Snakes
Identifying Venomous Snakes in South Florida
South Florida is home to dozens of snake species, and the vast majority are non-venomous and beneficial — they keep rodent populations in check. But a handful are genuinely dangerous to curious pets and children. Knowing the difference helps you stay calm and respond correctly when you find one.
Important: Never handle a snake to identify it. Many serious bites happen when people try to catch or kill a snake. Keep your distance, secure pets and kids, and call a professional.
The Venomous Species to Know
Water Moccasin (Cottonmouth)
Found near canals, ponds, and wetlands, the water moccasin is thick-bodied with a blocky head and often holds its ground rather than fleeing. When threatened, it gapes to show the white interior of its mouth — the 'cottonmouth.' It's frequently confused with harmless water snakes.
Eastern Coral Snake
Brightly banded in red, yellow, and black, the coral snake is secretive and usually found in leaf litter or under debris. The classic rhyme helps: 'Red touches yellow, kills a fellow; red touches black, friend of Jack.' Its venom is potent, though bites are rare because the snake is shy.
Rattlesnakes
South Florida has the eastern diamondback, pygmy, and timber rattlesnakes. The diamondback is large and heavy with a distinctive diamond pattern and, of course, a rattle — though a snake won't always rattle before striking.
Why Snakes Are a Risk to Pets and Kids
Dogs investigate with their noses and faces, putting them right in striking range. Bites to the face and legs are common and can be serious or fatal without prompt treatment. Children exploring woodpiles, gardens, and pool enclosures are also vulnerable — these are exactly the places snakes shelter.
What to Do If You Find a Snake
- 1.Keep everyone back. Bring pets and children indoors and give the snake space.
- 2.Don't try to catch or kill it. This is when most bites occur, and you may misidentify the species.
- 3.Note its location. Watch from a safe distance so a technician can find it quickly.
- 4.Call for safe removal. Our team identifies, captures, and relocates snakes humanely — day or night.
Keeping Snakes Away for Good
Snakes follow food and shelter. Controlling rodents, clearing debris and woodpiles, sealing gaps around the foundation and garage, and trimming dense landscaping all make your property less attractive. Our snake removal and exclusion service handles the immediate threat and addresses the conditions that drew the snake in the first place.
Frequently asked questions
- How can I tell if a snake is venomous in Florida?
- It's safest not to rely on identification up close. From a distance, venomous species like the water moccasin have a thick body and blocky head, while the coral snake has red, yellow, and black bands with red touching yellow. When in doubt, keep your distance and call a professional.
- What should I do if a snake bites my dog?
- Treat it as an emergency. Keep your dog calm and still to slow venom spread, do not apply a tourniquet or try to suck out venom, and get to an emergency vet immediately. Try to safely note the snake's appearance for the vet.
- Do you remove non-venomous snakes too?
- Yes. We safely remove and relocate both venomous and non-venomous snakes, and we help identify and seal the entry points that let them onto your property.
