A large, dark snake on your property can certainly cause alarm, but the term “black snake” in North America typically refers to non-venomous species like the Eastern Rat Snake or the Black Racer. These reptiles are generally beneficial to the environment, acting as natural pest control by managing rodent populations. Although they perform an important ecological function, homeowners often seek ways to prevent them from entering yards or buildings. This guide focuses on humane and lawful methods for identifying, preventing, and managing the presence of these common snakes effectively.
Identifying the Snake and Legal Restrictions
Confirming the snake’s identity is the primary step for both safety and legality. The two most common “black snakes” are the Black Racer (Coluber constrictor) and the Eastern Rat Snake (Pantherophis alleghaniensis). The Black Racer is a long, slender snake with smooth, matte black scales, known for its speed and tendency to flee quickly. The Eastern Rat Snake is heavier-bodied with keeled (ridged) scales, a loaf-like cross-section, and a glossy black appearance often including white on the chin and belly.
Harming or killing native wildlife, even non-venomous species, is often illegal under state and local regulations. Many non-venomous snakes are protected as “nongame” species, and violating these laws can result in misdemeanor charges or significant fines. Checking specific state wildlife codes is necessary before taking any action to avoid legal consequences. These protective laws exist because these snakes are valuable components of the ecosystem, controlling pests and serving as a food source for other animals.
Natural Predators and Environmental Dangers
Understanding the natural mortality factors of black snakes provides context for their population dynamics. In the wild, black snakes are preyed upon by several larger animals, including various raptors like hawks and owls. Mammalian carnivores, such as raccoons, foxes, and domestic cats, also prey on juvenile or smaller adult snakes. Certain other snakes, notably the Kingsnake, consume black snakes and other non-venomous species.
Snakes also face significant environmental dangers that contribute to mortality. They are vulnerable to vehicle strikes, especially when crossing roads to reach new habitats or basking on warm pavement. Severe weather events, such as prolonged droughts or sudden, deep freezes, can lead to death from dehydration or exposure. Habitat loss and fragmentation reduce available resources and suitable shelter, increasing their susceptibility to disease and predation.
Exclusion and Habitat Modification for Prevention
The most effective, long-term approach to preventing black snakes is making your property unattractive by eliminating their primary attractants: food and shelter. Snakes are drawn to areas with reliable food sources, mainly rodents, so controlling mice and rat populations is a priority. This involves removing spilled bird seed from feeders, securing trash cans with tight-fitting lids, and keeping pet food indoors.
Eliminating potential shelter sites is a powerful deterrent. These reptiles seek cool, dark, and damp places for resting and hiding from predators.
Shelter Removal
Homeowners should take the following steps to remove potential shelter:
- Clear away piles of wood, rock, and yard debris.
- Keep grass mowed short.
- Trim low-growing shrubs.
- Remove dense ground cover.
For physical barriers, sealing any opening larger than one-eighth of an inch in the foundation, around utility pipes, and under doors prevents snakes from entering structures. Installing specialized snake-proof fencing, constructed of fine mesh and buried a few inches into the ground, can also be effective around critical areas of the yard.
Safe and Humane Removal Options
If a black snake is present on the property, particularly inside a structure, safe and humane removal is the goal. For a snake found outdoors, leaving it alone is often the simplest action, as it will likely move on quickly, especially a fast-moving species like the Black Racer. If the snake is inside a garage or shed, opening doors and clearing a path encourages it to leave on its own. If the snake is in a living space, place a damp towel or burlap bag over it. This often attracts the snake as a hiding spot, allowing it to be carefully transferred to a container for release.
For homeowners who are uncomfortable handling the reptile or cannot safely identify it, contacting a licensed wildlife removal service is the best option. These professionals are trained to identify the species and perform a safe, humane relocation to an appropriate area away from the home.
It is strongly advised to avoid using poisons, as no toxicants are registered for snake control, and they can harm pets and non-target wildlife. Glue traps are also highly discouraged because they cause immense suffering. When the snake struggles, the traps tear skin and scales, often leading to a slow, painful death from exhaustion or injury.