How to Get Rid of Black Snakes Indoors

Non-venomous snakes are beneficial to have around a house.

Black snakes--several varieties of non-venomous snakes lumped together as one group--are common throughout the United States. Whether it is a corn snake, rat snake, milk snake or a Black Racer, it is unpleasant to find one in your house. Since most are aggressive when cornered, your first instinct may be to kill it; however, snakes keep other vermin out of your house, so safely removing it to another location is a better option.

Things You'll Need

• Household broom
• Large plastic garbage can with "lip" around the edge, and a lid

Instructions

1. Lay the plastic garbage can on its side near the snake, but not close enough that the reptile can suddenly strike and bite you.

2. Sweep the snake gently into the plastic garbage can, using the broom. Make sure it has a long handle to give plenty of space between you and the snake.

3. Place your fingers under the lip of the garbage can and gently pull the can up into a standing position.

4. Place the lid firmly on the garbage can, snapping it into place so it will not come off while you are transporting the snake.

5. Remove the snake to another location and release it, such as a wooded area or a wild area in a park.

Tips & Warnings

• A plastic garbage can works well because the smooth sides prohibit the snake from crawling out.

• Glue boards can also be used to capture snakes; you may need to place several together if you are attempting to catch a larger snake.

• Killing the snake is unnecessary, and may get you bitten in the process.

• Once you have removed the snake, seal up any cracks or crevices in which the snake gained access to the house. Otherwise, the problem may continue.

References

• Marshall.edu: Black Rat Snake
• University of Missouri Extension: Snakes: Information for Missouri Homeowners

Resources

• Florida Museum of Natural History: Gettng along with Snakes