Problems with snakes
 The Bay Area is home to many different species of snakes, including the gopher snake, kingsnake and rattlesnake. The only venomous snake in the Bay Area is the western rattlesnake; all other snakes are harmless. Snakes are beneficial because they eat many animals we consider pests such as mice and rats. |
Snake in building
Use a broom to gently herd the snake out of and away from the house or garage. Snakes do not like the feel of the bristles. A rattlesnake can only strike a distance of 1/2 the length of its body, so a broom will keep you far enough away for safety. Snakes do not prefer to be in buildings, but often follow the scent of a rodent in, or are attracted by a cool location on a hot day. Plug openings in foundation. |
Snakes not wanted in yard
Since snakes primarily feed on rodents, make your home and yard rodent-free. Alteration of the habitat will be the most successful way to reduce rodents. Keep leaf litter, lumber, trash and rock piles to minimum to reduce hiding places for rodents and snakes. Snakes in this area do not climb nor dig, so installing a tight-fitting fence can keep snakes off your property. The fence should be 3' high and buried into the ground at least a couple of inches. |
Fear of rattlesnakes
Gopher snakes are often misidentified as rattlesnakes. A gopher snake has a pointed tail; a rattlesnake will have rattles on its tail, or if it is young it may have a rounded tail, but will never have a pointed tail. Gopher snakes, especially when young, mimic the rattlesnake as a defense. Rattlesnakes do not attack people and strike only in defense. Rattlesnakes in the Bay Area are not aggressive and will retreat from noise and vibration. Your footsteps give the snake warning of your presence so it has a chance to move away. When in the outdoors, step on logs, not over them, don't lift stones or logs by placing hands or fingers under them; use a stick. In grassy or brushy areas, stay on the trail or in clearings. If you hear a rattlesnake, don't move until you know where the sound is coming from, then give the snake a wide berth. Wear closed-toe shoes and long pants when hiking. Wear sunglasses in bright areas to be able to see the snakes better. |
Rattlesnake bite
Most rattlesnake bites are not fatal. If bitten, stay calm and stationary. Call 911. Don't make an X-shaped incision or suck the venom out, don't pack the wound with ice, and don't apply a tourniquet. |
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