Snake Removal & Control
Ophidiophobia — fear of snakes — is one of the most widespread phobias in the world, and if you live in Missouri, you are not entirely without reason to be cautious. There are 49 snake species and subspecies in the state, many of which you may encounter around your home. Most are completely harmless, but five are venomous. Interestingly, those five all belong to the same family: Crotalidae, commonly called pit vipers. They are identified by their triangular heads, vertical pupils, heat-sensing pits between the nostril and eye, and several other distinct features.
The Pit Vipers of Missouri
- Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake — Gray or light brown with large, light-edged spots on the back. The belly is marbled dark gray and black with a narrow white stripe on the head.
- Osage Copperhead — Pink or orangish with hourglass-shaped crossbands that may be brown, reddish-brown, or gray. Adults average 2 to 3 feet — the most common on this list in Missouri.
- Pygmy Rattlesnake — Smaller, averaging about 20 inches in adulthood. Has a red, orange, or dark dorsal stripe and a rattleon its tail that only develops after molting — this one sounds more like a buzzing insect than a rattlesnake.
- Timber Rattlesnake — Pinkish, tan, or gray with chevron-shaped crossbands. Has a black tail and can reach 5 feet in length.
- Western Cottonmouth — Dark-toned with a dorsal pattern that may appear nearly solid black with age. Aquatic and found near water — also called water moccasins — they sometimes come onto land.
What Attracts Snakes to Your Home
Snakes are drawn to dark, damp, cluttered, low-lying areas with good hiding spots — basements, garages, attics, crawlspaces, and woodpiles all qualify. They follow their food supply: if you have tall grass, brush, compost piles, rocky areas, water sources, or accessible food like bird feeders and pet food nearby, snakes will find you. It is illegal to kill snakes in Missouri unless you are under direct attack — they are an important part of the ecosystem.
What To Do If You See a Snake or Get Bitten
Back away slowly and calmly if you come across one. If you are bitten, stay calm, keep the bite below heart level, and do not cut the bite, try to suck out venom, apply a tourniquet, or clean the bite with ice. Seek immediate medical attention and call 911 if needed. Try to note what the snake looked like without attempting to catch it.
Professional Snake Removal
If you have discovered a snake in or around your home, do not try to wrangle it yourself. Contact Advanced Wildlife Control — the top-rated professional in Missouri for snake removal. We handle it swiftly, humanely, and can help you modify your property to minimize future conflicts.