Most snakes you see in a Tampa Bay yard are harmless. Black racers, corn snakes, rat snakes and garter snakes are common and actually help by eating rodents. Tampa Bay does have four venomous snakes to know: the eastern diamondback rattlesnake, the dusky pygmy rattlesnake, the cottonmouth and the eastern coral snake. If you cannot tell what a snake is, keep your distance, keep kids and pets away and call a professional.
Common harmless snakes in Tampa Bay
- Southern black racer: Slim, shiny black snake with a white chin. Fast and nervous. Very common in yards.
- Corn snake: Orange or reddish with red blotches outlined in black. Often found in garages and sheds hunting mice.
- Rat snake: Long, with stripes or blotches. Climbs trees and attics, chasing rodents and birds.
- Garter snake: Small with light stripes down the body. Common near water and gardens.
- Ringneck and brown snakes: Tiny snakes that hide under mulch and pavers.
The eastern indigo snake is a large, glossy blue-black snake that is protected by federal law. It should never be harmed.
Venomous snakes to watch for
- Eastern diamondback rattlesnake: Large, heavy body with dark diamonds outlined in light scales and a rattle.
- Dusky pygmy rattlesnake: Small and gray with dark spots and a tiny rattle that is hard to hear.
- Cottonmouth: Thick, dark body, found near water. May open its white mouth when threatened.
- Eastern coral snake: Red, yellow and black bands, with red touching yellow.
If you see one of these, stay back. Do not try to kill or move it. Most bites happen when people try to handle snakes.
Why are snakes in my yard?
Snakes follow food and shelter. Rodents, frogs, tall grass, woodpiles, debris and gaps under sheds or slabs all invite them. Removing the reason they came is the best long-term fix.
How to keep snakes away from your home
- Control rodents, which are a top food source.
- Keep grass short and remove brush, woodpiles and clutter near the house.
- Seal gaps under doors, garages and sheds.
- Raise firewood and storage off the ground.
- Check pool cages and screen enclosures for holes.
When should you call for removal?
Call when a snake is inside your home, garage or pool cage, or when one keeps coming back. EcoSmart removes non-venomous snakes and helps make your property less inviting. For venomous snakes, keep your distance and contact a licensed nuisance wildlife trapper. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) keeps a list of trappers.
Frequently asked questions
Are black snakes in Florida dangerous? Black racers are not venomous. They may bite if grabbed, but they would rather flee.
Do snake repellents work? Research has not shown that most store-bought snake repellents work well. Removing food and shelter works better.
Will a snake get in my attic? Rat snakes can climb into attics while chasing rodents. Sealing entry points and controlling rodents helps.
Get help with snakes and wildlife
See our wildlife and non-venomous snake removal, read about wildlife exclusion, or call (813) 602-5619.
Sources: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission; University of Florida Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, Florida snake identification resources.
