Environmental Consultants, Environmental Consulting Firm, Environmental Services, Inc.

It’s post-summer in Florida, and there is no shortage of wildlife.

Peninsular Florida spans from temperate to subtropical zones, which in combination with its unique geologic features and climate results in not only tremendous habitat diversity, but also a diverse array of plant and animal species, many found nowhere else in the world. Florida is home to nearly 700 vertebrate species (reptiles, amphibians, birds and mammals), more than 30,000 invertebrates (crustaceans, insects, spiders, etc.) and over 2800 native plants. These habitats and the species that they support are partly what makes Florida….well, Florida. However, some of these plants and animals are not always welcomed with open arms.

Clearly, as Florida continues to grow and develop, encounters with wildlife become more frequent. In most cases, wildlife seeks to avoid contact with humans and their human environments. Encounters are generally infrequent, unexpected and brief. Wildlife found in urban or suburban settings result from wildlife exploiting suitable, artificially created habitat (places to rest, hide or nest), food sources, or they are simply moving through, on a transient basis, to “greener pastures."

Snakes seem to illicit more fear and loathing than any other wildlife, often resulting in pronounced reactions. There are 45 native species of snakes found in Florida, of which only 6 are characterized as venomous – canebrake rattlesnake, diamond-back rattlesnake, dusky pygmy rattlesnake, copperhead moccasin, cottonmouth moccasin and coral snake. These snakes can be found in virtually every natural vegetative community in Florida, and yes, at times although infrequent, in recreational, residential, commercial and retail settings.
Most snakes encountered in residential areas are non-venomous and are simply trying to eke out a living in what they would consider suboptimal habitat, or are simply passing through. Snakes face a host of dangers in the neighborhoods including dogs, cats, lawn mowers and vehicles. Despite the usual negative connotation, snakes are generally beneficial in the environment. All snakes are “carnivores” (they eat meat), and as such they catch and eat mice, rats and other snakes, including venomous snakes, so snakes can be a good thing. However, regardless of whether they are venomous or non-venomous, snakes are best observed from a distance. They all possess sharp teeth and if abruptly disturbed or provoked can inflict a nasty bite.

Here are steps that you can take if you encounter an “unwanted” snake, or wish to control snakes in your neighborhood.

Modification of the environment: If the snake is not just “passing through”, it probably has found something desirable in the neighborhood. This can include places to hide or things to eat. To discourage snakes you should mow tall grass, keep trees and overgrown shrubs trimmed and eliminate piles of logs, brush, leaves, debris, rocks or construction materials where snakes may hide. Also, be aware that these piles of debris and bird seed at bird feeders, or pet foods can attract rodents, which in turn attract snakes. Limit the availability of these shelters and potential food sources. Putting up silt fencing or other types of fences around the property perimeter can be effective, but can also be expensive. A two-foot high silt fence creates an effective barrier in most cases, but the fencing should be trenched (buried approximately 6 inches in to the ground) to prevent snakes from going under the fencing. Snakes generally will not climb over the fencing.

Trapping and Removal: It is best not to provoke or attempt to handle any snake that you cannot identify – it may be a venomous snake. When disturbed snakes will most frequently “run for cover”, so it is best not to get between them and a potential place to hide.  Snakes that are cornered will often become defensive and attempt to strike, whether they are venomous or non-venomous. If it is not possible to just leave the snake alone, and it poses a safety risk, removal may be the only solution. Removal is best left to a professional wildlife trapper, licensed to humanely and safely remove and relocate the snake. Do not take unnecessary risks. The majority of those bitten by snakes were bitten purposely handling, or trying to remove or kill the snake.

Enjoying nature, wildlife and the environment are part of the perks of living in Florida; coexisting with wildlife is a necessity. Be smart, be safe and enjoy the great outdoors.

Contact the author Tim Hamilton @ (904) 470-2200 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it for questions related to this article.

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