Snake in Your Yard? A Bowling Green Homeowner's Guide to Snake Identification and Safety Tips

Finding a snake in your Bowling Green yard can be alarming, but understanding our local snake species and knowing how to respond safely is crucial for every Kentucky homeowner. As your local wildlife removal experts, we've created this comprehensive guide to help you identify common snakes and maintain your family's safety.

Common Snakes in Bowling Green, Kentucky

Our Briarwood and surrounding area wildlife teams frequently encounter these snake species:

• Black Rat Snake (Non-venomous)
• Copperhead (Venomous)
• Eastern Garter Snake (Non-venomous)
• Timber Rattlesnake (Venomous)
• Northern Water Snake (Non-venomous)

How to Identify Venomous Snakes

While most snakes in the Natcher Parkway North area are harmless, identifying venomous species is crucial:

• Triangle-shaped head
• Vertical pupils (like cat eyes)
• Rattle at tail end (rattlesnakes only)
• Thick, heavy body build

Prevention: Keep Snakes Away from Your Property

Just like our approach to rodent control, prevention is key for snake management:

• Remove brush and wood piles
• Keep grass short
• Seal foundation gaps
• Address rodent problems promptly

What to Do If You Encounter a Snake

If you spot a snake in your yard:

• Stay calm and slowly back away
• Keep children and pets inside
• Never attempt to handle or kill the snake
• Contact professional wildlife removal experts

Snake Safety Tips for Homeowners

As we discuss in our article about identifying wildlife in your home, being prepared is essential:

• Wear closed-toe shoes when gardening
• Use a flashlight when walking at night
• Keep your yard well-lit
• Maintain clear pathways around your home

When to Call Professional Help

While some wildlife situations can wait, snake encounters often require immediate attention. Our emergency wildlife removal service is available when you need fast, professional assistance.

You should call professionals if:

• You can't positively identify the snake
• The snake is in your home or garage
• You spot a venomous species
• You have recurring snake sightings

Local Snake Resources

Bowling Green residents can access these helpful resources:

• Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Department
• WKU Biology Department's Snake Identification Guide
• Local Emergency Services: 911
• Bowling Green KY Wildlife Control Pros: (866) 332-0501

Don't let snake concerns keep you from enjoying your property. If you spot a snake or want to make your yard less attractive to these reptiles, call Bowling Green KY Wildlife Control Pros at (866) 332-0501. Our trained professionals serve all Bowling Green areas, from Smiths Grove to downtown, providing swift, humane snake removal and prevention services.