Killing a Snake in Your Yard Can Backfire and Raise Bite Risk Experts Say

Experts warn it may increase encounters, not fix them

Experts say homeowners should avoid killing snakes in their yards because it can increase bite risk and doesn’t actually prevent more snakes from returning. Instead, they recommend prevention: remove food sources like rodents and make the property less attractive by clearing brush, tall grass, and other hiding spots. Habitat changes are presented as the most reliable long-term solution.