern Black Racer (Coluber constrictor constrictor)
7. Eastern Hognose Snake (Heterodon platirhinos)
8. Eastern Milk Snake (Lampropeltis triangulum triangulum)
9. Black Rat Snake (Pantherophis obsoletus)

Connecticut also has two venomous snake species:

1. Northern Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix mokasen)
2. Timber Rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus)

Snakes play important roles in ecosystems, controlling rodent and small animal populations. Observe from a distance and avoid disturbing them. Killing or harming snakes is illegal in many areas, and respecting wildlife and their habitats is crucial.

Black Rat Snakes in Attics and on Roofs

Black Rat Snakes (Pantherophis obsoletus), also known as Eastern Rat Snakes, are non-venomous and among North America’s longest snakes, reaching up to 6-7 feet. As constrictors, they primarily feed on rodents, birds, and bird eggs. They’re skilled climbers and often found in trees or elevated areas. In Connecticut, Black Rat Snakes sometimes enter homes and businesses, typically those with significant mouse problems. In Connecticut, it is not legal to relocate Black Rat Snakes off the property. This regulation is in place because these snakes are highly effective at controlling rodent populations. Furthermore, Black Rat Snakes are familiar with their hibernation spots, and moving them out of their territory can be detrimental to their survival, possibly resulting in a death sentence. It is essential to respect and protect these snakes, as they play a vital role in maintaining the ecosystem’s balance.

Snakes Commonly Found in Basements

Several snake species might be found in Connecticut basements, including:

1. Eastern Milk Snake (Lampropeltis triangulum triangulum)
2. Ring-necked Snake (Diadophis punctatus edwardsii)
3. Eastern Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis sirtalis)
4. Northern Brown Snake (Storeria dekayi dekayi)
5. Black Rat Snake (Pantherophis obsoletus)

These snakes may enter basements seeking shelter or food sources, such as rodents. If you encounter a snake in your basement, it’s essential to maintain a safe distance and avoid causing harm.

Milk Snake Removed from a CT basement.

Eastern Milk Snake (Lampropeltis triangulum triangulum)

The Eastern Milk Snake is a non-venomous species commonly found in Connecticut. They have a distinctive appearance with a light gray or tan base color, which is covered in reddish-brown blotches bordered by black. Eastern Milk Snakes are medium-sized, typically reaching lengths of 24-36 inches.

Eastern Milk Snakes are nocturnal and can be found in a variety of habitats, such as fields, meadows, forests, and farmland. They often seek shelter under rocks, logs, or other debris. Their diet mainly consists of rodents, small mammals, birds, and bird eggs, which they subdue by constriction.

Milk snakes are known to be good climbers, and they occasionally enter barns and other structures to hunt for rodents. Their name “Milk Snake” comes from the old misconception that they would drink milk from cows. In reality, they were attracted to barns and farmhouses because of the rodents that were attracted to stored grains and feed.

Although Eastern Milk Snakes are not dangerous to humans, they can be mistaken for venomous species like the Northern Copperhead due to their similar color patterns. If you encounter an Eastern Milk Snake, it is best to observe it from a safe distance and avoid disturbing it. Like other snake species, they play a crucial role in controlling rodent populations and maintaining a balanced ecosystem.

Find a Snake in Your Garage?

In Connecticut, several snake species may be found in garages, attracted by the shelter and potential food sources.

There are a few reasons why snakes may be found in garages:

1. Shelter: Garages provide a protected space for snakes to hide, rest, or escape from predators and harsh weather conditions. They may also seek shelter in garages when searching for a place to lay eggs or give birth, as the environment can be relatively stable and secure.
2. Food sources: Snakes are attracted to areas with abundant food sources. Garages often harbor insects, rodents, and other small animals that snakes prey upon. As such, if your garage has a rodent problem, it might inadvertently attract snakes in search of a meal.
3. Warmth: Snakes are ectothermic animals, meaning they rely on external sources to regulate their body temperature. Garages, especially those with concrete floors, can retain heat from the sun, making them attractive to snakes seeking warmth.

To minimize the chances of snakes entering your garage, take the following precautions:

1. Seal any gaps or cracks around doors, windows, and the foundation of the garage.
2. Keep the garage clean and clutter-free, reducing hiding spots for snakes and their prey.
3. Control rodent populations by using traps or other pest control methods.
4. Remove potential snake habitats from around the garage, such as piles of wood, debris, or tall grass.

If you do encounter a snake in your garage, it’s important to maintain a safe distance and avoid causing harm. Most snakes in Connecticut are non-venomous and pose no threat to humans, but it’s best to err on the side of caution and let them leave the area on their own or contact a professional to handle the situation. RF Wildlife 860-510-6313