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Meet Your Snake Neighbors
Massachusetts is home to 14 species of snakes, and almost every one you meet is completely harmless. Get to know who’s living in your neighborhood, what to do when you find one, and why there’s much less to fear than you think.
Give It Space
Wild snakes want nothing to do with us. In fact, they are typically terrified. Imagine a giant standing over you and all you can do is slither! Stay back, keep pets away, and give it room to leave.
So, you found a snake. Now what?
Seeing a snake close to home can be startling. Even I jump sometimes! The good news? In most cases, the best thing you can do is simply give it some space.
Let It Move Along
If the snake is outdoors and not in any danger, the safest choice is to leave it alone.
Don't Relocate It
Moving a snake far from where it was found can put it at risk. Massachusetts law prohibits capturing and relocating wildlife off your property. Not sure what to do? Contact The Gentle Wild for guidance.
Probably not. Of Massachusetts’ 14 native snake species, only two are venomous. Encounters with either are incredibly rare.
Timber Rattlesnake
Venomous
Endangered in Massachusetts
Rare and secretive, they are found only in a few isolated areas of the state. Give one plenty of space and never attempt to handle or move it.
Is This Snake Dangerous?
Copperhead
Venomous
Endangered in Massachusetts
Extremely rare in Massachusetts and limited to a small part of the state. Its hourglass-shaped bands help distinguish it from harmless species.
Not Sure What Snake You Found?
You don’t have to figure it out alone. Send me a clear photo and I’ll help you identify your visitor and learn a little more about the snake sharing your space.
Natural Pest Control
Snakes help keep populations of mice, rats, and other small animals in check.
Why Snakes Deserve a Little Love
Snakes aren’t out to get us. In fact, they’re quietly doing some pretty important work right in our own backyards.
Part of the Food Web
Snakes are both predator and prey, making them an important part of a healthy ecosystem.
Good Neighbors
Snakes are quiet, shy, and more than happy to avoid us if they can.
Afraid of Snakes? I Get It.
Fear can make every snake feel dangerous. Learning what snakes actually do, how they behave, and how they want nothing to do with us can change that fear surprisingly fast.
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