Snakes In My Basement What To Do : Basedhomed

Snakes in My Basement: What to Do

Discovering a snake in your basement can be a frightening experience. These slithering creatures can evoke feelings of fear and disgust, and the thought of them lurking in the dark, damp spaces beneath your home can be unsettling. While snakes are often misunderstood and feared, it's crucial to remain calm and take appropriate steps to address the situation. This article will provide guidance on how to identify the snake, assess the situation, and effectively remove or deter the snake from your basement.

1. Identifying the Snake

The first step in dealing with a snake in your basement is to identify it. This will help determine whether the species is venomous or non-venomous and guide your actions. Observe the snake's physical characteristics closely, such as its size, color, pattern, and shape of its head. If possible, take a picture or video to aid in identification. Consult a field guide, snake identification app, or contact a local herpetologist or wildlife control professional.

Knowing the species of snake will allow you to understand its behavior and potential risks. For instance, some snakes are more aggressive than others, while some are more likely to bite if threatened. Once you have identified the snake, you can proceed with the appropriate course of action.

2. Assessing the Situation

After identifying the snake, it's essential to assess the situation and evaluate the potential risks. Consider factors such as: *

The snake's behavior:

Is the snake aggressive or timid? Is it actively moving around or hiding? *

Access to the basement:

Is your basement easily accessible, or does the snake have a way of getting into the house? *

Presence of children or pets:

Are there vulnerable individuals or animals that could be at risk? *

Your comfort level:

Do you feel comfortable handling the situation yourself, or would you prefer professional help?

If the snake is showing signs of aggression, or if you are uncomfortable dealing with it yourself, contacting a professional wildlife removal service is the safest course of action. Professionals have the experience and equipment to safely capture and remove the snake from your property.

3. Snake Removal or Deterrence

If you decide to attempt snake removal yourself, you will need to use caution and prioritize safety. Here are some tips: *

Keep a safe distance:

Avoid approaching the snake directly. Stand back and observe its movements from a safe distance. *

Create a safe space:

If possible, gently guide the snake into a container using a broom or a long stick. Place a lid over the container to prevent the snake from escaping. *

Use a snake removal tool:

Specialized tools designed for snake capture, such as tongs or a hook, can be helpful for safely catching the snake without risking a bite. *

Consider a snake trap:

If you are not comfortable with direct capture, you can use a snake trap. These traps are designed to humanely capture snakes without harming them.

Once the snake is captured or removed, it's important to address why it invaded your basement in the first place. This may involve sealing up any potential entry points, such as cracks in the foundation, gaps in the windows, or holes in the walls. Removing potential food sources, like rodents or insects, can also deter snakes.

Prevention is key to keeping snakes out of your basement. Maintaining a clean and tidy basement, eliminating potential food sources, and sealing up entry points can help reduce the chances of snakes finding their way into your living spaces. However, if you find yourself dealing with snakes in your basement, remember to prioritize safety and seek professional assistance if needed.