How much does it cost to remove a snake?

Reviewed by Irene Pomares remodeling expert. Written by Fixr.com.

Depending on where you live, it is not uncommon for a snake to find its way inside your home. While many of the snakes that seek refuge inside are non-poisonous, it is still important to promptly remove and relocate the snake, ideally with professional wildlife removal services.

Some factors that influence the cost of removing a snake from a home include the type of snake, as well as whether the snake is inside or underneath your house. Removing a snake from a house usually averages $300 to $400, with the average homeowner paying around $350 to remove a non-venomous snake that takes two to three hours to catch. The lowest cost would be $150 for an easy-to-catch, non-venomous snake, while the highest price is $600 for the removal of a venomous snake that is underneath a house.

Snake Removal Costs

Snake Removal Cost by Type

I think everyone would agree that it is definitely more frightening to be surprised by a copperhead or a rattlesnake than a garter snake. Snake removal specialists, although not afraid of venomous snakes, may charge more to remove them because of the risk involved. Pricing is influenced by the ease of reaching the snake and the number of snakes that need to be removed.

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Garter Snake Removal

Usually, garter snakes are relatively small snakes at 23 to 30 inches; however, garter snakes can grow as long as five feet. Although some species possess venom, it is a mild neurotoxin. Garter snakes come in a variety of colors and patterns. Many of them feature three longitudinal stripes and are generally a yellow or green color. They may also have a pattern between the stripes, which creates a checkered look. On occasion, you may see a garter snake that has no stripes. Garter snake removal costs around $300.

Rat Snake Removal

The Eastern rat snake used to be called the black rat snake. They are covered in black, shiny scales with a white chin and throat. Although not poisonous, the rat snake emits a nasty smell when it feels threatened. You will pay about $300 for rat snake removal.

Anaconda Pest Control

Anacondas are large snakes, growing as large as 30 feet long. As they are not native to the U.S., these giants of the snake world are prohibited in the United States. At one time, anacondas were allowed as exotic pets. People with anacondas as pets are required to get a permit and maintain it until the snake dies. The presence of this type of snake in the wild could result in the disappearance of many native animals. Removing an anaconda costs about $500.

Copperhead Snake Control

This venomous snake is identified by its copper-colored (light red, tan, or brown) head. They are covered in dark-colored hourglass shapes and have a distinctive solid-colored head. You may see other snakes with the same coloring, but the copperhead is the only one with the hourglass shapes. Expect to pay about $500 on average for copperhead removal.

Coral Snake Removal

The bite of this brightly colored snake is venomous, but at first, the victim may seem fine. Within 12 hours, the symptoms can become deadly. An antivenom takes care of the bite quickly and efficiently, so very few people die because of a bite from this snake. Their beautiful red, black, and yellow rings are a distinctive feature and separate them from its non-venomous copycat. The cost for coral snake removal averages about $500.

Python Pest Control

Pythons originated in Africa, but in recent years, have infiltrated the United States. Officials believe the large number of pythons now appearing in the Everglades is attributed to escaped or released pet snakes. Pythons are known for their ability to wrap around their prey and squeeze tighter and tighter until it dies. Cases of attacks are all connected to pet snakes except in the wild, where pythons are very common. The cost to remove a python would be about $500.

Rattlesnake Removal

Rattlesnakes get their name from the warning system at the end of their tail. This rattle is made up of sections of keratin that knock together to make a sound that mimics a baby rattle. Each time the snake sheds its skin, it grows another segment on the rattle. They also make a hissing noise as another forewarning of attack. Due to the danger of rattlesnake bites, you will pay about $500 for rattlesnake removal.

Viper Pest Control

The type of viper that is located in the U.S. is the pit viper. Pit vipers have a heat-sensitive pit on either side of their head that helps them to seek prey. They are a venomous snake but will only bite when cornered or threatened. Since their removal is risky, it will cost you around $500.

Snake Removal Cost by Method

The basic method of snake control treatment revolves around the use of a hook or a trap. Typically, the removal expert looks around and tries to find the snake’s hiding spot first. Though it is uncommon, the snake may be wrangled in a single visit with a hook. It is more common for the professional to return in a day or two to check the trap after instructing the homeowners to seal off access points except for the one set with a box-trap. The removal specialist may also implement snake repellents, to not just deter the snake, but also to coax it from one space into another.

Snake Relocation

In most cases, the snake removal professional will relocate the snake. Killing a snake unless it is highly venomous and larger than normal is usually the last alternative. Snake relocation service professionals are trained to identify types of snakes and relocate them to an area where they have the best chance of survival. The cost to relocate a snake is usually based on the amount of time it takes to catch the snake with a hook and where the snake will be taken. Typically, it costs around $300 to remove with a hook and relocate the snake.

Live Snake Trap

Although professional snake removal services usually try to catch the snake with a hook, if the snake isn’t obvious about his location, a live snake trap may be used. The expert will use a bait that he knows will attract the type of snake you believe you have. Using a live snake trap costs about $300 unless the trap requires multiple trips back to the house.

Snake Removal Cost by Location

Snakes like to get into the tiniest possible places with the least amount of activity. They may be difficult to locate and require a professional to get into some uncomfortable places. A recent story tells of a couple who bought a house that they later discovered contained a den of garter snakes under the back deck. Most likely, you don’t have 150 snakes on your property like this couple, but you may have some living in your house. Snakes follow the food source, so they are often found in homes. The cost to get rid of snakes in your home depends on your location, how many snakes you have, and what type of snakes they are. For non-venomous, easy to catch snakes, the cost will be around $150. The snake removal cost varies by location of the snake.

Get Rid of Snakes in the Garage

Garages are nice homes for snakes as there are so many places to hide. Most of us have our lawn equipment, boxes, tools, and other items we store in the garage. However, when items get moved around, there aren’t many places for a snake to go. It could cost you around $150 to remove a snake from your garage.

Get Rid of Snakes in the Yard

Snakes in the yard are sometimes a good thing as they eat all the little pests that harm plants and flowers. But a venomous snake is obviously a danger to everyone. Having a professional remove it is the best choice. The cost to remove a snake from your garden depends on whether it is venomous or not. You will spend around $150 for an easy to catch, non-venomous snake and $500 for a venomous snake.

How to Get Rid of Snakes on the Roof

Snakes often use the roof to gain entry to the attic. If you see a snake on the roof, it may be sniffing around for food and warmth. Call a professional right away because if the snake gets in the attic, it is harder to catch. The cost of removing a snake from the roof is $300.

Get Rid of Snakes in the Basement

An unfinished basement is a great place for a snake to live. Cool, quiet, dark, and possibly the home of other creatures he can eat! Also, storage items provide great places for the snake to live. A finished basement is less appealing. However, since it is below the surface of the house, it still may be attractive. The cost depends on how difficult it is to locate the snake but should be around $350.

How to Get Rid of Snakes in the Attic

Snakes think rats are a tasty treat, and they often both end up in the attic area. Rats carry a musty odor that snakes can easily locate. Once they are in the attic, snakes hide in the insulation or behind objects to wait for their prey. The best way to get rid of the snakes is first to address the rat or rodent problem. The cost to remove snakes from an attic may become expensive as they hide more efficiently in that area. Expect to pay around $500 for removal in the attic.

How to Get Rid of Snakes in the Crawl Space

Crawl spaces are difficult to get to, hot during the summer, and cold during the winter. They require squeezing into for a professional to get rid of a snake. The cost of removing a snake from a crawl space may be expensive at $500.

Professional Snake Removal Cost

Handling snakes can be dangerous, especially by those that are inexperienced, so removing a snake should be done by a pro. Often, the snake can be successfully removed in a single visit, though it may require a follow-up visit to check traps and relocate trapped snakes. Some removal professionals may charge an additional $100 for each return visit to check the traps and potentially relocate snakes.

If you live in regions where snakes are less common, the Northeast United States, for example, snake removal may cost more and finding snake removal professionals may be more difficult. Typically, wildlife removal experts charge by the visit or job, meaning that they charge for the removal rather than an hourly rate after they have assessed the situation. Typically, it costs an average of $350 to remove a single snake from a residence.

Snake Inspection

A snake inspection professional will walk your property looking for snakes or evidence of snakes. They will look along wooded areas, under debris or sheds, in holes, ditches, house cracks or gaps, and in your crawl space. The charges for a snake inspection start at $75. The inspector will share any evidence or concerns about snakes and may even tell you what types of snakes you have.

Cost Factors to Remove Snakes

Determining the cost of removing a snake from your home or property can be tricky because many factors influence the pricing. Where you live, where the snake is located, what kind of snake it is, and how many snakes you have are all things that can increase or decrease the price of the removal.

The average cost of hiring a professional exterminator is $250 to $300​, though snake removal experts usually charge more. You can expect to pay an average of $350 for removal.

The number of snakes being removed also impacts the cost. For instance, removing a nest of snakes from your cellar will cost more than one lone snake that finds its way into your home.

Some removal professionals charge a flat rate for removing a snake, regardless of its type. However, it is more common for wildlife professionals to charge more for removing and relocating a venomous species from the home. The price differential isn’t vast, typically between $50 to $100 more than removing non-venomous breeds.

If the snake is in a tricky location, it can also take more time and cost more to remove it. Sometimes snakes hide, and it can be difficult to lure them out. Some removal professionals may charge an additional $100 for each return visit to check the traps and potentially relocate snakes.

Signs of Snakes in a House

While seeing a single snake in the garden is not necessarily a sign of infestation, some signs should give you a reason to check underneath and around your home for snakes. If you have numerous sightings in or out of your home or hear scrambling sounds behind the walls of the home, you could have a snake issue. Also, note whether your tap water has a funky smell, or the cellar or crawlspace has a musty, mildew smell. These odors are also signs of an infestation. Keep an eye out for snake excrement, which often contains hair and bone fragments.

Signs of Snakes in an Attic

Snakes often end up in the attic looking for food or warmth. If you hear scuffling sounds, see snake skins or droppings, or know you have a rat problem, you may have snakes in your attic. Snakes will go where the food is, and that includes finding spaces to enter the attic.

Signs of Snakes in Your Yard

Indications of a garden snake infestation include sightings of snake skins or droppings. Some people think that snakes make holes in the ground, but they cannot dig. They do sometimes use the abandoned holes of rodents or frogs. Unless the snake is poisonous, allowing the snake to remain may be the best course of action. Snakes help eat insects that destroy plants.

Snake Nest in House

A snake can make its way into your home in search of food, water, and shelter. If they have a good supply of these items, they will stay put and eventually build a nest. Once a nest is built, babies are next. Typically, they prefer areas that are quiet and undisturbed, like the attic, crawlspace, behind water heaters, in the walls, or in the garage.

In particular, they may gravitate under a house or shed. These locations give them an easy way to come and go as they please, uninterrupted. If you suspect you have a snake nest under the house, it is best to call a professional.

What Attracts Snakes to Your House

Snakes are generally much less active during the cooler months as they do not like cold weather. As the weather becomes warmer, they begin to seek food and water and often shelter. If you have chickens, birds, rats, mice, frogs, geckos, or other types of small animals, snakes will eat them. Low-lying water areas attract snakes to your house, so keeping the ground as dry as possible discourages their presence. A garden area is a great place for snakes to find food and may be a positive thing as they eat unwanted pests. Areas where snakes hide include rocks, under sheds or houses, chicken coops, roof cavities, gardens, mulch, tree stumps, or just about anywhere that provides shelter.

Snake Diseases and Health Risks

Health risks are associated with interacting with snakes, including the possibility of being bitten. Do not try to capture the snake on your own; wait for help to arrive. If you are bitten, seek medical attention immediately. Call emergency services on your way to the hospital to relay your symptoms and try to identify what kind of snake bit you. Snakes that are not professionally relocated after removal may also pose harm to your pets or children that spend time outside. Play it safe and hire an expert.

In the U.S., an average of 7,000 snakebites are reported annually. The good news is that only about six of these are fatal. A doctor must examine a snakebite as even non-poisonous snakes can cause an infection or allergic reaction. Signs to look for range from redness in the bite area to vomiting to paralysis.

Certain poisonous snakes cause some specialized symptoms. It is vital to understand how dangerous these snakes can become to humans and pets.

Salmonella is a dangerous illness that can be passed from snakes to people. It can even be in the habitat of the animal. Although it lives in the intestines of many healthy animals, Salmonella can be deadly for little ones or those with a compromised immune system. The disease can be spread by touching the animal or its feces or from being in its environment. Salmonella causes diarrhea, stomach cramping, and fever, but not everyone can fight if off. For individuals whose immune systems are weakened, it creates infections throughout the body and may cause results that last for years.

Are Pythons Dangerous?

The Burmese python is not native to the U.S. but has established a pattern of reproduction. These constrictor snakes are extremely aggressive and are endangering several species in the Everglades National Park in Florida. The disappearance or reduction of populations of rabbits, raccoons, foxes, opossums, and many other mammals, birds, and reptiles have been attributed to this snake.

Are Anacondas Dangerous?

Anacondas are considered the king of the jungle in their native land of South America. They hunt almost any type of animal--deer, jaguars, alligators, dogs, cats, chickens, livestock, as well as adults and children. The anaconda is a constrictor snake and chokes its prey. It is most often found in swampy areas but can encroach on land and kill unsuspecting animals and people.

Are Coral Snakes Dangerous?

You will find these snakes in marshes, woods, and sandy areas, hiding under leaves or underground. Bites often occur when a person or animal accidentally steps on the snake. The problem with a coral snake bite is that the pain does not start until several hours later. The victim may experience drooping eyelids, stomach pain, changes in skin color, headache, convulsions, difficulty swallowing, and paralysis.

Are Rattlesnakes Dangerous?

A rattlesnake bite can cause immediate pain, low blood pressure, thirst, droopy eyelids, tiredness, and muscle weakness. It is essential to seek medical attention within minutes after a bite as the venom is fast-acting and strong.

Are Rat Snakes Dangerous?

Although rat snakes are also constrictor snakes, they are not a danger to humans. Depending on where they live, rat snakes can be black, brown, yellow, red, gray, or black-and-white colored. They shake their tails much like a rattlesnake and are sometimes confused with this more dangerous snake. Their favorite prey is rats, but they also enjoy mice, chipmunks, frogs, lizards, and other small animals.

All About Snakes

Many people are terrified if they see a snake. However, not all snakes are dangerous, and understanding the difference is vital. Snakes often encroach on our territory if the area where they traditionally live is disturbed by construction. Keep in mind that although they seem scary, a snake in your yard or home may just be hunting for food or water.

Snakes are cold-blooded creatures that can live in various places, from forests to deserts, in fresh or saltwater. They are predators who like to eat insects, rodents, young birds, and bird eggs. Larger, more aggressive snakes may kill and eat larger animals. Snakes are somewhat strange. Only about 70% of all snakes lay eggs, and the other 30% give birth to live babies. The size of a snake can range from around three to four inches, a thread snake, up to 30 feet, a reticulated python.

Snakes do not have ears. They use the vibrations of the ground to hear. They use their tongues to “smell” things. Their eyes do not move. Three times a year, snakes shed their skin, so you may see snake skin in various places in your yard. The way to determine if a snake is poisonous is by looking at the eyes--diamond-shaped pupils indicate a venomous snake.

In the U.S., some common snake breeds include garter snakes, copperhead snakes, coral snakes, eastern diamondback rattlesnakes, and kingsnakes. Infestation can occur when snakes seek a cool, damp shelter underneath a house and breed there. It is unlikely that snakes would live long inside your home, but rather may nest in a crawlspace or attic, creating a hibernation den. If left unaddressed, these nests can become home to thousands of snakes over time.

Emergency Snake Removal

It is Thanksgiving Day, and your family is enjoying a nice big meal out on the back deck. After lunch, the kids are playing in the back area, and you hear a scream. The children all come running back to the deck, saying there is a snake in the yard. You go to investigate and see what you suspect is a rattlesnake. You call a professional to come immediately and remove the snake so that your day can go on as planned.

Any holiday or weekend call would be considered an emergency removal. When you need the snake removed impacts the cost. For instance, if you need crisis assistance on the weekend, you may pay an additional fee of $100 to $300 for the service call, depending on your location.

Snake Prevention

It is easier to prevent snakes from nesting on your property than to remove them once they are settled in and comfortably nested. It essentially comes down to modifying the property, so it is less appealing to snakes. Habitat modification includes tactics that prevent snakes from returning, such as sealing off any entry or access points. Eliminating access is one of the best means of snake proofing your house.

Other measures you can take to prevent having unwanted guests in your house include doing a periodic sweep of your property looking for signs of nests or snakes. Clearing away debris and foliage that could serve as a potential habitat for hibernating snakes eliminates hiding places.

Concentrate efforts with lawn care to keep grass, shrubs, plants, and trees trimmed. Use thick layers of mulch as snakes are less prone to nest, though it may increase insect activity. Plant lemongrass or use cinnamon and clove oils to deter snakes.

Snake Extermination vs Snake Removal

Extermination is a word that is used more for insects or rodents rather than snakes. No available spray kills snakes effectively. Some pest control companies or snake removal services use a trap to catch the snake rather than kill it. Wildlife removal is typically done to preserve the life of the snake and move it to another location. Laws protect certain snakes, so extermination is not an option. The average snake removal cost is $350.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Snake Fencing

Snake fencing is a solid way to ensure snakes do not have access to your property. When installing snake fencing, a metal mesh fencing is buried a foot underneath the ground, around the perimeter of the property. The barrier often guides snakes beyond the property toward a more pragmatic location in the area. The cost of snake fencing depends on the linear footage, but typically costs an average of $8 per linear foot installed.

Additional Considerations and Costs

• Permits. You may need a permit, or at the very least permission, to relocate a snake into another area or the wild. You could be contributing to an invasive species or eco-problem by doing this with insufficient insight into snakes. Make sure that you know whose property you are relocating snakes to and that you have been granted permission by them, in writing if possible.
• DIY. A variety of DIY solutions are available that claim to conquer or prevent a snake problem. Consumers can purchase a snake deterrent, snake trap bait, or snake mothballs. However, many of these products are ineffective and could be harmful. They are mostly made of naphthalene, the main ingredient in mothballs. However, mothballs don’t work as a snake prevention. Naphthalene is poisonous to pets and humans. Other options, such as an electronic snake deterrent, snake exclusion fencing, or electronic snake repellents, have drawbacks. Snakes are smart and can figure out a way around electronic devices or fencing.
• Photograph the snake. Since snakes like to hide, it makes sense to snap a photo of the snake when you first spot it. This way, you can show it to the wildlife removal professional, so they know what they’re dealing with and if the snake is venomous or not, which saves time and money.
• Rattlesnake prevention for dogs. If you suspect you have a rattlesnake, it is best to call a professional to remove it. Dogs are protective creatures and would fight a snake in a minute. However, it is an unfair fight because the rattlesnake could kill your dog quickly.
• Snake Repellent Safe for dogs. Some DIY snake repellents are safe for dogs, but they do not always work to get rid of the snakes.

References

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Questions and Answers."
  https://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/general/index.html
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Salmonella Infection."
  https://www.cdc.gov/healthypets/diseases/salmonella.html
• FIXR Cost Guides and Cost Database.
• Healthline. “Snake Bites."
  https://www.healthline.com/health/snake-bites#rattlesnakes
• Mayo Clinic. “Snakebites: First aid.”
  https://www.mayoclinic.org/first-aid/first-aid-snake-bites/basics/art-20056681
• Orkin. “How Do I Get Rid of Snakes in my House?”
  https://www.orkin.com/ask-the-orkin-man/snakes-in-house
• Terminix. “What to Do About a Snake in the House."
  https://www.terminix.com/blog/education/snake-in-house-what-to-do/
• The Humane Society of the United States. “What to do about snakes."
  ​https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/what-do-about-snakes
• The Spruce. “How to Get Rid of Snakes Naturally.”
  https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-get-rid-of-snakes-naturally-1388119