Snake Removals from Phoenix and Tucson Updates

Posted on April 26, 2024April 26, 2024 by Bryan Hughes

A homeowner went out into the garage and was immediately rattled at from near the door. The snake likely got in while the door was open for awhile the day before.

While walking around in the backyard at night, a homeowner and her dog were rattled at. The Western Diamondback Rattlesnake had moved under a wheelbarrow to hide, too. That’s where it was found when Marissa arrived to help it find a new place to hang out.

And old gate gets new life with some rattlesnake prevention materials, attached on the inside of the gate so from the street you’d never know that rattlesnakes aren’t even an issue within.

A surprise visitor in a Cave Creek garage. The snake had been coming and going for quite some time through a gap under the seal in the corner.

A pair of colorful Western Diamondback Rattlesnakes near Tucson that were found in a garage. Note that both of them are hiding their heads before relocation. This is an aspect of defense and a sign of the stress of the event. As much as we can try to minimize it, relocation is a very scary experience for the snakes. Thankfully, they learn from these events, and will avoid it in the future.

From Bryce: “This one was a doozy, but a fun one for sure! Got a call around midnight for a rattlesnake sitting in a Buckeye resident’s front yard. By the time I got there, this Mojave Rattlesnake had just started crawling into the neighbor’s yard. Unbeknownst to me at the time, the concrete wall was hollow, and when I went to grab the snake, it slipped its way into the wall. Attempts to secure the snake with tongs and hooks were unsuccessful, so I resorted to watering it out. Admittedly, I wasn’t very hopeful that this call would go in my favor, as this snake had a perfect spot to spend the night in a spot that I couldn’t really get to. But finally, after what seemed like ages, our culprit got sick of being sprayed with water and made a dash for it, giving me an opportunity to bucket her before she could find her way into any more predicaments. “

A sneaky little Western Diamondback Rattlesnake that Dave caught on Tucson’s south side. That generalist pattern works about everywhere, including artificial terrain like this.

A call to the Tucson hotline for “three rattlesnakes” ended up being FIVE by the time Dave was done searching there. All were relocated together to carefully selected cover within their estimated home range.

The homeowner lost track of the snake while Dave was on route, but he found it hiding out in a rodent bait box.

A pest control operator in Scottsdale saw a rattlesnake in a backyard and notified the homeowners. A Property Inspection was scheduled, and Jeff went out to check the yard. He found a pair of mating Western Diamondback Rattlesnake under a bush. Also nearby: the actual problem. A packrat nest was hidden away, and likely where the rattlesnakes had been living.

Some Western Diamondback Rattlesnake diversity from recent relocation calls around Arizona.

It’s not all diamondbacks! Well … here’s one, but with a few friends who also show up at homes from time to time and got a ride back to the desert.

A perfect example of how rattlesnakes rely on camouflage to avoid predators. The owner of this home was putting up Halloween decorations and went up and down the ladder many times before realizing he had a visitor. Bryce was called out and the snake didn’t move until captured.

This Sonoran Desert Toad was seen a few days before and showed up again in this old water feature. After we were called out to capture and relocate it, it was drained to prevent future visits.

A large Mojave Rattlesnake at an industrial area in the east valley. Jeff helped find a new place to hang out. This one is the typical brown coloration of the area.

This little Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was hanging out inside an apartment complex hallway, and was evicted back to the desert by Marissa.

A Mojave Rattlesnake alerted a homeowner to its presence when she was taking the trash out at night in Queen Creek.

A Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was revealed when a homeowner moved a trash can away from a pool pump. This is not an uncommon sight in Scottsdale.

We were recently hired to inspect a property of a medical facility where several rattlesnakes had been spotted. Dave went out and was able to locate 3 Western Diamondback Rattlesnakes, and advise on situations that could be changed to avoid future encounters.

Here are those snakes on the way out, and the deep packrat nest where they were relocated to. By carefully selecting relocation sites and releasing them directly to deep cover, we can reduce the likelihood of panicked wandering behavior and help the snake survive the ordeal.

Derek was able to find a Western Diamondback Rattlesnake in a backyard, where the dog had found it. Thankfully, there was no bite, and everyone (including the sanke) made it out of the situation unscathed.

A Western Diamondback Rattlesnake from a Cave Creek backyard. Spring is mating time, and it’s very often for us to find other rattlesnakes in association with females found on properties. This is one reason we often get right to checking the rest of the property after securing the snake we’re actually called out for. In this instance, she was alone.

A Mojave Rattlesnake from the east valley was relocated by Jeff recently.

If you’re currently typing out “I thought they were green!”, this is where you learn this is not the case in many, if not most, situations with this species in our region.

Dave went out to this property near Tucson after several rattlesnakes had been seen in the area, but none were on the surface that day. However, now in April, one rattlesnake was found near an obvious hibernacula with signs of long-term use. The snake was relocated, and the property owner knows what can be done to prevent their return in the fall.

A Western Diamondback Rattlesnake found in the corner of a garage near Tucson, relocated elsewhere within its estimated home range into carefully selected habitat.

From CJ: “Long Western Diamondback Rattlesnake the other morning. When I arrived it was ready to vámanos from the front porch. Customer asked about rattlesnake eggs and I was able to provide education on rattlesnakes giving live birth and how many people think quail eggs are rattlesnake eggs. When doing the inspection, I stumbled upon a clutch of quail eggs in a planter and was able to point them out to the customer. North Scottsdale.”

Another backyard protected from rattlesnake visits this year. They can live on the other side of the fence, and everything works out just fine.

A new rattlesnake fence installation leaving no gaps large enough for a rattlesnake of any size to get in. Baylend took care of this one.

A pair of Western Diamondback Rattlesnake found recently outside the perimeter of a rattlesnake fence we installed. This prompted a call to relocate the snakes and check the interior area as well, but the fence had done its job and no snakes or issues were found within.

From CJ: “Gophersnake friend crashing the customer’s lounge time on the patio. Took him to the river bottom where there was a good pile of debris he could hang out in. Litchfield Park.”

A Western Diamondback Rattlesnake had been hanging around on the back patio for a few days. Eventually, the homeowner called us to come out and help it move along. CJ found a nice packrat nest shaded by Palo Verde, where it was released directly to deep cover to help it survive the event.

Nik was called to this large Western Diamondback Rattlesnake a few blocks from a midtown neighborhood in Tucson. How it made it through all of the cars and human activity can’t be known, but Nik found the likely source and relocated the snake back to it.

A courtyard gate secured from entry by rattlesnakes recently by the team.

Snake Removal in Phoenix and Tucson Updates

Posted on April 15, 2024April 15, 2024 by Bryan Hughes

This Western Diamondback Rattlesnake kept playing hide and seek with the homeowners in a rodent hole at the base of this bush before it could be captured. This is in a new development in the northwest valley and conflict with wildlife will be high over the next several years, as both the animals and people who’ve moved there adjust.

Western Diamondback Rattlesnake in a bucket.

Nick said this was one of the most defensive rattlesnakes he’s ever worked with, repeatedly striking the inside of the bucket any time it was touched.

These two Western Diamondback Rattlesnakes were found together under an AC unit on a recent property inspection.

This little Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was hiding out behind a decorative pot for the day out in Gold Canyon. Marissa went out to find it a new place.

A recent Rattlesnake Fence installation in Oracle, AZ from Nate that worked out amazingly all around. It’s hard to see (which is the point), and is made to look either invisible or as if it were always part of the structure.

More information on Rattlesnake Fencing:
https://rattlesnakesolutions.com/keep-snakes-away/snake-fence.php?p=social

A mother in north Phoenix thought to check the yard before the kids went out to play, and it’s good she did. This Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was found hiding out near the AC unit. It was relocated to a better area.

A Mojave Rattlesnake found near a warehouse in Mesa. As you can see, they’re not always (or even often) green.

If this pot looks familiar, you’re not wrong. In a recent post you saw a young rattlesnake removed from behind it – another showed up a few days later to the same exact spot that was exactly the same size. It wasn’t the same snake, however, confirmed by comparing the tail bands. Apparently this pot is the spot.

Visible from an angle, this black steel will keep rattlesnakes from accessing the property. Installed by licensed and insured professionals (AZROC 321123)

This little Sonoran Gophersnake was called in as a rattlesnake, after making its way inside a home via a door left ajar. The homeowner threw a towel over it and that’s where it was when Marissa arrived shortly after. Lessons learned: towels are good makeshift snake restraints, and doors open in Arizona invite all guests.

While sweeping the garage, a homeowner noticed a visitor in the corner. This is a very common occurrence in Arizona spring, where snakes that have been using the garage all winter come and go from the free cave situation.

A patio cleanup ended up being a rattlesnake removal call. This baby Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was making use of the shaded corner to rest until temperatures were favorable.

Another large property with new rattlesnake protection installed by our crew.

A Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was found in the parking lot of a business. When people started throwing rocks at it, the snake crawled into the undercarriage of a nearby car to escape. Marissa saw it here when the hood was popped. Thankfully, the snake was not injured and relocated to a more suitable situation.

This member of Snakes Against Literacy was hanging out on a bridge leading to a public library, preventing visitors from coming in. Marissa helped it back to the surrounding habitat.

This Western Diamondback Rattlesnake didn’t even uncoil as Nikolaus gently moved it from its resting place at the base of this tree into the bucket.
A common question: “Why don’t the snakes ever strike the tongs?”.
Answer: because we are using them as intended … very gently, with just enough force to control without hurting the snake. When you see photos out there online of tongs being misused with excess force is when the snakes bite at the device that is causing them injury.

Another backyard in Tucson that won’t be visited by rattlesnakes, installed by our team of licensed, insured rattlesnake experts. Nate and Michael killing it down there.

A large Western Diamondback Rattlesnake hanging out near the front door of a Tucson home the other day. Dave relocated it to a packrat nest, which is a perfect relocation situation. These nests are often used for cover at any time of year, and will allow the snake to carefully re-enter its home range on its own timeline.

A Western Diamondback Rattlesnake living in rock crevices at a property near Tucson. Spring is mating time for many rattlesnakes, and the odds of finding a second snake in association with the one called in is much higher this time of year.

This Sonoran Gophersnake was called in as a rattlesnake, which is a common misidentification and easy to make. The concern was, once it was captured, to make sure it could be safe from the dogs, so it was moved a short distance.

More about why we sometimes relocate harmless snakes: https://rattlesnakesolutions.com/snakeblog/rattlesnake-solutions/why-relocate-harmless-snakes/

An adult female Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was found surprisingly deep into a neighborhood near Tucson. She was relocated to a carefully-selected spot.

This small Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was found in a courtyard in Anthem, Arizona the other night. It was relocated to a packrat nest, to re-orient itself with its homerange on its own terms at a later time.

An expertly-installed rattlesnake fencing project with a standard double-gate. This is the difficult part that is often overlooked.

An easter-egg hunt found something else instead. This Sonoran Gophersnake was also looking for eggs (real ones) but ended up getting a free ride off-premises.

Marissa carefully working with a large Western Diamondback Rattlesnake, using two tools to help distribute its weight to safely capture without risking injury to the snake.

After a likely rattlesnake was spotted in some bricks by a homeowner in Surprise, Marissa got to play our favorite game: Spicy Jenga. She caught the snake in question, and found a little one that went along for the ride as well.

Snake Removal and Rattlesnake Fence Updates

Posted on April 5, 2024April 5, 2024 by Bryan Hughes

A quick Western Diamondback Rattlesnake relocation from this situation near Marana the other day. The snake was likely hibernating within or near the box, taking advantage of a little sun before its primary spring activities.

The first snake removal of 2024 for CJ! The homeowners were getting ready for bed when one went into the kitchen and heard a rattle. The front entry door was cracked open slightly due to the wind, and this small Western Diamondback Rattlesnake decided to pop in. CJ caught it with no issue and released it into a deep granite cave shaded by mesquite on a wash terrace.

This was in Ahwatukee earlier in the week.

This small Sonoran Gophersnake was called in as a rattlesnake stuck in the garage. After moving some things around, Marissa discovered it tucked into some plastic. Learning that gophersnakes are harmless and great pest control, the homeowner opted to have it released back to his property.

The number one negative comment left on our socials about our snake fencing: “there’s nothing there, they can get right in”. Thank you!

These make our day, proving the point of just how little rattlesnake prevention will visually impact the view. Just visible here in the sunlight, you can see the smooth steel mesh applied by Brent on a recent rattlesnake fence installation project.

This little Sonoran Gophersnake was called in as a rattlesnake, fleeing to hide in a rosemary right before Marissa arrived. She found the little one and was able to grab it right before it disappeared. They watched the sunset together in Ahwatukee before it was released to carefully selected habitat.

It’s a little early in the year for front door snakes, but this one was likely displaced by recent heavy rain. It was relocated to a carefully selected spot to dry off.

We’re nearing the end of ‘garage snake’ season. This was a repeat visit to this home for Marissa, but the first inside the garage. Its head was just poking out when she arrived, making for an easy capture and release.

This Western Diamondback Rattlesnake had been seen hanging around over the past few weeks. The last few sightings were getting closer to the building where people come and go, so it was time to be relocated to elsewhere within its homerange. Marissa gently captured and relocated it to a carefully selected location.

No rattlesnakes were found on a recent property inspection, but Marissa did find a couple of shed skins. One was from a harmless coachwhip, but the other was left by a Western Diamondback Rattlesnake. The property was informed on the situation and what can be done to reduce future encounters.

To schedule a property inspection, email inspection@rattlesnakesolutions.com

Some rodent activity was noted during a recent property inspection. A detailed report about various, similar activity and other situations that likely have contributed to recent rattlesnake sightings and possible remedies were delivered to the homeowner. This is part of a regularly-scheduled property inspection service, which has shown to greatly reduce snake activity over time at even the most snake-friendly locations.

To schedule a property inspection, email inspection@rattlesnakesolutions.com

It’s hard to see, but there’s a Western Diamondback Rattlesnake hiding out behind the trash bins at this Tucson home. It was a very short crawl from deep cover where it had likely spent the winter. Dave was called out to relocate it to a staging area adjacent to a suitable replacement hibernacula.

A homeowner in Tucson heard her three dogs “going crazy”. Fortunately, all of them had undergone rattlesnake aversion training, and had kept their distance despite the interest in the visiting rattlesnake. Dave was called out to relocate the snake to a better situation for all involved.

A Western Diamondback Rattlesnake hiding out in the provided shade of a covered patio near Tucson. It was relocated to a better situation within its estimated homerange.

Barely visible and installed by professionals – this backyard won’t have to worry about the rattlesnake encounters of previous summers.

Nikolaus was called out to capture this Western Diamondback Rattlesnake that looked to have been displaced by the heavy rain. This was in a Tucson neighborhood, with several flooded packrat nests nearby where it had likely been staying.

With warmer temperatures come the move by rattlesnakes to become largely nocturnal. Here’s a recent one from Tucson, hanging out on a back patio. It was relocated to a carefully selected situation within its estimated home range.

Rattlesnake fencing installed by licensed, insured professionals. Share this with someone you know who could use a break from worrying about rattlesnakes in their own backyard.

Dave visited a place near Marana that had a rattlesnake a few days before, but found another stuck in the plastic cover. Pool equipment areas are common spots for rattlesnakes to den up for the winter, and this little one almost didn’t get to see the springtime. With some patience, Dave got it free and found a nice packrat nest for it to rest and contemplate its recent decisions.

Bryce went out for a call in Stetson Valley for a small snake cruising around in the entry of a garage. He found a Desert Nightsnake, a small and harmless species common in semi-urbanized areas. He found a good spot for it to safely continue looking for geckos and whatnot.

Lizard rescue! During a recent Property Inspection, Dave found a pair of Western Banded Geckos unprepared for the mass of rain. He helped them to a nearby dry hiding spot to return when the floods receded.

A big male Western Diamondback Rattlesnake did not appreciate being captured and unimpressed with Dave moving him from a front patio vantage point. Regardless, he eventually ended up making due with deep cover beneath some cactus within its estimated home range. Sorry dude.

A healthy, small Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was found hiding out under some stuff on the back patio near Tucson. It was relocated to a safer spot.

A large Western Diamondback Rattlesnake found under some patio furniture in Phoenix. These kinds of chairs aren’t suitable for rattlesnakes to really live under long-term, but make a great “camping” spot for a day.

A Western Diamondback Rattlesnake found in a garage recently. There are a lot of encounters just outside garages this time of year, as snakes that had likely been hiding in them for awhile finally start to make movements out and away. This one was relocated to a carefully selected situation within its estimated home range.

Bucket snakes! Here is some diversity of the Western Diamondback Rattlesnake. This is, as you may have noticed, the most commonly encountered snake in the area.

Western Diamondback Rattlesnake in a bucket waiting for relocation.

An old gate with new tricks. Brent installed rattlesnake prevention materials to this wooden gate, and rattlesnakes aren’t going to be coming in this year.

Kyle coming in with the flawless dual gate rattlesnake prevention install the other day! It’s like it was always supposed to be there.

Snake Removals and Snake Fencing Project Updates

Posted on March 20, 2024March 20, 2024 by Bryan Hughes

Justin found this young Sonoran Gophersnake at a home where it had wedged itself in poolside decorative rock. It had recently eaten, so extra care was given to gentle handling and a carefully selected release site.

A home in Marana has a rattlesnake den in the back, and Dave had visited three times to find and move them to a better situation. These situations can be complex, since relocating an animal still in the late stages of hibernation demand particular criteria for successful release.

A neighbor had called the fire department the day before, though without this careful selection of replacement hibernacula, a snake crawls right back from where it’s dumped alongside the roadway to its home.

A really nice looking Western Diamondback Rattlesnake! Jeff found this one under a lantana next to a rock pile, where it had likely spent the winter. It was relocated to a suitable new den site.

New home, ready for summer in Arizona without that whole rattlesnake thing getting in the way. HOA compliant and installed by our licensed, bonded, insured and experienced team.

This rattlesnake was hibernating in the garage.

When the homeowner backed her car out of the garage, she noticed a little rattlesnake was in there as well. The snake went to hide in some nearby stuff and that’s where Marissa found it when she arrived. Some gaps at the edges of the garage doors are how it had been coming and going.

Relocated to a carefully selected replacement den.

This Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was hiding out in a poison trap made for rodents for a few days, and still there when Marissa went out to capture it. Thankfully, it had not eaten anything, and would not die as a result or poison predators in the area. The irony is not lost here of rodent control killing off the more effective, natural, and free rodent control.

A condo homeowner found a rattlesnake under the grill cover on their patio. The homeowner’s dog had a swollen face, likely due to a snake bite. The condo is located near South Mountain Preserve, and a dead mouse was found earlier. The homeowner took the dog to the vet and removed the snake. The incident happened in Ahwatukee.

Please note: we do not follow up on the condition of pets after bites, typically. It’s a sensitive situation and aside from offering information at request, we respect the privacy of the homeowner.

Well, this is a new one. We were called out for a snake making sounds behind a dryer in the home. When Marissa got there, she found a bird stuck in the vent! She took it outside, and it flew off.

Brent finished up this gate so that rattlesnakes can no longer enter. No gaps exist anywhere greater than 1/4″, and the function of the gate is not changed at all. Installed by licensed, bonded, insured rattlesnake prevention professionals.

A young Western Diamondback Rattlesnake hiding out in a warehouse was caught by Dave the other day. It had likely spent the winter inside, and was found in its early spring movements. Dave found a better winter spot for it.

Dave’s first call of the year that was something other than a Western Diamondback Rattlesnake – a young Sonoran Gophersnake had succeeded in getting a springtime meal. It was released into appropriate habitat within its estimated homerange.

A homeowner called our Tucson snake removal hotline (520-308-6211) but lost sight of the snake soon after. Thinking he’d have to search for it, Nikolaus went out to get started … but the snake made itself known right away. This Mojave Rattlesnake looks to have come from a nearby new development, and likely displaced. A much better situation was found for it.

Another backyard ready for summer with a professionally installed rattlesnake fence.

A rattlesnake had overwintered in a rodent / erosion hole under pavement in an industrial area, and was seen on the move nearby. Marissa was able to get there in time to capture it and help get it to a safer situation for all involved.

A gorgeous Mojave Rattlesnake was hanging out in the supplied snake housing at a construction site in Mesa. Thankfully a worker saw it before reaching in, and called us out to help. This snake, likely displaced by the blading of a large section of desert for development, was moved to native desert nearby.

A rattlesnake was found taking cover under a bush in the front yard after initially being spotted in the driveway. Marissa went to north Phoenix to relocate this one back to native habitat.

From the outside, you’d never know this gate has been modified to prevent rattlesnakes from getting into the yard. HOA compliant, licensed, bonded, insured, and all that good stuff.

Arizona Snake Removal and Snake Fence Updates

Posted on March 13, 2024March 13, 2024 by Bryan Hughes

We’re busy again! Spring is here and the 2024 rattlesnake season is underway. Here is some of what we’ve been up to:

The homeowner pulled into the driveway and noticed a rattlesnake outside. When they tried to scared it away, it retreated into the garage … where it’d likely been hibernating for a few months. Marissa helped it find a better den to finish its pre-spring behavior, and the homeowners now know there’s a gap in the garage door that can allow things like this.

The night before, the homeowner heard a rattle when he let the dog out. In the morning he called and Marissa was sent out. A Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was hiding out in this corner by a raised dog bed. Cave Creek, Arizona

A Scottsdale homeowner was putting something away when he was buzzed by a rattlesnake hiding in a cabinet. The day before, he spotted a rattlesnake outdoors and left it alone, not realizing it had been hibernating in the garage. It was safely relocated to a suitable replacement den.

This gate has been modified to prevent rattlesnakes from gaining entry into this backyard. If you know someone who should meet our team of snake nerds to keep those first spring pool Saturdays rattle-free, send them our way.

Who do you want to talk to you about rattlesnake fencing? People who spend every waking free minute looking for and talking about snakes their entire lives, OBVIOUSLY.

Where can you get such a person? Well, we’ve got a bunch of them. Some serious rattlesnake knowledge goes into the evaluation and installation of our rattlesnake fencing. Jeff has joined our sales team, to help homeowners in Tucson find safety in their own backyards.

Yesterday, he and Jill gave a presentation for a local community so homeowners can be knowledgeable as we enter another busy rattlesnake season. Our team provides presentations like these to communities at no cost as part of our overall mission to keep snakes and people safe from one another.

If you don’t know Jeff, you can see his work with snakes all over our youtube channel: https://youtube.com/c/rattlesnakesolutions

A new puppy had just come to the household, so the homeowners walked the yard prior to letting the little out for the first time. It’s good they did! A Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was crusing around the yard, eventually disappearing into a drian hole. Marissa was able to find it, and relocated it to a better spot.

An early morning call to north Phoenix – a homeowner was headed to the gym when he spotted a visitor slither into the garage when the door opened. It’s a Sonoran Gophersnake, thankfully.

The landscapers spotted this little Western Diamondback Rattlesnake who had been hibernating in a gap between the home and the surrounding block wall. It was relocated to a suitable replacement den.

This kind of gap is exactly the kind of thing that is sealed up during the snake fence installation process, if anyone’s wondering 😉

One of many properties we’ve helped to have a rattlesnake-free 2024.

More information on Rattlesnake Fencing: https://rattlesnakesolutions.com/keep-snakes-away/snake-fence.php?p=social

The homeowner had just let his dog out when he heard what sounded like an automatic sprinkler start up. He got the pup inside and saw a rattlesnake crawling under the grill to hide. Marissa went out to relocate it, and found that nearby, there was a shed with packrat activity all around. As we know from thousands of relocations: packrat homes are rattlesnake homes. On the hike out to release the rattlesnake, she ran into a bonus kingsnake!

While hanging out on the back patio, a homeowner in Cave Creek noticed a rattlesnake was also enjoying the evening.

This adult Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was found in a Scottsdale yard hiding out in a rosemary bush.

Ironically, rosemary is often touted as a deterrent to rattlesnakes, but the low ground cover and heavy leaf-litter make them ideal rattlesnake homes. When combined with a large boulder or two, a rattlesnake can make a long term home that can escape evasion for years.

It’s just barely visible even from this short distance, but this backyard will not have “rattlesnake encounter” on the list of exciting times for 2024.

Arizona Snake Removal Updates, February 2024

Posted on March 5, 2024March 5, 2024 by Bryan Hughes

A very defensive Western Diamondback Rattlesnake with a lot of size on it for February hid its head after the stressful event of being captured. Nick released it into a safe place with enough rodent activity to sustain its healthy weight.

These can be more complicated than expected due to the easy climb opportunities, but this style of fence can also be modified to keep rattlesnakes out by providing a smooth surface to certain specifications. This property north of Phoenix will have an easier summer than last year.

More information on Rattlesnake Fencing: https://rattlesnakesolutions.com/keep-snakes-away/snake-fence.php

A couple of early season relocation calls from Dave in Tucson this week. – A Western Diamondback Rattlesnake that spent the winter in a water control box, and a Desert Spiny Lizard that got itself stuck in a dryer vent (no injury but it’s pride).

A large male Western Diamondback Rattlesnake that was found by the family dog (the dog is fine). Dave was out there in January and found a female, and this male was not present. In developed areas, hibernaculum can be complicated, and lone snakes often make due with whatever is around. This one may have been at a neighbor’s house. The property was searched and the snake relocated to a suitable replacement hibernation spot.

A pest control guy found a rattlesnake under some debris near a packrat nest, and the homeowner called us to have the snake removed. Dave went out and was not only able to find the snake, but recognized the situation as a likely den, and was able to extract a second snake. The homeowner was informed of the situation and how to prevent future visits from rattlesnakes (and therefore visits from Dave, too). Both snakes were moved to a suitable replacement hibernacula.

An essential part of any new build in desert-adjacent areas: professionally installed rattlesnake fencing. Working within both the physical limitations of rattlesnake biology and the HOAs where these homes are often found, this pool area will see a lot of fun and safe summer evenings in the future.

One of a pair of Western Diamondback Rattlesnakes relocated by Dave in the Tucson area this week. This one, a baby, was born last summer and survived its first winter. Thanks to rational homeowners, it will get to see its first spring.

An adult Western Diamondback Rattlesnake that Bryce picked up at a home in the Phoenix area this week. He was relocated to a suitable replacement den.

This Sonoran Gophersnake was crossing the road in front of some dog walkers in Ahwatukee. It made its way to hang out against a garage door by the time Marissa arrived to help it get back to the desert.

Wood-slatted gates on pavers leave a lot of gaps that rattlesnakes can get through. Brent attached smooth surfaces and filled in the rest so that this gate is now ready to keep rattlesnakes out for years to come. From the outside, it looks exactly the same as it always did.

Phoenix Snake Removal Activity Updates

Posted on February 16, 2024February 16, 2024 by Bryan Hughes

This one was called in as a baby rattlesnake, but ended up being a baby Sonoran Gophersnake with a particularly high-contrast pattern. This one is showing off one of its talents that make them able to get into any property, and why our Rattlesnake Fencing is called “rattlesnake fencing” and not “snake fencing”. Of course these are harmless animals, so things work out just fine.

An addition to this fencing to make pool time in 2024 more relaxing: – Prevents entry of all rattlesnake species in the area, of any size – Barely visible from a short distance – Compliant with most HOA regulations, or can be worked with to accommodate

Baby rattlesnakes are little, and the little details matter. This gap between the home and wall that was sealed up as part of a recent rattlesnake fence installation is one of the things most often overlooked by landscapers and other various non-snake people that would make a backyard a snake trap unless done properly.

This is what sustainable rattlesnake conservation looks like: a matter of 40′. One one side, a safe area for a family to enjoy the pool and yard all year. On the other, a desert wash rich with wildlife, free to continue life despite adjacent development. Combined with an educated community, the culture of safe cohabitation with wildlife that was once killed on sight is a reality.

More information on Rattlesnake Fencing: https://rattlesnakesolutions.com/keep-snakes-away/snake-fence.php?p=social

This is familiar – a Western Diamondback Rattlesnake hiding out in a water control box over the winter, as discovered the the landscaper working on it. Dave went out to capture the snake and safely relocate it to a suitable replacement den.

Another familiar urban rattlesnake den situation – under storage boxes in the pool equipment area. These zones are often hidden away and seldom visited, which makes them ideal for rodents to take up residence and then their predators as well. Dave was called out to this home in Tucson to end up capturing two large Western Diamondback Rattlesnakes. He released them to suitable replacement hibernacula: an old packrat nest under boulders.

The first rattlesnake call for Nikolaus was in Tucson in 2024 – this nice-sized adult Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was hiding out in the garage. This situation will become much more common in late February as rattlesnakes start to stage towards the front of the structures, typically in corners next to the door.

Marissa picked up this small Western Diamondback Rattlesnake after that last 80 degree winter day a few weeks back. It had likely been within a few feet of this spot all winter.

A homeowner in Tucson found this little Western Diamondback Rattlesnake while moving a large boulder in the back yard. This is likely where this small snake had been hibernating over the winter. Nikolaus was called out to safely relocate it to a better, carefully-selected alternative den.

A recent rattlesnake fence installation was a bit of a challenge with the terrain and erosion situation, but the crew made it happen. Here’s a yard in centeral AZ that won’t be visited by rattlesnakes in 2024.

Marissa was able to save this Desert Nightsnake with its face stuck to a glue trap in Scottsdale a few days ago. The homeowner, who’d just moved into the house a few days before, said they’d be getting rid of these ASAP.

A homeowner saw a Sonoran Gophersnake in the backyard crawling around with a glue trap stuck to its neck. It went under an outdoor refridgerator, but they were able to tip it up and get the snake out. The poor thing had pulled itself free from the glue trap, but a patch of its skin came with it, exposing muscle underneath. The snake will likely heal and be ok, but these situations often go the other way.

Snake Removal Updates, Late 2023

Posted on January 25, 2024January 25, 2024 by Bryan Hughes

A tavern in Cave Creek backs up to a narrow wash and an electrical box that has a large packrat nest underneath. This Western Diamondback Rattlesnake found this useful, and made an appearance as the crew was closing up for the night.

With newly installed rattlesnake fencing that includes the gates, and brush cleared several feet from the edge of the wall, this home doesn’t have much to worry about with rattlesnakes this coming season.

More information on Rattlesnake Fencing: https://rattlesnakesolutions.com/keep-snakes-away/snake-fence.php?p=social

This is a big rattlesnake! It was living at an apartment complex in a pretty urbanized area, with a bit of native land still remaining nearby.

After working more than an hour to capture an adult Western Diamondback Rattlesnake found in a backyard, Bryce found a second snake on the road crawling into the property just as he was leaving … in the bucket you go little one. Along the way to the release site, a third was spotted crossing the road. It was helped to safety, then the others were relocated to a carefully selected spot. Busy night!

This gate has been modified to keep rattlesnakes out of the courtyard. From the front, it’s hard to tell anything has been done at all.

Weeks before this Longnosed Snake was found in a glue trap in a garage, a rattlesnake was found in the same situation. Another snake, a juvenile gophersnake, was also stuck in one and was already dead. These traps can increase the rate of snake encounter, while eliminating natural predators of the intended targets. If you have these in the garage right now, safe yourself a few bucks and some encounters and let the pest control guy know they’re no longer needed.

Two rattlesnakes were found courting in an, appropriately named, courtyard. Marissa helped them to a better situation where they could continue the important task of making more little rattlesnakes without interruption.

Some visitors to Arizona from the midwest found that their airbnb was double booked, as this Sonoran Gophersnake was hanging out in a gap in the garage. This was not listed in the amenities. Marissa went out to help figure out the situation and get the snake to a suitable replacement spot.

CJ picked up this Western Diamondback Rattlesnake in Cave Creek recently and found a perfect relose location underneath a dead mesquite tree. Just after the release, he saw another rattlesnake in ambush right at his feet. While that’s a great indication of having selected the right spot, it’s a reminder that the snake we’re working with is not the one we have to watch out for the most.

Nick was able to find this coachwhip hiding in a tight gap in a garage, and even get it out without being bitten. He released it to a perfect situation nearby where it can continue to eat everything it finds (including rattlesnakes).

More about why we sometimes relocate harmless snakes: https://rattlesnakesolutions.com/snakeblog/rattlesnake-solutions/why-relocate-harmless-snakes/

A Mojave Rattlesnake from north Phoenix. I twas sitting next to a large pot on the home’s front step, where it didn’t make a sound or move as it was walked past several times. Yet another example of how these snakes don’t live up to the ‘hyper-aggressive’ reputation.

A 2 for 1 rattlesnake removal. While doing some home maintenance, a homeowner was rattled by what was assumed to be one Western Diamondback Rattlesnake under the pool heater. Nick went out to capture it, but thought the spot looked too good for just one snake … so he kept at it and several minutes later, a second snake emerged. These hiding spots can be important and understanding the behavior of these animals is very important to make sure things are done properly. Both were relocated to a site that emulates the one in which they were found, and the homeowner knows what can be done to prevent this in the future.

A pair of Western Diamondback Rattlesnake were found mating in a yard and both were captured at once without breaking them up. It’s a good example, too, of the color variation that can occur between individuals within the same population. Nick relocated them together to finish making more baby rattlesnakes.

As Nick pulled into the driveway to catch a Western Diamondback Rattlesnake spotted in on an tennis court, he found another rattlesnake crossing the road. Both were relocated safely to a site that would emulate the situation that these snakes were looking for in the backyard.

Some calls are more interesting than others. This Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was found about 4′ off the ground on a garage work bench. It likely climbed up there along a vacuum stored just to the right. Thankfully the homeowner spotted it in time and Nick was able to get out there to resolve the situation safely.

This guy crashed a party in east Scottsdale, at a home against the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. Sorry guy; invited guests only for this one. CJ gave it a ride to a packrat nest that was probably less fun.

A Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was found using the pool pump area at a home in Cave Creek. When it was being relocated,at the site CJ selected, another rattlesnake was already hanging out. That’s a great indication that the methods of release site selection are what they should be.

Some Western Diamondback Rattlesnakes from recent relocations.

This was a tough one. Marissa was able to get this snake out of the plastic netting safely (for both her and the snake). Though it has a superficial injury, it will be just fine after a shed skin or two.

Concrete and steel, along with some other adjustments, make this gate part of the best rattlesnake prevention that exists. Rattlesnake fencing installed by licensed, insured professionals can make a huge difference for the safety and enjoyability of a backyard in Arizona.

A homeowner got a shock when whe welcome mat started rattling at her! Bryce went out to discover a Western Diamondback Rattlesnake hiding under it. You can see the lump here.

A snake fence project just completed. Using black steel and mesh makes it fit the aesthetic and works with HOA guidelines to provide rattlesnake prevention while keeping things looking great. This home is going into 2024 rattlesnake season easier than last year.

This rattlesnake was spotted in the yard by the homeowner and retreated to a space under patio furniture, which is where Bryce found it when he arrived. Relocated safely to a better situation based on the species, condition, and time of year.

A 3am call from Phoenix sent CJ out to a home find a Sonoran Gophersnake cruising around in a dining room. This is in an urbanized area with a canal and habitat on the other side, though these snakes do quite well in entirely developed places. The snake was relocated the next morning to a network of deep caves shaded by large creosote near a wash.

This Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was found near the front door on Halloween night, and relocated by Derek. He got some kingsized candy bars too (Derek, not the snake).

From Dave on Halloween “This little Goblin found a Ghoul place to hide under some Halloween inflatables.”

As spring approaches, rattlesnakes denning in garages will start to spend more time near the entrance, making small movements between the winter hiding spots and the door. This staging behavior often creates small tracks and clear spots among the typical dust and debris in these corners, so even when a snake is not present, we can tell if a snake is likely in the garage. This small Western Diamondback Rattlesnake relocated by Dave a couple of months ago demonstrates this behavior.

The days before Halloween can be busy for our team. As snakes are moving into their winter dens, activity spikes just after dark. This can make for some complicated situations. Fortunately, this Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was spotted before the subsequent days trick or treating activity.

Some snake fencing jobs require a lot of trenching! An essential part of effective rattlesnake prevention is to control rodent activity that could compromise a perimeter fence. We have some great methods that make rodents give up quickly, though it can make for a long day for the team. Brent did a great job on this one.

When the kids went into the garage at this Fountain Hills home, they were greeted by a rattle. This Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was hiding out under the shoe rack. The door to the garage is left open frequently, making for easy access to a “cave” for a snake looking to spend the winter somewhere safe. Marissa relocated this snake safely.

Rattlesnake, meet monkey.

This poor little Patchnosed Snake was stuck on a floaty because it couldn’t climb out of the pool. Some nearby desert was just bladed, which may be what sent this little one wandering. Thankfully the homeowners saw it and Marissa was able to set the little guy back into better, drier, surroundings.

This Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was hanging out in an elevator shaft of an underground parking garage. It’s not known how it got there, but thankfully it was in-reach so Marissa could capture it. I wonder how many skeletons are at the bottom?

The homeowner stepped outside and saw this Western Diamondback Rattlesnake in this spot. This one was in Sun Lakes, a spot we aren’t often called to get rattlesnakes. It was relocated successfully.

This little Western Banded Gecko was saved from a pool skimmer on a property inspection.

Old gate with new tricks. Rattlesnake fencing was installed on this gate, meeting HOA guidelines, and providing protection to a yard that would otherwise be prone to rattlesnake visits.

The homeowners let their dogs out and noticed a baby Speckled Rattlesnake hanging out on the patio. They weren’t quite sure if it was a rattlesnake or not when they called, and thankfully they did. It was hiding out in a wood stack and bricks near the home, which it was likely using for the winter. Marissa relocated it to a carefully selected replacement hibernacula.

Thankfully, the homeowner walked into the garage and noticed this snake stuck in a blue trap. Marissa was able to carefully free the little snake and release it elsewhere unharmed.

A large Western Diamondback Rattlesnake that had found a space int he foundation of this home to spend the winter. Bryce found a better spot for it.

Brent from our rattlesnake fence installation team walked past this Western Diamondback Rattlesnake numerous times before spotting her. Bryce went out to get it and Jill released it. Perfect timing for that snake fence!

A Western Diamondback Rattlesnake found in a Tucson backyard. Unfortunately, this snake had bitten the dog before being discovered – thankfully the dog will recover fully, and the snake was taken elsewhere.

Western Diamondback Rattlesnake as found in a Scottsdale backyard.

This was a fun one. Kyle was called out to find this Western Diamondback Rattlesnake joyriding a homeowner’s Can-Am.

This Western Diamondback Rattlesnake ended up with its head stuck in duct tape. Dave and Nikolous were able to carefully free it and release without any harm done to anyone involved.

CJ picked up this little Western Diamondback Rattlesnake in late November on a patio in Scottsdale. Most of the rattlesnakes we are catching now, in late January, have been at the homes where they’re found since at least then. It was relocated to a suitable replacement hibernacula.

This Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was found hibernating in a mini-fridge in Waddell. It was relocated to a better spot to finish up its winter.

A call to our hotline for a baby rattlesnake ended up as a small Desert Nightsnake. These harmless worm-sized snakes are often found inside homes throughout the year, and are perfectly harmless. CJ released it to a better spot to spend the winter.

Do you see it? Recent rain has forced some rattlesnakes to escape their preferred sites and left with less than ideal hiding spots.

Snake Removal Updates

Posted on January 2, 2024January 2, 2024 by Bryan Hughes

This little Western Diamondback Rattlesnake found its way into a garage. It would have likely stayed there all winter if the homeowner hadn’t seen it. It was relocated to a better situation for overwintering.

A lantana provided perfect cover for a young Western Diamondback Rattlesnake to escape the weird primates all around it. Bryce went out to relocate the snake to a safe situation, and saw this Longnosed Snake along the way.

From Bryce: “This diamondback had ambitions of competing with the pros in a cycling competition, though I had to inform him without legs he would have a tough time reaching the pedals. He disagreed, and was adamant he’d have a shot in the big leagues. After a bit of back and forth in a north phoenix garage, he was moved to a pack rat nest away from homes and bicycles, much to his dismay.”

Some snakes from recent removal calls.

A Western Diamondback Rattlesnake outside a home in the north valley, relocated to a better overwintering spot by Bryce.

A Western Diamondback Rattlesnake found under a cabinet in the garage. These locations are common over-winter spots for rattlesnakes. Derek relocated this one safely to a suitable replacement den.

A Western Diamondback Rattlesnake found crawling around in the backyard, likely associated with a winter den. It was captured and safely relocated to a suitable situation.

Bryce was called out to capture a rattlesnake found in a backyard. During the walk to the carefully selected release spot, he saw two more Western Diamondback Rattlesnakes. This is an indication that he used a good place. This process of finding a release location based on the animal and situation is critical to this process, and unfortunately, surprisingly, rare in the practice.

We were called to a home near South Mountain for a large rattlesnake on a patio. The home was built on metal framing providing just enough of a gap for snakes to estivate underneath and by the time I had gotten there, the snake had headed back under. When I went to get it out, a gophersnake head quickly popped out to investigate me and took advantage of the free water offered. Though tough to see, in the first pic both snakes are visible. Bryce was able to coax the diamondback out, who was indeed a very large snake, likely around 4’+ I found him a nice mammal burrow to take advantage of elsewhere.

A Western Diamondback Rattlesnake found crawling around in the backyard, likely associated with a winter den. It was captured and safely relocated to a suitable situation.

This gate has been modified to prevent rattlesnakes from getting in, from the smallest newborn to the largest that can be found. Licensed gate work like this is essential to any rattlesnake prevention project.

A little Western Diamondback Rattlesnake recovered from a home in Phoenix who’d been successful in finding prey. It was relocated safely.

Bryce was able to coax this Western Diamondback Rattlesnake out from its den under a slab of concrete. The space had been excavated by erosion and rodents over the years, making a perfect artificial hibernacula.

A Western Diamondback Rattlesnake found a nice little hiding spot at a retirement community in the Phoenix area. It was captured and returned to the desert.

If you’re in charge of safety at your workplace and rattlesnakes show up from time to time, ask about our emergency account services. We can be available to your team 24/7 without all the paperwork and chain of approval to make sure situations like this can always be taken care of as fast as they need to be.

This Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was not especially happy to be moved from this nice little rock pile, but it had to be done. When the day heated up, it have likely moved to its suspected longer-term home: the lantana in the background. While the rocks are useful to the snake in this situation, the lantana is the real problem.

Pool toy boxes are common places for us to find rattlesnakes, like this Western Diamondback Rattlesnake captured recently. This can largely be negated by simply moving the location of the pool box periodically, to prevent long-term rodent habitation and disrupt inbound scent networks. Move the box 10′ for 6 months, then move it back, and you’ll be less likely to call us.

Snake Removal Updates for Early December 2023

Posted on December 14, 2023December 14, 2023 by Bryan Hughes

We’re still predictably a bit slow, but of course there’s lots to catch up on and still a few snake removal calls a day. As always, if you need help, give us a call:

24/7 Snake Removal & Prevention:

Phoenix-metro: 480-237-9975

Tucson-metro: 520-308-6211