When it comes to snake removal, it is extremely difficult to tell the difference between venomous and nonvenomous snakes for those not educated in professional wildlife management and identification techniques. So the safest option for proper snake removal is to let the experienced professionals at Triangle Wildlife Removal & Pest Control Inc. help with removal and control when you spot one slithering through the yard, crawl spaces, or curling up under the porch steps.
As a trusted Raleigh, NC snake removal company, we understand that encountering a snake on your property can be alarming. Whether you live near wooded areas like Umstead State Park or along waterways such as Crabtree Creek and the Neuse River, snakes are a natural part of North Carolina’s ecosystem. However, when they enter homes, garages, or yards where people and pets are present, professional removal becomes necessary.
Snake Species Common to the Raleigh Area
Our Raleigh, NC snake removal company handles all snake species found throughout Wake County, including:
Venomous Snakes
- Copperhead snakes (most common venomous species in the Triangle)
- Cottonmouth snakes (water moccasins)
- Rattlesnakes (timber rattlesnakes in wooded areas)
Non-Venomous Snakes
- Rat snakes (black rat snakes are very common)
- King snakes
- Garter snakes
- Water snakes (often mistaken for cottonmouths)
- Gopher snakes
North Carolina is home to 37 native snake species, with only six being venomous. The copperhead is by far the most commonly encountered venomous snake in the Raleigh area, particularly in neighborhoods backing up to wooded areas and creek corridors.
Understanding Venomous vs. Non-Venomous Snakes
Copperheads are the most frequently encountered venomous snake in Wake County. These snakes have distinctive hourglass-shaped bands that are wider on the sides and narrow at the center. They are typically found in wooded areas, rock piles, and near water sources. Properties in neighborhoods like North Hills, Brier Creek, and areas along the greenway systems commonly report copperhead sightings, especially during spring and fall when these snakes are most active.
According to the CDC, copperhead bites rarely result in death but do require medical attention. These snakes are not aggressive but will defend themselves if accidentally stepped on or cornered.
Non-Venomous Snakes
Most snakes encountered in Raleigh are non-venomous. Black rat snakes are especially common and are actually beneficial because they control rodent populations. These large snakes can grow over 6 feet long and are often found in attics, barns, and outbuildings where they hunt for mice and rats. While harmless, their size can be startling to homeowners.
Water snakes are frequently mistaken for cottonmouths. These non-venomous snakes are common around Lake Johnson, Falls Lake, and other water bodies throughout the Triangle. Learning to identify the difference between water snakes and cottonmouths is important but should be left to professionals.
Snake Removal Service Areas in the Triangle
Our Raleigh, NC snake removal company provides professional services throughout Wake County and surrounding areas:
We serve properties along major corridors including I-40, I-440, Highway 70, and Capital Boulevard. Areas near natural habitats like Umstead State Park, Crabtree Creek greenways, Lake Johnson, and the Neuse River Trail experience higher snake activity due to the proximity of natural environments where snakes live and hunt.
Our Snake Removal Process
Step 1: Safe Snake Identification
Snake removal should only be attempted by professionals who can recognize the type of snake and determine whether it is venomous or not. Our trained technicians can identify all snake species found in North Carolina and know the appropriate handling methods for each. This identification is critical for safe removal and helps us provide accurate information about the snake you encountered.
Step 2: Humane Snake Removal
The experts at Triangle Wildlife Removal & Pest Control Inc. use humane methods to capture and remove snakes from your property. For venomous snakes, we use specialized equipment that keeps both our technicians and the snake safe during the removal process. Once captured, snakes are relocated to suitable habitats away from residential areas, following North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission guidelines.
Step 3: Property Inspection
After removing the snake, we conduct a thorough inspection of your property to identify conditions that may attract snakes. This includes looking for rodent activity (which draws snakes looking for food), checking for hiding places like wood piles and rock displays, examining foundations for gaps and cracks, and assessing the overall habitat around your home.
Step 4: Snake Exclusion Services
Our wildlife management approach includes modifying your environment in ways that deter snakes. Snake exclusion involves:
- Sealing cracks and gaps in foundations where snakes can enter
- Repairing broken basement windows and door gaps
- Installing proper door sweeps on garage doors and exterior doors
- Screening crawl space vents with appropriate mesh
- Addressing gaps around utility line entry points
Properties in older Raleigh neighborhoods like Cameron Park, Boylan Heights, and the Oakwood Historic District often require more extensive exclusion work due to aging construction and foundation settling that creates entry points.
Step 5: Habitat Modification Recommendations
We provide guidance on making your property less attractive to snakes:
- Keep grass cut short (snakes prefer tall grass and overgrown areas)
- Maintain neat flower beds and gardens
- Remove or relocate wood piles away from structures
- Eliminate rock piles and debris where snakes can hide
- Control rodent populations (snakes follow food sources)
- Trim vegetation away from foundations
- Remove bird feeders that attract rodents which in turn attract snakes
When Are Snakes Most Active in Raleigh?
Understanding snake activity patterns helps homeowners know when to be most vigilant:
Spring (March-May): This is peak activity time as snakes emerge from winter dormancy. Copperheads and other species are frequently seen as they search for food and mates. Properties near wooded areas and creek corridors see increased snake activity during these months.
Summer (June-August): Snakes remain active but may be less visible during the hottest part of the day. They are often found in shaded areas, under porches, in crawl spaces, and near water sources where they hunt for frogs, rodents, and other prey.
Fall (September-November): Another peak activity period as snakes prepare for winter. Copperheads, in particular, are commonly encountered in fall as they search for suitable overwintering sites.
Winter (December-February): Most snake activity decreases dramatically. However, on warmer winter days, snakes may emerge from hibernation sites. Snakes that have entered attics or crawl spaces for warmth may remain active throughout winter.
Why Snakes Enter Your Property
Several factors attract snakes to residential areas in Raleigh:
Rodent Populations: The primary reason snakes enter yards and buildings is the presence of mice, rats, chipmunks, and other prey animals. If you have rodent activity, you are more likely to see snakes.
Water Sources: Properties near Walnut Creek, Rocky Branch Creek, Swift Creek, and other waterways naturally have more snake activity. Even small water features like koi ponds and bird baths can attract snakes.
Cover and Shelter: Wood piles, rock gardens, overgrown vegetation, tarps, stored items, and debris provide ideal hiding spots for snakes. Gaps under decks, sheds, and porches also serve as attractive shelter.
Temperature Regulation: Concrete driveways, stone pathways, and sun-warmed rocks attract snakes for basking. Conversely, cool crawl spaces and basements attract snakes during hot summer months.
What to Do If You Encounter a Snake
If you find a snake on your property:
- Keep your distance: Stay at least 6 feet away from any snake
- Do not attempt to catch or kill it: Even “dead” snakes can deliver bites through reflex action
- Keep pets and children away: Restrict access to the area
- Call professionals: Contact our Raleigh, NC snake removal company immediately
- Monitor from a distance: If safe to do so, keep an eye on the snake’s location until help arrives
Never attempt to handle any snake unless you are 100% certain of its species and have proper training. Even non-venomous snake bites can cause injury and infection.
Why Choose Our Raleigh, NC Snake Removal Company
With more than two decades of experience in professional wildlife control service, Triangle Wildlife Removal & Pest Control Inc. provides quality snake removal services throughout North Carolina. Our technicians have extensive training in snake identification, behavior, and safe removal techniques specific to North Carolina species.
Quick Response Times
We understand that snake encounters can be frightening. Our team responds quickly to snake removal calls throughout the Triangle area. We serve Raleigh NC, Garner NC, Cary NC, Durham NC, Chapel Hill NC, and surrounding communities within 150 miles.
Comprehensive Wildlife Solutions
While we specialize in snake removal, we also address the underlying conditions that attract snakes. By controlling rodent populations, sealing entry points, and modifying habitats, we provide long-term solutions that reduce the likelihood of future snake encounters.
Licensed and Experienced Professionals
Our team is licensed and trained to handle all wildlife situations safely and in compliance with North Carolina wildlife regulations. We stay current on best practices for snake removal and habitat management.
Contact Us for Professional Snake Removal
If you have a snake problem near Raleigh NC, Garner NC, Cary NC, Durham NC or Chapel Hill NC, please contact our licensed team of professionals. Our Raleigh, NC snake removal company is ready to help with safe, humane snake removal and exclusion services.
Call Triangle Wildlife Removal & Pest Control Inc. at (919) 661-0722 for immediate assistance with snake removal anywhere in the Triangle area.
