How to Get a Black Snake Out of an Attic

Black rat snakes often get into attics to find prey.

Finding a black snake in the attic is not an ideal situation for many people. Not knowing whether the snake is venomous makes the situation even worse. Fortunately, many snakes found in attics are nonvenomous and do not want anything more than the rats or mice running around the attic. However, feeling comfortable in your home is hard when you know that a snake is above your head. To fix the problem, you must remove the black snake and release it in a more natural and beneficial habitat.

Things You'll Need

• Long pants
• Long-sleeved shirt
• Closed-toe shoes
• Heavy-duty gloves
• Large bucket with lid
• Hammer
• Nail
• Broom

Instructions

1. Dress in long pants, a long-sleeved shirt and shoes that cover your feet. Cover your hands with thick gloves. Protective clothing helps reduce the potential for snake bites.

2. Poke breathing holes in the lid of a large bucket with a nail and hammer.

3. Walk slowly and quietly into the attic. Turn lights on slowly. Slow movements keep the snake calm and reduce the chance of the snake becoming hostile toward you.

4. Get behind the snake. Quickly sweep the snake into the bucket using the bristle end of a sturdy-bristled broom. Place the bucket on the floor, open side up. Quickly place the lid on the bucket and secure it.

5. Release the black snake alive in a safe, wooded area.

Tips & Warnings

• Always look for more snakes in your attic. If a snake has made its home in your attic, there may be baby snakes or eggs hidden in corners, in boxes or under furniture.

• Prevent future snake infestations by getting rid of all pests, such as rats and mice. Keep the attic clean and place snake traps along the walls in case of any remaining snakes. Check your snake traps every day. Contain snakes in a bucket and release in a safe area.

• Call animal control if you are unsure about removing a snake from your attic. Never attempt to remove a snake if it is hostile and lunging at you.

References

• Professional Wildlife Removal: Snakes in the Attic
• Colorado State University; Coping With Snakes; M. Cerato, W. F. Andelt; May 2006

Resources

• Fairfax County Public Schools: Black Rat Snake
• TrailQuest: Poisonous Snakes
• Venomous Snakes: Venomous Snakes (Poisonous Snakes)