Safety first
Keep your distance. Don't try to catch or kill a snake, because many bites happen when people try. Keep kids and pets away and watch where the snake goes. If someone is bitten, call 911. The national Poison Help line is 1-800-222-1222.
Why snakes show up
Snakes follow food and shelter. Rodent activity, woodpiles, rock piles, gaps under doors and cool crawlspaces all attract them.
Prevention
Control rodents, clear clutter near the house, seal gaps under garage doors and around foundations, and screen crawlspace vents. We remove snakes from homes and garages and seal the gaps they used.
Frequently asked questions
Is every rattling snake a rattlesnake?
No. Bullsnakes (gopher snakes) can hiss and shake their tails to imitate a rattlesnake. Treat any snake you can't identify with caution.
Do you remove snakes?
Yes, from inside homes, garages and structures. Then we seal the entry points.
What do I do if bitten?
Call 911 right away. CDC/NIOSH has general first-aid guidance. We don't give medical advice.
Sources
This page is general information, not medical, legal or regulatory advice. For health concerns, contact a healthcare provider or the NM Department of Health. For wildlife regulations, contact NM Game & Fish (NMDOW). Last reviewed Oct 2026.
