How to Kill Wild Snakes

Even if you like snakes, you might occasionally find yourself in a situation where the snake has to go. In those situations, you don't necessarily care if it's a black mamba, a rattlesnake, a python or a harmless garden snake–you just want it out. Remember that snakes are more afraid of you than you are of them, and are generally shy and withdrawing in nature. Keep reading to learn how to keep a wild snake away and kill it should it become a problem.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Shovel
• Hoe
• Box

1. Decide what type of snake you have. If the snake is a rattle snake, a black mamba or some other poisonous snake and you can retreat from it, it is especially important that you do not try to kill it yourself, but hire a professional. More people are bitten by snakes when they try to kill it than any other time.

2. Try to move the snake. Once you've decided that the snake is not poisonous or potentially fatally dangerous (as most are not), move the snake. Don't pick up the snake unless you know how, but use a shovel or something else that can allow you to easily transport it. If you can't catch it, purchase a trap that is non-poisonous and use that to catch it. Release it somewhere away from where you live. If you're squeamish and don't like the idea of picking it up, call a professional.

3. Implement strategies to keep it away. Remove any piles of debris, including wood, that are nearby. Removing the snake's hunting grounds or home will help keep the snake away. Snakes also dislike gravel, because it cuts them and moth balls because of the strong scent, so depending on where the problem is, it might be easy to keep them away.

4. Kill the snake. If the problem persists, it's time to kill the snake. You can hit it with a shovel, chop it up with a knife (messy) or find some other way of killing it. Make sure it's dead, because it might not be if you're not careful.

Tips & Warnings

• If you're not sure if the snake is poisonous, call a professional and don't risk it. They know what they're doing, and although it may be expensive, it's also worthwhile.
• Do not shoot the snake. It has pipes on the inside and outside of it which are flammable and really can cause an explosion. It might take care of the snake, but it could cause significant other problems as well.

Resources

• All Experts: Wild Animals
• How to Kill Snakes