Travis Country West is Seeing a Slew of Snakes

The Travis Country West subdivision has experienced an influx of snakes in the neighborhood lately, with sightings on running trails, front yards, and even porches, including a couple of mating rattlesnakes on the trail behind Sacred Arrow/Eagles Landing. It’s no wonder this would be a concern for those living in the area. Knowing a bit more about snakes, though, is one of the best ways to deal with them, as well as avoid harming snakes that may be no threat to humans.

According to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department:

Snakes are a natural and integral component of the ecosystem. As predators, they are invaluable for their role in maintaining the balance of nature by helping to keep populations of their prey in check. Their prey consists of everything from earthworms to rabbits, and this includes other snakes. Snakes are especially important in the control of rodents. Bull snakes can be a farmer’s best friend.

On top of that, snake bites are not nearly as fatal as one might presume, TPWD notes, “In Texas we have an average of 2-3 deaths per year from snakebites, compared with 5 to 7 for insect bites and 8 for lightning.”

The best defense against venomous snakes is avoidance. To avoid a particular animal, it is best to know what it looks like and where it is likely to be found. Snakes are often found under rocks, fallen limbs, and in leaf litter. They also can be hidden in tall grassy and brushy areas.

If you’re not interested in snakes in your life, the best way to stay snake-free is avoidance. Some of the best ways to keep snakes out of yards include removing items they may use for shelter, like brush piles, debris, and rock piles. Keeping food sources away from homes is also a key element so handling rat and rodent issues immediately is important, as rodents are the most likely cause of the current rise in snakes. Finally, making sure that all holes near doors, windows, water pipes, etc. are well-sealed shuts off entry points into a home (and will also save money from heating/cooling leaking out).

The Central Texas region has the largest number of species of snakes, which gives those who live in the area the opportunity to witness these creatures in their own habitat. Following a few simple steps will help reduce exposure to the dangerous ones and keep the nuisance ones from homes. If you are looking for a home in the Travis Country West area, contact area expert Austin REALTOR® Brian Talley.