Snake sightings in Lake Mary, FL, are not uncommon due to the region’s natural environment and abundant green spaces. While such encounters can be surprising, understanding how to identify, avoid, and respond to them can help ensure safety for both residents and local wildlife in a respectful, informed way.

Understanding Snake Behavior

Snakes play an important role in the local ecosystem and often go unnoticed unless provoked or surprised. By understanding how they behave and where they are likely to be found, residents can reduce their chances of an unexpected encounter and maintain a safer living environment for all.

1. Natural Pest Control

Snakes help control populations of pests such as rodents, insects, frogs, and even small birds. This contributes to a balanced ecosystem and reduces the spread of diseases that can harm other wildlife and even humans.

2. Habitat Preferences

Snakes often prefer undisturbed areas with access to both food and shelter. Common hiding locations include wooded areas, marshes, gardens, crawl spaces, and dense underbrush near homes or buildings, especially those near natural water bodies.

3. Temperature-Based Activity

Because snakes are cold-blooded reptiles, their activity patterns are closely tied to outdoor temperatures. They are typically more active during warm spring and summer months and seek sheltered areas or underground spots during colder periods.

Preventing Snake Encounters

Simple preventative steps around your property can help minimize the likelihood of running into snakes near homes, sheds, or yards.

1. Maintain Clean Surroundings

Remove debris, woodpiles, and overgrown vegetation where snakes might hide or nest. Keep grass trimmed short, clear cluttered areas, and seal small ground-level openings near porches or foundations.

2. Design Thoughtful Landscaping

Choose open, well-lit yard designs with fewer hiding spots. Rock or gravel barriers, tidy flowerbeds, and neatly arranged plants can help reduce the likelihood of snakes nesting close to homes and recreational areas.

3. Learn About Local Snakes

Becoming familiar with common local snake species and their habits allows individuals to recognize and understand snakes, reducing fear and encouraging safe, informed responses to sightings.

Common Snake Species in Lake Mary, FL

Lake Mary is home to both non-venomous and venomous snakes that are adapted to the area’s warm climate and diverse natural habitats. Awareness of these species can help people identify them more easily and react appropriately.

Also Read: Common Snakes Found in Florida

Non-Venomous Snakes

• Black Racer: A sleek, fast-moving black snake often seen in open spaces, gardens, and fields. Not aggressive and usually avoids people by retreating quickly when approached or startled.
• Florida Brown Snake: Small and typically brown or grayish, this snake is harmless and often found in urban areas, flower beds, or gardens, feeding mostly on insects, earthworms, and small slugs.
• Common Garter Snake: This snake features long stripes along its body and lives in various wet or dry habitats. It eats small fish, amphibians, worms, and insects, and poses no threat to humans.

Venomous Snakes

• Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake: Recognizable by its diamond patterns and loud tail rattles, this large rattlesnake is often found in dry, wooded, or brushy areas and prefers to avoid human interaction.
• Cottonmouth (Water Moccasin): Dark in color with a distinctive white mouth lining, this snake is usually found near water bodies like ponds, swamps, and rivers. It may act defensively if cornered or surprised.
• Pygmy Rattlesnake: A small but venomous rattlesnake with a subtle rattling sound. Common in brushy fields, pine forests, and wooded areas. It’s often well camouflaged, making it harder to notice.

What to Do During a Snake Encounter

If you encounter a snake in your yard, garage, or while out hiking, it’s important to stay calm and avoid sudden movements. Most snakes prefer to avoid humans and only act defensively when they feel threatened.

1. Stay Calm and Step Back

Most snakes will not attack unless provoked. Slowly stepping away from the snake gives it a chance to retreat and helps avoid any accidental bites or defensive reactions.

2. Do Not Try to Handle It

Even non-venomous snakes may bite if they feel cornered or threatened. It’s best to leave the snake alone and allow it to move on at its own pace without interference.

3. If Bitten, Seek Medical Help

All snake bites should be treated seriously, even if the snake is believed to be non-venomous. Take a picture of the snake if safe to do so and seek immediate medical attention.

Conclusion

Living in Lake Mary means sharing space with native wildlife, including a variety of snake species. By understanding their behavior, making small changes to your surroundings, and knowing how to respond during an encounter, residents can support a peaceful and safe coexistence with these often misunderstood reptiles.