Catch of the Week: Snake
February 22, 2017
Our team had a very interesting call over the last month from a homeowner who found a snake on the outside of their home. Yes, you heard that right - a snake in the winter. Though this is a very unique situation, it is not unheard of. Learn a bit more about Iowa snakes and how you can detect an infestation.
Snakes in Iowa
There is an abundance of species of snakes that live in Iowa. The good news is that the majority of them are harmless. However, it is important to be wary of any snake that you encounter and be cautious just in case. The most common snakes in Iowa are:
- Brown Snake
- Copperhead (venomous, however, rarely fatal for humans)
- Diamondback Watersnake
- Eastern Garter Snake
- Eastern Hognose Snake
- Eastern Racer
- Gopher Snake
- Graham's Crayfish Snake
- Lined Snake
- Massasauga Rattlesnake (venomous)
- Milk Snake
- Northern Water Snake
- Plainbelly Watersnake
- Plains Garter Snake
- Prairie Kingsnake
- Prairie Rattlesnake (venomous)
- Redbelly Snake
- Ringneck Snake
- Smooth Green Snake
- Speckled Kingsnake
- Timber Rattlesnake (venomous)
- Western Fox Snake
- Western Rat Snake
- Western Ribbon Snake
- Western Worm Snake
- Western Hognose Snake
Snake Behavior and Diet
Every species of snake is very different, and therefore their diet and behavior are, as well. However, most Iowa snake's diet consists of animals such as small rodents, birds, frogs, worms, etc. As for behavior, depending on the species, snakes can live in a variety of habitats from a backyard to a field and even a lake or pond.
Signs of a Snake Infestation
The easiest way to determine if you have a snake infestation on your property is by seeing them. If you begin to notice them more often than normal, call a pest control company immediately.
Des Moines Metro Snake Spotter
Noticing snakes? We want to know about it. Whether they are in your yard or you notice one while on a run, we would love for you to share it on our Snake Spotter*!
*Snakes are extremely interesting creatures. However, it is important never to put yourself in harm's way and always proceed with caution.
Leading Des Moines Pest Control Service
Have you encountered a situation similar to this homeowner? If so, it is important to call a pest control service immediately. As stated above, it is crucial to be extremely careful around these creatures. For any pest control need you may have, our team at Preferred Pest is here to help. Feel free to
schedule an appointment online or give us a call at
(515) 415-5550.