Snakes are carnivorous reptiles characterized by long legless bodies. The majority of snakes are non-venomous but Alabama is home to a few venomous species.

Characteristics

• All snakes are carnivores and hunt for their food
• Like all reptiles, snakes are cold-blooded and less active during colder months
• Only 6 snakes in Alabama are considered venomous, although there are many imitators

There are over 3,400 species of snakes. Individual species vary widely, but all snakes are carnivorous, lack legs, and are covered in scales. Most snakes are nonvenomous and are not a threat to humans, while some species are capable of delivering fatal bites.  Snakes serve an important role by controlling pest populations, but many people prefer not to have them near their home or business.

At Horizons Pest Control, we utilize a proven system of snake control by creating an invisible barrier around your yard. This is achieved by scattering snake repelling granules around the perimeter of your yard that snakes will not cross. This product is non-poisonous and is safe to use around children and pets.

Identifying Venomous Snakes

Determining between nonvenomous and venomous snakes can be difficult. Any dangerous animal will have several imitators trying to live off their reputation. Often times the differences can only be noticed upon close observation, and approaching an unknown snake is not recommended. All snakes should be treated with respect and be given plenty of space. If there is any question of the identity of a snake, please call a pest control professional. There are two types of venomous snakes in Alabama, pit vipers and the coral snake.

 Pit Vipers

Pit vipers includes rattlesnakes, water moccasins, and copperheads. They are named for the pits on their head that they use to locate warm blooded prey. These snakes are larger-bodied and can release large amounts of venom in a single bite. They share certain characteristics such as:

• A triangular head with a relatively narrow neck
• Pits that are located between the eyes and nostrils
• Slit shaped pupils like a cat, instead of round

Coral Snake

The other venomous snake is the coral snake. Its venom is extremely dangerous but this snake has a poor delivery method and has to literally chew on an attacker to release venom. The eastern coral snake is a red, yellow, and black striped snake that has many imitators. However remembering the phrase “Red touch black, you’re OK Jack. Red touch yellow, you’re dead fellow” will help you determine between a coral snake and its many imitators like the scarlet snake. If the red section of the snake touches the yellow stripes, then its a coral snake. If the red sections touch the black stripes, then its a harmless imitator.