The small gap in the garage door is the place where this rattlesnake has been coming and going for months at this point. It’s hibernating, and it’s very possible there are others inside as well. On the right days, a rattlesnake may come just outside the surface of its den even on cold days.
These situations can be dangerous when the fire department or well-meaning neighbor is tasked with helping out. Site fidelity is strong over the winter, with this specific spot necessary for the survival of the snake. If it is thrown over the fence, as is the common practice with fire department removals, it will come back immediately. Along the way, secondary encounters are often reported.
Special consideration must be taken when relocating snakes during the winter months. In order to survive and not end up in an immediate conflict situation, suitable replacement hibernaculum must be found to emulate the situation of capture.
This one was relocated to an exposed rocky outcrop with deep cover, where it can continue its winter activity. The homeowner will repair the garage seal, and the situation is not only resolved, but prevented for the future.