Encountering a black snake near your home, while startling, is common across many regions of North America. The most frequently observed species, such as the Eastern Black Racer and the Black Rat Snake, are typically non-venomous and play a beneficial role in controlling local rodent populations. Understanding how to coexist involves recognizing them and knowing safe, non-lethal methods for both immediate removal and long-term property management. This approach ensures the safety of both residents and the snakes.
Identifying Common Black Snakes
The initial step in managing black snakes is confirming their identity. Two of the most widespread species are the Black Rat Snake and the Eastern Black Racer, both belonging to the Colubrid family of non-venomous snakes. Black Rat Snakes are generally heavy-bodied and can grow quite long, sometimes exceeding five feet, often exhibiting weakly keeled scales that give them a slightly rough texture. Conversely, the Eastern Black Racer is slender, exceptionally fast, and possesses smooth scales, typically displaying a uniform, matte black coloration from head to tail. Distinguishing these from venomous species involves noting the shape of the head; non-venomous snakes usually have a more rounded snout and pupils, unlike the triangular head and vertical pupils characteristic of pit vipers like copperheads. These black snakes are effective predators of mice, voles, and rats, making their presence a natural sign of a healthy ecosystem.
Safe and Humane Removal
When a black snake is sighted on the exterior of your property, non-intervention is often the most straightforward approach, allowing the snake to move along on its own. If immediate encouragement is needed, a gentle stream of water from a garden hose directed near the snake—not directly at it—can prompt it to leave the area without causing harm. Maintaining a distance of several feet during this process is important, as is observing where the snake exits the yard to identify potential hiding spots.
If a snake is found inside a structure, capture and release requires a direct, cautious approach. A simple method involves using a trash can or deep bucket and a long-handled broom. Carefully sweep or guide the snake into the container, which is then covered with a lid or cardboard to secure the animal.
For snakes in inaccessible areas, or if the homeowner is unsure of the species, contacting a local professional wildlife control service or animal removal expert is the safest course of action. Commercially available glue traps are discouraged as they can severely injure the reptile by tearing skin or scales upon removal. If a glue trap is used, the snake can be released by carefully applying a small amount of vegetable oil to the adhesive, which dissolves the glue without damaging the snake’s skin.
Modifying Your Property to Deter Snakes
Long-term prevention focuses on making the exterior environment less hospitable by eliminating shelter and food resources. Snakes seek cool, dark hiding places, making the removal of accumulated yard debris a primary step in deterrence. This involves clearing away wood piles, construction materials, large rock formations, and any overgrown vegetation that rests directly on the ground.
Keeping the lawn maintained is effective, as snakes prefer not to cross open areas where they are vulnerable to predators. Grass should be mowed to a short height, and dense, low-lying shrubs or ground cover plants near the foundation should be trimmed back or removed entirely. This adjustment eliminates the thermal cover and security snakes rely upon for resting and hunting.
Addressing the black snake’s primary motivation—food—is a powerful deterrent. Black Rat Snakes are drawn to areas with high populations of rodents, such as mice and rats. Controlling the rodent population through safe trapping or exclusion methods will significantly decrease the property’s attractiveness. Securing or removing bird feeders during peak snake season can be beneficial, as dropped seeds attract rodents. Additionally, eliminating sources of standing water, such as leaky outdoor spigots or uncovered pet water bowls, helps remove potential water sources that attract both the snakes and their prey.
Preventing Entry into Structures
Beyond managing the yard, structural modifications prevent snakes from entering the home, garage, or shed. Snakes can squeeze through any gap approximately one-quarter inch or wider. Inspecting the foundation for cracks, gaps, or poorly sealed utility entry points is a necessary step in creating a physical barrier.
All foundation vents, chimney openings, and exhaust ports should be secured with galvanized wire mesh screening, which is durable and resists rust and corrosion. The seals around garage doors, where rubber or vinyl weather stripping often deteriorates, must be checked. Replacing or installing new door sweeps on all exterior doors, including basement access points, ensures a tight seal against the threshold. Maintaining the structural integrity of the home acts as the final line of defense against unwanted entry.