There are numerous species of snakes in North America, several of which are venomous. They live in a variety of habitats, some aquatic, some land-based. All snakes are carnivores, and feed on a variety of small prey. Snakes can prove beneficial in reducing rats and mice, but many people prefer not to encounter snakes at all.

NOTE: Do not provoke or attempt to handle any snake that you cannot properly identify - it may be a venomous snake. If you are bitten by a venomous snake, you should immediately seek medical attention at a hospital.

People often encounter snakes because their property provides good habitat. Like all animals, snakes seek out good places to hunt and hide. Sometimes this includes a person's property, or even house if there is access. Like many animals, snakes often choose flight before fight, but a startled or provoked snake will certainly defend itself. Many snake bite victims are bitten on the arms or hands, indicating that they messed with snakes they should not have. Bites can be avoided using common sense. Many snakes give a warning before a strike (such as the rattlesnake's tail rattle), but not always. Some snakes can be unpredictable. It is best to keep distance between yourself and a dangerous snake, at least up to half a snake's body length, which is a typical striking distance. Let the pros safely identify, capture, and remove an unwanted snake.