When Florida’s Venomous Serpents Come Alive: Your Essential Guide to Snake Season 2024 in Viking
As temperatures rise across Florida, residents in Viking and the greater St. Lucie County area are entering what experts call “snake season” – a period when these reptiles are most active and likely to encounter humans. Snake season in Florida refers to the period when snakes are most active. This typically aligns with the warmer months, from April through October. Understanding how to identify venomous species and when to call professionals can mean the difference between a manageable wildlife encounter and a dangerous situation.
Florida’s Six Venomous Species: What Viking Residents Need to Know
Only six of Florida’s 44 snake species are venomous: the eastern coral snake, the southern copperhead, the cottonmouth, the eastern diamondback rattlesnake, the timber rattlesnake, and the dusky pygmy rattlesnake. For Viking residents, understanding these species is crucial for safety.
The Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake stands out as the largest venomous snake in the United States and one that everyone knows – though rarely sees. The Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake, one of the most iconic snakes in Florida, is easily recognizable by its distinctive diamond pattern. This venomous species prefers dry, sandy, and mixed forest habitats. In 2024, this species showed increased spring activity, with most of the reports (6) were during the spring. At this time of year, they are coming out of brumation and are willing to be encountered as they are seeking food.
The Dusky Pygmy Rattlesnake presents a different challenge due to its size and temperament. The Dusky Pygmy Rattlesnake is the most common venomous snake in Florida, and is responsible for more human snakebites than any other snake. It is found throughout the state. Despite their small stature, the rattle of a Pygmy Rattlesnake, however, is unique in that it is much smaller and less audible than that of larger rattlesnake species. In fact, the sound produced by its rattle is often described as a faint “buzz” and may go unnoticed unless one is very close.
The Cottonmouth, also known as the Water Moccasin, was the most frequently encountered venomous snake. It was not only the most common venomous snake, but it was also the most frequently encountered snake period (38). This species particularly concerns waterfront property owners in Viking, as this snake prefers to be near water – and there is plenty of water in the bay area.
2024 Snake Activity Patterns and Safety Statistics
The 2024 data reveals important trends for Florida residents. There’s six venomous snakes native to Florida and in 2024 Florida poison control in Jacksonville, Miami and Tampa consulted more than 300 venomous bites. In 2024, Florida’s poison control centers in Jacksonville, Miami and Tampa consulted on 322 venomous bites. Fortunately, the mortality rate from snake bites in Florida is nearly 0, but it’s still important to know what to do if you or someone you know gets bitten.
Weather patterns significantly influence snake behavior, making certain times more dangerous than others. Weather significantly influences snake behavior. Warmer temperatures increase their activity levels as they seek out food and mates. This means Viking residents should be especially cautious during warm, humid periods and after rainfall when snakes become more active.
Professional Removal Guidelines: When to Call Experts
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission provides clear guidance on snake encounters. There is no good reason to kill a snake except in the unlikely situation of a venomous snake posing immediate danger to people or pets. Snakes usually bite people only if they are molested; it’s their only means of self-defense. For safe removal, if you determine that the snake is venomous or you are not sure of its identity, take a digital photograph and contact a professional! Do not attempt to handle the snake yourself!
Professional wildlife removal services follow specific protocols. If you find a snake indoors in close quarters and are not able to safely use this technique, or if you don’t feel comfortable using the “trashcan” technique, we suggest hiring a qualified nuisance wildlife trapper. Know there will be a fee for this professional service and it could be expensive. To find a licensed wildlife removal specialist in your area, visit the nuisance wildlife permit website maintained by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
For safety, it’s advisable to engage professionals for snake removal. Professional handlers are trained to handle snakes without causing harm to them or people. They are also well versed in the laws surrounding snake removal. This expertise is crucial because some snakes are protected and require expert removal under state law.
ProControl Management Services: Viking’s Trusted Wildlife Control Partner
For Viking residents facing snake encounters, wildlife removal viking services are available through ProControl Management Services, a locally-established company serving St. Lucie County since 2006. At ProControl Management Services we pride ourselves in providing fast, affordable and reliable pest control services. Since 2006 we have been providing Treasure Coast residents and local businesses with dependable pest control solutions.
The company’s approach aligns with professional standards, as ProControl Management Services is a pest control company based in Port St. Lucie, Florida, specializing in fast, eco-friendly solutions for both residential and commercial clients. The company offers a comprehensive range of services, including rodent control, termite management, wildlife removal, and treatment for other common pests. With over 15 years of experience, they cater to various industries such as restaurants, hotels, healthcare, and retail, providing customized pest control solutions to ensure client satisfaction. ProControl prides itself on reliability, trained staff, and a commitment to environmentally responsible pest management.
Their commitment to safety and environmental responsibility makes them well-suited for handling Florida’s diverse wildlife challenges. At ProControl Management Services we offer free estimates to all of our clients, whether you have a residential, commercial, or industrial building with a bug problem. Have a peace of mind knowing that we are licensed, fully insured and we stand behind all our products and service offered.
Prevention and Property Management
The most effective approach to snake control involves prevention. The frequent sighting of snakes near dwellings or out-buildings may indicate the presence of rodents. Removal of brush, lumber or other debris accumulations will discourage both rodents and snakes. Property owners should also police regularly areas where chronically spilled bird seed under feeders or pet foods scraps might attract rodents.
For immediate snake encounters, experts recommend simple safety measures. Just stand back and observe it. Snakes don’t purposefully position themselves to frighten people. Remember that even a venomous snake in the woods or crossing the road poses no threat and should be left alone. Also, most larger snakes travel in large areas, so one you see in your yard today may be far away tomorrow.
Emergency Response Protocol
If a snake bite occurs, immediate action is critical. First stay calm, second make that call right away. Third, don’t ice or put a tourniquet on it. It’s crucial to immediately call poison control or 911 so you can get medical treatment right away. Florida’s medical infrastructure is well-prepared for such emergencies, as the state of Florida has three antivenom banks, making antivenom easily accessible to our local hospitals.
As Viking residents navigate the 2024 snake season, understanding species identification, knowing when to call professionals, and having reliable wildlife control services like ProControl Management Services available ensures both human safety and wildlife conservation. Most Florida snakes are harmless and beneficial and remove extra rodent populations. Most snakes you encounter are most likely to be non-venomous. With proper knowledge and professional support, coexistence with Florida’s native snake population remains both safe and beneficial for the ecosystem.