Snake Removal Stories – Rattlesnakes and the People of Arizona

These four Southwestern Speckled Rattlesnakes were captured in the same location over a couple of visits. We implanted passive radio transmitters and released them together to carefully selected microhabitat. We’ll see them again, but most likely in a subsequent survey of the release canyon than any other scenario.

Marissa caught this feisty Western Patchnosed Snake in front of a business in Ahwatukee. She managed to get it out of some bushes and release it to a better situation.

More on the Western Patchnosed Snake (Salvadora hexalepis ssp.)
https://rattlesnakesolutions.com/WesternPatchnosedSnake

A Southwestern Speckled Rattlesnake rattled at an Ahwatukee homeowner as they entered the garage. The door had been left open the day before, providing an easy hiding spot to stay out of the sun for the day. It was captured safely and relocated back to suitable habitat.

More on the Southwestern Speckled Rattlesnake (Crotalus pyrrhus)
https://rattlesnakesolutions.com/SpeckledRattlesnake

Another rattlesnake fence installation that is difficult to see without specifically looking for it. There are a lot of fence styles out there, each with its own necessary methods and materials to make sure the rattlesnake-excluding standards we’ve developed are in place.

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

Why were the quail at this Fountain Hills home going nuts? The rattlesnake hiding in the bush! It was relocated safely.

It’s toad time! These two Sonoran Desert Toads had been hanging out in backyards for a few weeks. With a couple of dogs in the yard, they got a ride to another situation where they can survive. These toads can be very dangerous to dogs.

This Western Diamondback Rattlesnake took a dive when trying to get a drink, and wasn’t able to get out. Thankfully the homeowners spotted it and called Bryce out to help it to a better situation.

A young Western Diamondback Rattlesnake from a Cave Creek back patio. The homeowners were scheduled to have rattlesnake fencing installed, and this little one thought he’d get one last time in the yard before it’s a no-rattlesnakes zone. Bryce relocated it to a carefully selected location.

A courtyard with materials added to deny entry to rattlesnakes in an inviting, shaded area.

A gravid (pregnant) Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was spotted cruising around the shaded area near a pool. When it’s this hot, these situations emulate natural aestivation areas and rattlesnakes are often encountered at homes. She was safely captured by our team and relocated to a carefully selected microhabitat to wait out the heat and eventually give birth.

One of our favorites, and not one we relocate too often considering how common they are: a Tiger Rattlesnake! Dave relocated this one from guest housing at a Tucson area golf resort. Despite the guest’s demands that it be “dispatched”, the resort know what’s up and helped Dave find a suitable site to relocate the snake.

A few recent Western Diamondback Rattlesnakes as found by Dave on recent relocation calls around Tucson.

A Southwestern Speckled Rattlesnake seen by an Ahwatukee homeowner as they pulled into their driveway. It then went into the backyard and cruised around for a bit before coming back to the front, which is where Marissa found it upon arrival. It was safely relocated to carefully selected habitat.

A Western Diamondback Rattlesnake found in a hallway of an apartment complex in Phoenix. Many of these new complexes are built adjacent to large areas of state land and provide rattlesnake-friendly landscaping. The inevitable, and optional, result are encounters like this. The snake was safely relocated and no others were found.

An interesting Southwestern Speckled Rattlesnake found at a home in Ahwatukee. It’s pattern is disrupted in several places, leaving open patches of orange on its head and and an overall more mottled, chaotic pattern than is typical in the area. The tongue is also pink with white tips.

A Western Diamondback Rattlesnake in a Cave Creek backyard enjoying the cool lawn. When it’s hot, it’s not uncommon for us to be called out to capture rattlesnakes sitting in the wide open like this, usually right after the sprinklers have finished up. I think right now anyone in Arizona would do the same 😉

A little Western Diamondback Rattlesnake taking advantage of a shady spot with a little added moisture under a hose. Marana, AZ.

Do a kick flip! A radical little Western Diamondback Rattlesnake in an Oro Valley garage.

While releasing a rattlesnake after a recent capture in Oro Valley, Nik saw confirmation that he was in suitable habitat for the species and time of year – a Western Diamondback Rattlesnake coiled in ambush, waiting for a rodent or bird to come along. While we normally never disturb situations like this, the snake was on a busy trail frequented by runners, so it was moved a short distance as well.

A small Mojave rattlesnake on a doorstep near Three Points. The home, which didn’t exist a month prior, will likely experience continued encounters with confused wildlife for several years. Landscaping decisions, rattlesnake fencing, and continued education can be essential aspects of safe and sustainable coexistence in such situations. Nik relocated this one to suitable microhabitat.

This Western Diamondback Rattlesnakehad managed to go up a dozen steps to the front door to hang out. Justin helped find it a better spot.

A recent rattlesnake fence project completed in the Tucson area.

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

A Western Diamondback Rattlesnake in a corner near a front door. This is a surprisingly common situation. Despite this, the homeowners typically discover the snake on the way BACK, having stepped over it initially. This one was safely captured and relocated by Dave in Tucson.

A Western Diamondback Rattlesnake in ambush in some erosion control rocks in a Tucson front yard. Relocated to a better situation.

Our Tucson hotline got a call for a Sonoran Gophersnake stuck in a rodent trap along with an unknown second reptile. Dave was able to free the snake, which has a good chance of recovering despite some broken ribs. The other was a Tiger Whiptail lizard, which was also carefully removed. Both were given water, which they quickly drank up, before they went off into natural habitat.

A Western Diamondback Rattlesnake from Cave Creek:

Some recent rattlesnake fencing installation work from our team in Tucson. This property is ready for rattlesnake baby season.

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

This giant Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was as big as the lid of Nik’s bucket. This one wasn’t the relocated snake, however, but one he found while on the release. The presence of wild rattlesnakes at a release site is a great indicator we’ve selected the right location.

This pretty, young Mojave Rattlesnake was relocated from a residential property in the Phoenix area by Tim. As we often discuss, Mojave Rattlesnakes in our area are seldom green, with this rich brown color being more typical. While some do have a greenish tint, the common misbelief that this color is diagnostic for the species is false.

Upgrades to this outer fence will make this fall less rattlesnakey this year. From our Tucson team.

A little Western Diamondback Rattlesnakehiding out in the shade cast by a backyard grill. Relocated to a better situation by Marissa.

This Sonoran Gophersnake found a group of eggs in a Scottsdale backyard. It was safely escorted, along with its quail omelet, to suitable nearby habitat.

A tiny juvenile Gila Monster found very far into an entirely developed neighborhood. It had been seen a few weeks prior, and had managed to survive despite no nearby habitat at all. How it got to this location is a mystery.

This Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was in a Mesa warehouse, pretty far away from the nearest suitable habitat. It had to have crossed a freeway and quite a lot of entirely urbanized area to get here. Everyone, including the snake, are likely happy to have this situation resolved.

Made in the shade.

The NUMBER ONE rattlesnake fence principle:

The perimeter of a protected area must be entirely protected. Not just the gates, not just the fence along the back with the sides open … the entire thing. A partial job is not a rattlesnake deterrent but becomes an effective rattlesnake trap. If you’re talked into a partial project, the chances for a rattlesnake encounter in your backyard can actually go up dramatically.

This one is done right: all the way around, no openings at all, and using the proper materials and methods.

A little Western Diamondback Rattlesnake waiting out the heat of the day in this shady area alongside a Mesa home.

A dog found this California Kingsnake in the backyard. It went down a hole and there was some concern it wouldn’t be able to be retrieved safely … but it had apparently found a back door and was just slithering towards Marissa when she arrived. It would be great if they were all that easy.

Welcome to Scottsdale! This scene – a small Western Diamondback Rattlesnake hiding out in the corner of a shaded front entrance, is pretty common.

The homeowner already had this Southwestern Speckled Rattlesnake in a bucket by the time Marissa got there! This brightly colored snake was at a home high on a hillside of rock the same color. It was tagged and released within the preserve to carefully selected microhabitat.

Some free water in the backyard was a great resource for this Speckled Ratlesnake. After it had been there for a few days, the homeowners decided it should move along.

Marissa took it to seasonally appropriate microhabitat for the species. This careful consideration during the relocation process is essential for the animal to survive.

A north Phoenix homeowner saw this small Western Diamondback Rattlesnake crawl into the garage through a gap take a rest in the corner. The snake was carefully relocated, and “fix the garage door” was added to the weekend task list.

Arizona Snake Removal Stories

A Desert Nightsnake got stuck in a garage sticky tarp. Thankfully, it was found in time to be saved and relocated elsewhere. These small, entirely harmless snakes are often killed in traps like this. Ironically, they are predators of the pests that the traps are meant for, possibly resulting in a net negative effect towards the original goal.

A homeowner spotted a Gila Monster scampering into the garage when the door opened. It retreated under a car, and stayed there in a defensive mode. Nik was called out to help it back to the nearby hillside. While he was releasing it, he saw another one 🙂

Dave ran out to get this Western Diamondback Rattlesnake, which was tucked away in a cactus. A few years before, he was at the this property and removed a mating pair from the same exact spot.

Rattlesnake Fence installation, designed and tested specifically for Arizona rattlesnakes. Here’s a recent project in the Tucson area, completed top to bottom by avid herpers.

One of several Sonoran Desert Sidewinders moved off a roadway by Dave a few weeks back. This one coiled in front of a rodent burrow instead of retreating.

The first rattlesnake seen by a homeowner in decades of living in the Tucson desert. They followed the snake to a hiding spot, where Dave was able to find it and relocate it to a better situation.

Some serious mastery going on here with our Tucson rattlesnake fence install crew. Keeping rattlesnakes out of the yard doesn’t mean it has to look bad.

While Jeff was checking out a property to write up a Rattlesnake Fence estimate, he noticed the reason for his visit: a Western Diamondback Rattlesnake hiding out in a drainblock. Jeff caught the snake, relocated it to another area, and then emailed an estimate and description of work that would prevent such situations in the future. It helps to have a crew that really knows their snakes!

A homeowner near Tucson followed a Western Diamondback Rattlesnake, which eventually settled in under some boxes in the yard. Dave was called out to capture the rattlesnake and search the property. He also found a California Kingsnake cruising around in the front yard. After a discussion with the homeowner, the kingsnake stayed, and the rattlesnake was taken to a carefully selected replacement hiding spot.

From Dave: “Yesterday, and for the second year in a row, Tucson experienced some rare mid-May moisture. Showers were spotty, but heavy in some areas. This Diamondback had escaped into the corner of this porch where lots of items were stored, but the possibility of rehydrating made it throw caution to the wind despite my customer watching from a short distance away. Ah…water. It does a body good!”

Dave went out to a repeat customer’s home to retrieve this rattlesnake hiding out in the shade provided by a grill. When temperatures are like they are, any cover will do.

More recent work from the most experienced rattlesnake fence installation crew there is. Every day, more and more homeowners make the decision to live safely and at peace with the local wildlife by taking simple preventative action.

This large Arizona Black Rattlesnake was seen twice in as many days on a hillside in Dewey before calling our Prescott branch for relocation. Dane captured it safely and released to carefully selected microhabitat within its estimated home range.

The homeowner walked right by this Western Diamondback Rattlesnake coming home at night. CJ said the snake was rattling the entire time, from before he stepped out of the car to when he watched it disappear into this packrat nest.

Packrat nests are great spots for relocations much of the time. Rattlesnakes naturally use them throughout the year as hideaways. And don’t worry about the rodents – the relationship is complicated, but the rattlesnakes aren’t likely eating their roommates.

Our Tucson hotline was called by a warehouse distribution center with a snake inside the building. Dave arrived and was told that the snake dropped from the ceiling … which does happen from time to time in commercial and industrial buildings. The snake had disappeared by then, but the next day it was spotted again, and Dave was able to get out there and get it. He had expected a gophersnake or kingsnake, but instead relocated this beautiful red and black Coachwhip.

A Sonoran Gophersnake crashed a party at an AirBnB a few weeks back. The area was entirely urbanized, but gophersnakes are just fine with that. It was likely thriving at an adjacent golf course, which is where CJ returned it to.

A recent side gate with some new tricks: rattlesnake fencing installed by our crew. With no gap larger than 1/4″, even a newborn rattlesnake won’t be crawling through.

An early morning call to our Tucson line for a snake in a garage ended up being this Western Banded Gecko. This is actually not an entirely rare thing – these little guys are mistaken for everything from baby Gila Monsters to rattlesnakes.

Why are we so adamant about snake fence standards and complete perimeters? Exhibit A: a large Western Diamondback Rattlesnake we were called out to capture in a backyard with the handyman special attached to the fence. With the gates and expansion joints incomplete and other issues, the backyard had become an effective rattlesnake trap rather than a deterrent.

Why are we so adamant about snake fence standards and complete perimeters? Exhibit A: a large Western Diamondback Rattlesnake we were called out to capture in a backyard with the handyman special attached to the fence. With the gates and expansion joints incomplete and other issues, the backyard had become an effective rattlesnake trap rather than a deterrent.

No, this isn’t evidence that “snake fencing don’t work!”, but a reminder that it is specialty work with a very big drop off between correct and incorrect application. It’s something we take very seriously because of situations like this one, which we see every single day.

This Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was discovered near the shaded, walled-in area for dumpsters. The homeowners watched it crawl out, apparently searching for something. Just before Dave arrived to relocate it, the homeowner noticed what the snake was looking for nearby: a freshly killed mouse. She tossed it over near the snake, who quickly got to work swallowing it. The snake was relocated after that to a carefully selected location.

This beautiful Kingsnake with vibrant yellow bands found something to eat while Dave was on route to move it to another area.

Some recent snake relocations that AREN’T Western Diamondback Rattlesnakes. Can you identify these?

And a bunch of Western Diamondback Rattlesnakes:

A Western Diamondback Rattlesnake hanging out near a carport in Tucson. It was relocated to a better spot.

A newly sealed gate that no rattlesnake of any size will be getting through.

A Western Diamondback Rattlesnake in a common encounter location: under a trash can found on trash day morning. It’s also a reminder to wear shoes when taking out the trash, and always use a flashlight if you’re the taking-it-out-the-night-before type. This one was relocated to a better spot.

This Sonoran Gophersnake was hanging out in a garage digesting a meal when the homeowner spotted it. There were some large gaps in the garage door that allowed easy entry.

Hint: this is your reminder to check your garage doors for gaps 😉

Some recent near-deaths in glue traps, which we were fortunately able to resolve before the animals died. If you have these in your garage right now, please consider another way.

A Sonoran Gophersnake that was called in as a rattlesnake. The homeowner noticed it while taking the trash out. With a generalist pattern and tendency to make a lot of noise when defensive, it is easy to see why some might initially think these harmless snakes are rattlesnakes.

A Southwestern Speckled Rattlesnake discovered by a resident of Awhatukee while taking out the trash. These snakes are very common in the area, but like most long-term residents there, this is the first ever seen by the homeowner.

Snake Removal Updates for May, 2024

Nothing to see here … just us cables.

This Desert Nightsnake (Hypsiglena chlorophaea) was found in a Marana home behind some furniture. They’re harmless, and often found inside homes like this for a variety of reasons. It was released back to better surroundings.


Stuff stored outside can be useful to a rattlesnake. Dave relocated this Western Diamondback Rattlesnake from a situation where it was taking temporary cover on the last cold snap of the year. He released it to a carefully selected location that emulates the conditions of capture. 


CJ chased this Coachwhip around a backyard for about 5 minutes before it darted into a hesperaloe, where he spent anotherd 10 minutes trying to fish it out. He eventually got it into a bucket and relocated to deep cover within its estimated home range. 


Even from this close, the rattlesnake fencing applied to this backyard is very difficult to see. It’s easy to forget about, and so are the rattlesnakes that used to spend time hanging out on that shaded patio.

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


A coachwhip captured by Justin under a backyard grill. These fast snakes are harmless and even eat rattlesnakes, but this is one of the instances when moving it is undoubtedly justified (unless a dead snake under the grill is a new trending hobby).

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


An employee at a storage facility went to throw the trash in the dumpster when she noticed this Western Diamondback Rattlesnake coiled in the shade. Glendale, Arizona.


A Western Diamondback Rattlesnake had been using this rock pile for at least a week, according to the homeowner, before she decided it was probably time to have it moved elsewhere. When Marissa examined the situation, she found a second rattlesnake also using it. This kind of erosion control is extremely attractive to snakes of all kinds, especially when piled multiple layers deep.


Newly applied rattlesnake fencing at this property in Tucson. Around the entier perimeter, no openings large enough for even the smallest newborn rattlesnake are allowed, including the gates.


This Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was hiding out in a little cave under a pool water feature. It took some work, but Marissa was able to get it out of there and to a better, more natural cave. This is a very common thing to happen in Scottsdale.


Lantana may be the most common landscaping feature in Arizona. It’s also incredibly useful to a variety of animals, including snakes. The tendency for this plant to be over-watered and leave a deep layer of decomposed leaf litter make it a favorite place to hide away. Here’s a Sonoran Gophersnake that was initially seen by the front door of a home, but went to hide in a lantana by the time Marissa arrived.


The “better mouse trap”.
This Sonoran Gophersnake was discovered by a pest control operator, having gotten itself trapped in a box intended for rodents. The injuries were, thankfully, superficial and it was released immediately.

A little Western Diamondback Rattlesnake taking it easy behind some bushes near a north Phoenix front door. This area is useful to rattlesnakes, providing shade and a source of moisture as we enter our brutally hot summer.

An old gate gets some new tricks: materials added to prevent entry by rattlesnakes from the tiniest newborn to the oldest and largest adults.

Licensed, bonded and insured (AZROC #321123) and guaranteed by two warranties.


A homeowner noticed something funny about the space between the door and walkway. She called us out, and Marissa was able to extract and relocate a small kingsnake.


A shady spot at a horse property made a temporary hiding spot after an encounter with a baby horse. Thankfully, everyone is ok, and the snake was relocated safely elsewhere.


A homeowner found a Western Diamondback Rattlesnake stuck in a glue trap in the garage. When Marissa got there to rescue it, she also found a Desert Spiny Lizard. Thankfully, both were rescued.


The landscapers saw these two big gophersnakes under a tree. The area is entirely urbanized with no nearby native habitat, but a golf course provides a good life for these snakes. Gophersnakes are one of a handful of species which have thrived in entirely developed parts of the city.

This Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was found enjoying a nice day on a Cave Creek patio. It was relocated to a better location.

Some Western Diamondback Rattlesnake variety from recent relocation calls. This species is, by far, the most common snake we are called to relocate.

A recently completed rattlesnake fence installation in Tucson. Each property has its own challenges, and others are more by the book. In each instance, the standards necessary to prevent a rattlesnake from climbing or squeezing in are the same, and we find a way.

This Sonoran Sidewinder was found in a developed part of Peoria, the entirety of its native habitat newly converted to homes. How it survived in this area for so long is a surprise. These snakes are highly specialized and do not do well in new situations. The relocation needed to be further away than we’d prefer, but these quickly expanding areas of the valley give no options.

From Marissa: “A week prior, the homeowner was in her garden, and she said she nearly touched this rattlesnake. They thought it had left but discovered it coiled by the AC unit. This snake was a good mile from some desert. It had to cross a lot of homes and a busy road to get to this home. There was only one tiny area at the gate where it could get out, so I think it was trapped more in the backyard. Scottsdale.”

While relocating the Western Diamondback Rattlesnake (in the bucket), Nik found another rattlesnake out in ambush on the way. He also found this cool little snake that we rarely see.

Nathan and Michael did an amazing job on this new installation near Tucson. The amount of work that goes into properly installing rattlesnake fencing around a property like this is crazy. Soft soil and chain link fence are prone to rodent digging and erosion, so every bit of steel installed needs to be not only trenched in deep, but done so in a way we’ve figured out that stops rodents from even trying to get in.

From CJ: “Little Western Diamondback Rattlesnake from a repeat customer’s home. This was the customer’s 2nd snake in about a week, and they reported finding it in the same spot as the first- in a corner of the patio under a drainage pipe on the north side of the home. By the time I got there it had moved across the turf and found refuge under a play slide. Relocated to an old pack rat midden underneath an ironwood tree in nearby habitat. Scottsdale.”

This Southwestern Speckled Rattlesnake was relocated from a home in Paradise Valley. There are a number of drainages in the area where the rattlesnakes have had their rattles removed. While it can’t be said for sure, I suspect human involvement.

A Western Diamondback Rattlesnake removal in Tucson gathered a small crowd before Nik got there to assist. The snake had sustained a tail injury from rocks thrown by an onlooker. Fortunately, the wound was superficial and the snake was released quickly after capture.

A courtyard gate modified to keep rattlesnakes out. Brent used low profile and color matched materials to make sure the entryway looks just as good as before, but with some new tricks.

A homeowner who’d just moved to Arizona called to have a kingsnake relocate. As Nik was explaining the harmless and beneficial nature of the snake, he spotted a second kingsnake from the corner of his eye. Both were carefully located to a location within their estimated home range, suitable for the season and conditions.

A Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was seen sitting in the cool grass in full sun, then made a slow crawl to the shade. That’s where it was when Dave arrived to relocated it to a better aestivation location.

Patios shaded by an overhang, especially north-facing, are common locations to find rattlesnakes during the summer. These situations emulate the natural shallow caves in drainages and deep canyons they use for the aestivation period each summer. Dave relocated this one from a home near Tucson recently, taking the snake to a deep packrat nest: another common microhabitat for this heat-avoidance activity.

The view from a backyard that won’t have any rattlesnake visitors. When even a short distance away, the materials used become almost invisible.

30 YEARS at this home, and this homeowner had neither seen a rattlesnake or heard of one in the neighborhood. With no natural desert within 5 miles, this snake is one of a likely small population that exists largely undetected within the large, heavily landscaped properties. This is similar to other situations we have found where Western Diamondback Rattlesnakes can survive in secretive groups within entirely developed areas.

A pair of large California Kingsnakes that Jeff recently relocated from a Gilbert property. While the smaller female was being watched by the homeowner, the larger male crawled right past his feet to sit with join her. Both were released together to carefully selected, seasonally appropriate microhabitat within their estimated homerange.

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

A beautiful young Mojave Rattlesnake from an expanding neighborhood in south Tucson. This little one sat like this while the homeowner watched until Nik arrived to move it elsewhere.

A big upgrade for this backyard: no rattlesnakes! Alongside passive methods like habitat reduction and landscaping changes, properly installed Rattlesnake Fencing is part of a safe and sustainable coexistence alongside native wildlife.

A rodent trap and the yet-to-be-improved-upon original.

Nik resolved this situation in a backyard in Tucson recently.

As they usually do, a Western Diamondback Rattlesnake took cover in a patio fridge/grill structure. These stand-alone units often provide easy cover for all kinds of animals, which includes rattlesnakes.

A beautiful cornsnake was spotted cruising around a Gilbert backyard. This is an escaped or released pet, and not what Marissa expected when heading out to capture an orange snake. It was taken to a local reptile shop which specializes in these kinds of pets so that it could be placed in a new home.

Materials added to this view fence, along with work on the gates, drains, and other entrances, will make this backyard less rattlesnake-friendly this year.

A small Western Diamondback Rattlesnake takes advantage of some shade before the area resembles the surface of the sun a few hours later. Summer is challenging for animals, and it’s no wonder they take advantage of generously supplied cover and water through unsealed backyards.

The family dogs discovered this Western Diamondback Rattlesnake taking advantage of a shaded patio. The homeowner was alarmed by the commotion, and thankfully, she got everyone inside before anyone was hurt. The snake was relocated to a safer situation for all involved.

Recent Western Diamondback Rattlesnake captures showing off some of the variability of pattern and color. Even within a small location, these snakes can be surprisingly diverse in appearance. All were relocated to carefully selected microhabitats based on the season and conditions.

Point of view from a backyard that rattlesnakes are unable to enter. The steel mesh installed by our Tucson team is nearly invisible unless you’re looking for it specifically. There’s a lot that goes into it, and we’re lucky to have the most experienced crew in the game working on it. This one was completed recently.

A Southwestern Speckled Rattlesnake tucked into some pool equipment. This aestivation behavior places rattlesnakes in carefully selected locations where they can stay alive in brutal summer conditions. Pool pump areas, like this one, are one of our most common capture locations during the hotter months.

A previous customer texted Marissa photo of this California Kingsnake that had become stuck in a wall. It had a large meal in its belly, and was wedged in and unable to free itself. Thankfully, Marissa was able to carefully wiggle it out and release it without even losing its lunch.

A beautiful Sonoran Gophersnake on the back patio of a Laveen property. The homeowner was surprised by her visitor when she was watering some plants. It was captured safely and relocated to another spot within its estimated home range.

This big Sonoran Gophersnake was called in as a rattlesnake after it rattled its tail at the dogs. These snakes can make loud sounds to try and scare away predators, which is easily confused as a rattlesnake’s rattle.

Newly installed rattlesnake fencing will keep this backyard stress free this summer 🙂 In addition to keeping rattlesnakes out, this property will also see fewer rodents, toads, tarantulas, and all kinds of other things that many people tend to prefer stay outside.

A homeowner in Scottsdale was moving rocks for a new pipe and found a visitor. A young Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was hiding out in the cool hideaway. Marissa was called out to relocate it to suitable habitat.

Snake Removals and Snake Fencing Project Updates

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.

Snake Removal

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.

Phoenix Snake Removal Activity Updates

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

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.

Arizona Snake Removals for October 2023

This Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was spotted late at night in a Cave Creek backyard. By the time we got there, it had moved around the front for curbside pickup.
This little Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was cruising around a backyard in Ahwatukee a few weeks ago, possibly unable to have found a suitable winter den. Marissa helped it get to the perfect place (not in the yard!)
This Sonoran Gophersnake was hanging out at an apartment complex in the bushes. It was super yellow compared to the typical brownish individuals we find in the area! Relocated nearby to help it avoid possibly dangerous (for the snake) encounters with humans.
Even Marissa missed this one, walking past it a few times before spotting the snake on a recent property inspection in Casa Grande. Captured and relocated safely.
Halloween decorations, even little ones, can make a corner of a doorway even more appealing to a snake looking to hide on its way to its winter den.
Derek caught this Western Diamondback Rattlesnake in a courtyard near Tucson. It was well hidden in the plant, but a little water from a nearby garden hose convinced it to come out. Relocated safely to a suitable situation within its estimated homerange.

Rattlesnake Removals for November 2023

Things slow down considerably in November, as expected. By now, rattlesnakes are more or less in the places they intend to spend the winter. There are of course, still sightings, but the nature of these is quite different. If a rattlesnake is seen at a home this time of year, it has likely been there for awhile already, and would stay until March or so. This can also make relocation more difficult, as we must search carefully for a suitable replacement den, which requires a high level of knowledge of the animal’s natural history. This is one more reason why rattlesnake relocation is best left to professionals.

Here are just a handful of our November relocations:

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.
This Western Diamondback Rattlesnake thought this trench was a nice little humid spot for a nap, but the homeowners disagreed. It was relocated safely and responsibly.
A home in a large desert tract had a visitor, seen over the past few days. After it appeared again by the front door, the homeowner called it in for relocation. It has been denning in the area, likely in an opening in the faux rock facade of the home. It’s a common misconception this time of year that rattlesnakes are searching for warm places – they are at the right places, which isn’t necessarily warm. In the low desert, moisture retention is a major factor in den site selection, and they often choose areas that are stable over one that is warmer. This is one of many factors that come into play when selecting a release site.

Arizona Snake Removal Updates for September

24/7 Snake Removal & Rattlesnake Prevention:

More snake removals from our snake removal service areas in Phoenix and Tucson.

Phoenix-metro: 480-237-9975

Tucson-metro: 520-308-6211

A Western Diamondback Rattlesnake denning in an outdoor storage closet, on a shelf about 3′ off the ground. The homeowner thankfully spotted it before reaching for something next to it. It was relocated to carefully-selected replacement hibernacula within its estimated homerange.
A call came into Amy with our Prescott hotline to report a rattlesnake, which they identified correctly as a Blacktailed Rattlesnake. This species often climbs trees and bushes – maybe this wicker chair seemed like a place it might get a bird 🙂
Amy relocated the snake safely to a situation perfect for this species at the time of capture.
A Western Diamondback Rattlesnake found a nice spot near an in-ground fountain on a property tucked against the Deems Hills preserve. In addition to the fountain, there was supplemental water and feeders for birds – rattlesnakes will continue to visit and take advantage of the free lunch. Nick was sent out to capture the snake and provide an assessment, and the snake was carefully relocated to a suitable situation.
This little baby rattlesnake found its way into an office building on a rainy night in September. It’s generalist camouflage worked surprisingly well against the floor pattern, but not quite good enough for the security guard not to notice. Back to the desert little guy.
This was a fun one. A bucket of 6 Western Diamondback Rattlesnakes all found at one property under some dense bushes. This was found on a property inspection in advance of a football-related party … which is good because this bush was right next to the cornhole boards. All snakes relocated safely, and homeowners know more about what to do with those bushes.
Wow! Look at this pretty, faded Sonoran Gophersnake found in a woodpile in Mesa. It was released safely, and the homeowner learned a bit more about the woodpile placement. More about why we sometimes relocate harmless snakes: https://rattlesnakesolutions.com/snakeblog/rattlesnake-solutions/why-relocate-harmless-snakes/
A Western Diamondback Rattlesnake in a place we often find them – the place in the yard that is often least-visited by the homeowner. When rodents help create some additional hiding places under the pool equipment, rattlesnakes have everything they need to hang out for the winter.
Sonoran Gophersnake
A Sonoran Gophersnake found in Phoenix that was released under large boulders with nearby rodent activity. It was found in a backyard with a very similar situation, and can continue doing its thing with a slight change in scenery.
Speckled Rattlesnake found just ouside a service panel to a patio fountain. The inside of the structure had signs of rodent activity, which when combined with shade and moisture, provided the perfect spot for this rattlesnake. It was released to carefully-selected microhabitat within its usual homerange.
Speckled Rattlesnake
A big Western Diamondback Rattlesnake taking advantage of a shaded corner on a hot day. The homeowner said they had already walked past it before noticing on the way back in. This is a great example of how a rattlesnake’s true primary defense works – stay hidden, let predators leave, and avoid confrontation.

Snake Removals in Arizona – September 2023

Here are just some of our snake removal calls we handled in September. It was a pretty typical month, busy with baby rattlesnakes and all of the others working to get some last meals before the fall set in.

A friendly little Sonoran Gophersnake found in a crack in a tree. The homeowners had thought it was a rattlesnake initially, and were relieved when Nick told them it was a harmless species.
This was a fun one. A bucket of 6 Western Diamondback Rattlesnakes all found at one property under some dense bushes. This was found on a property inspection in advance of a football-related party … which is good because this bush was right next to the cornhole boards. All snakes relocated safely, and homeowners know more about what to do with those bushes.
This little baby rattlesnake found its way into an office building on a rainy night in September. It's generalist camouflage worked surprisingly well against the floor pattern, but not quite good enough for the security guard not to notice. Back to the desert little guy.
Wow! Look at this pretty, faded Sonoran Gophersnake found in a woodpile in Mesa. It was released safely, and the homeowner learned a bit more about the woodpile placement.
A tiny rattlesnake found outside a home in the Tucson area. These little guys, when this happened back in September, were all over the place. This one was relocated safely to a better situation.
This little Mojave Rattlesnake from a north Phoenix apartment complex made it three buildings in from the desert before being spotted. The rest of the complex was searched (this can take awhile) but that day, this is the only one visible