To kill – or not to kill? S-S-SNAKES

By Sheila Cubick

Ohio certified volunteer naturalist

The only answer is – NOT to kill.

How do you react when you unexpectedly come across a snake in your yard or garden? Do you scream, run, or try to kill it?

Or do you step back and observe the snake or even whip out your phone to photograph its beauty?

Snakes are a universal symbol in the human psyche.

They show up in creation myths around the world as symbols of both good and evil, creation and destruction.

Humans have a predisposition to notice and be wary of snakes because of their potential threat, but not to automatically fear them.

Fear of snakes is a learned response.

As we move into autumn and the days are warm, but the evenings and mornings are cool, we sometimes encounter snakes in unexpected places around our homes.

Snakes can’t regulate their body temperatures so they look for places that are warm to bask.

They may shelter in rock piles, brush piles, under boards or in a garage.

The snakes may have used these spaces all summer, but are more noticeable as they are sluggish and moving slowly in the chilly temperatures.

A snake, like any animal, will live in a place that meets its needs for food, water, shelter and space.

If a snake is living near your home, it has probably found a steady food supply.

Most snakes eat toads, frogs, smaller snakes, bird eggs, rodents, slugs, earthworms, insects and spiders.

Barns and garages often store pet food, which attracts rodents. Snakes are often drawn to these areas with large mouse populations.

There are only three poisonous snakes in Ohio.

Only the Eastern Massasauga is found in the glaciated part of the state and is endangered in Ohio.

Therefore, it is extremely unlikely that any snake you encounter will be poisonous.

Most snakes will be still or retreat if they encounter a human.

However, if they are cornered and feel threatened, they will often shake their tails and lurch toward the threat to scare it away.

Even nonpoisonous snakes may bite to protect themselves.

The best advice during an encounter is to leave it alone and let the snake go.

To reduce the chance of meeting this beautiful creature, eliminate potential food sources.

Place pet food in securely sealed containers to discourage mice and seal any holes in houses, garages and barns.

Construct any pond or water feature as far from your home as you can.

If you still discover a snake that needs removed from your home, call the Ohio Department of Natural Resources at the Northeast Ohio office (330-644-229) before attempting to remove it yourself.

Snakes are beautiful and fascinating animals that hold a valuable place in the environment.

Embrace their unique characteristics.

They would rather flee than fight.

Copy their example when you meet one unexpectedly.

For photos to identify snakes and details on specific species, go to: http://go.osu.edu/findwildlife.