A baby Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was spotted cruising around on the patio of a Carefree home back in September. In the late summer, these little babies are wandering everywhere, seemingly at random, trying to figure out how to be a snake. This one got a second chance at life when it was safely moved away from the shoes and back to the desert.
A common erosion control solution that you’ll see at about any new development in central Arizona … or as we like to call it: “artificial rattlesnake mega-den.” If a home has one of these nearby; we likely know one another đ
Right now, snakes are moving back towards dens, and homes near these structures are much more likely to have an encounter than those that aren’t.
Sometimes it can be challenging for nearby homeowners who can do everything right, but still have a high number of rattlesnake visits. On property inspections, looking at the surrounding area is often a part of the big picture.
For more information on our Property Inspection service: https://rattlesnakesolutions.com/keep-snakes-away/rattlesnake-prevention.php
A Southwestern Speckled Rattlesnake hanging out in a jumble of hose. If it were an orange hose instead of green, this may have been a very different situation! The snake was captured and relocated to very specific conditions.
A few recent rattlesnakes from around the Phoenix metro area. Can you name the three species shown here?
24/7 Snake Removal & Prevention:
Phoenix-metro: 480-237-9975
Tucson-metro: 520-308-6211
As the monsoon season progresses, our team gets busier than ever. The baby rattlesnakes start being born with the incoming humidity, and snakes of all age classes and species are on the move. This begins the most critical period in their livesâââthe late-season push to eat as much as possible and make the best of the last hot part of the year. If the babies donât succeed in hunting now, they may not survive the winter.
For our snake prevention team, this also means that our standards are put to the test. Tiny baby rattlesnakes are on the move, and any gaps in a backyard are an entryway. With no room for error, our team must be on point at all times. Thankfully, the training and attention to detail get the job done.
Here are stories and photographs from our monsoon snake removal and prevention projects. This is just a small portion, but enough to get the picture.
A late night call to Ahwatukee to capture a little Western Diamondback Rattlesnake in the backyard. As Bryce walked the snake out to its release location, he spotted three others hanging out in the branches trying to stay cool. This is a great indication that the release spot is ideal habitat.
This pair of Desert Spiny Lizards lives at Dave’s place in Marana, where they wait for him like this to get some mealworms đ These are common lizards to see at homes in Arizona, where they make good use of the stucco and block walls.
This is a common situation in Arizona. AC units offer shade and an often undisturbed space to hide out. This Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was hiding out in a Vail backyard. Dave relocated the snake to a carefully selected situation.
This little Mojave Rattlesnake was hiding out in some unused pots on the back patio of a Marana home. Any cover will work, especially on covered patios and entryways. The snake was relocated to suitable habitat for the species with consideration for the conditions.
We worked with the homeowners association of this property to modify our rattlesnake fencing to match the community’s aesthetics, without sacrificing any of the functional elements that are critical to its function. We’re thankful for communities that understand and respect homeowners need to maintain a safe environment. Brent and Elias did great on this one!
Two different Western Diamondback Rattlesnakes found in exactly the same spot two weeks apart. It’s safe to say that in situations like this, the actual issue is something in the immediate area that rattlesnakes are finding useful. Both of these were relocated safely to elsewhere in their home range.
A Western Diamondback Rattlesnake taking cover under a patio overhang.
Western Diamondback Rattlesnake hanging out on a Tucson back patio.
In the flat grasslands around Prescott Valley, the Mojave Rattlesnake is the most common visitor to homes. This one was using the shade of a building in the area when spotted by the property owner. Dane went out to help it along to a better area.
A Western Diamondback Rattlesnake found deep in a warehouse in the east valley. It was apparently wanting to help with some cleaning up, but the property manager thought that was best left to the employees. CJ found it a much better spot under a big velvet mesquite tree near a wash.
Rattlesnake Fencing requires very specific measurements and features in order to work. Based on much testing and study of the behavior of all rattlesnake species in the state, it’s something best left to specialists.
The owners of a horse ranch in Scottsdale watched this curious Western Diamondback Rattlesnake crawl through a broken window and into a vacant barn used for storage. It had likely been staying here for quite awhile. Bryce was called out to move it to elsewhere within its estimated home range.
A familiar situation: a Western Diamondback Rattlesnake taking advantage of the pool equipment â this time to prepare to give birth to babies. These areas of properties tend to be tucked away and can provide access to rodents and a lot of shaded areas, and are one of the most common locations where we find rattlesnakes. Bryce was very gentle with this one to make sure its babies were not damaged, and found a great replacement rookery.
Bryce found FOUR gravid (pregnant) Western Diamondback Rattlesnakes at one home in Fountain Hills. They were using different areas of the property to thermoregulate as they prepared to give birth any day at that point. He found a perfect aestivation cave within their estimated home range where they’d be safe and could have their babies without danger.
The first baby snake of the year for Bryce, back on the last day of July. It’s a hatchling Coachwhip, which will likely grow to be big, fast, and bright pink! He moved it to a great spot to start out its life, away from the backyard where it was captured.
This Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was very pregnant at the time of its capture in the north valley on the last day in July. Extreme care must be taken in finding the perfect location for snakes in this condition, as well as gentle handling, to make sure her and her babies are not damaged.
A back courtyard gate with some new functionality â keeping rattlesnakes out.
RJ searched the area during a break on a rattlesnake fence installation, and found the reason the homeowners were wise to be getting it done. This small Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was likely an occasional visitor to the backyard, but will have to get a drink in someone else’ pool from now on.
This Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was spotted under a wood patio extension in Anthem. James was called up to capture and relocate it to a better situation.
A little Western Diamondback Rattlesnake found on the patio of a home near the base of South Mountain in Phoenix. CJ carefully relocated it to a better situation.
This Sonoran Gophersnake was called in as a rattlesnake, and disappeared into lantana before Bryce arrived. He was able to find it, and the homeowners learned about these harmless snakes. Keeping a big snake in the yard is something to get used to for many people, so the snake was moved a short distance to carefully selected microhabitat within its home range.
This Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was just barely visible in a lanatana. The pattern of a rattlesnake can do a great job of breaking up its shape, making it very difficult to pick out of chaotic patterns, especially in dappled light. Bryce captured it and relocated it directly to carefully selected cover.
Another backyard that won’t be worrying about rattlesnakes next year. This one involved a lot of deep trenching, and more technique below the surface to prevent rodents from digging under it.
While Bryce was on route to a rattlesnake removal in Scottsdale, a bobcat showed up and killed a cottontail. It didn’t run off, instead watching the relocation from ~15 yards away. The Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was safely captured and relocated directly to cover within its estimated home range.
While searching a property for rattlesnakes, Marissa found this red-eared slider in an underground control space. These invasive turtles are common in city ponds and waterways.
Basements are rare in Arizona, but when there is one, these deep window wells often become traps for a variety of wildlife. This one caught three Sonoran Desert Toads, which were fortunately seen in time to be rescued and relocated to the proper area.
The standard “rattlesnake by the front door” situation that we run into daily in the Phoenix area. The covered entryways can provide cool cover that wildlife can find useful. This one was in north Phoenix, and relocated carefully to very specific surroundings.
That’s it for this one! More Arizona snake removal stories in the next post.
The monsoon continues, bringing peak activity for all native reptiles and amphibians of Arizona. Here are just a few of those from recent times.
Phoenix-metro: 480-237-9975
Tucson-metro: 520-308-6211
A landscaper spotted this large Sonoran Desert Toad, which led to a call to our hotline. Marissa moved it to a better spot. These toads are great for pest control! Eating everything that moves, including snakes, spiders, and even small rodents on occasion. However, for dog owners, this could be a very dangerous situation, so identifying resources that could bring these toads into a property can be important.
A homeowner had seen a few rattlesnakes in the backyard over several days time. They initially called the fire department, which tossed them over the back fence, and they came back immediately afterward. They then called us, and Marissa was able to find both snakes and identify the issue so that the homeowners could resolve the source of the problem.
A Western Diamondback Rattlesnake found on a Scottsdale patio in what could have been a bad situation if the homeowners weren’t paying attention. Fortunately, it all worked out and the snake was relocated safely to a better spot.
An ideal situation for a rattlesnake to take up residence in a backyard. This situation is right next to a preserve, and a Western Diamondback Rattlesnake had been living there for quite some time. The snake was relocated, and homeowner aware of the situation.
A really clean-patterened Mojave Rattlesnake on a patio in Queen Creek. The homeowner had let the cat out and heard a rattle, prompting a quick call. The snake was safely relocated to carefully selected conditions.
A large Sonoran Gophersnake found in an assisted living facility. They were able to get it outside, where it was found in the backyard under a citrus tree.
Every property is different, some presenting unique challenges to adding suitable rattlesnake protection. Here’s a recent one completed against free-standing stakes. This pool will be an easier place to relax next year.
This Sonoran Gophersnake was found climbing up this rock and concrete chimney. This is a good example of climbable situations that can get a snake into a backyard, rather than the slug-crawl straight up the wall that people often expect.
A very common situation to find a rattlesnake in throughout Arizona. These shaded entryways that cover the front doors of many homes often emulate the situations that rattlesnakes look for in the wild to wait out hot days. This one was captured and relocated safely in north Phoenix.
This snake was hanging out under the condensation drip in the backyard. The homeowner wanted to kill it, but he was convinced by his daughter, thank goodness. After talking to him, it seemed like he had a better respect for snakes. He just had no idea they could be found where he lived because it is a very well-developed area.
From Marissa: “I remember catching a large king snake a few years ago in the same area. So, I went back and found that I caught the same king snake not far from where I caught it 3 years ago. I’m happy itâs still alive, and it’s amazing it can survive in such a developed area. This is the snake the first time I caught it.” – Gilbert, AZ
Some house painters spotted this speck under an overhang of the house. While they were watching it, a second rattlesnake was about twenty feet away but on the move, but kept going and left before Marissa arrived. This home is on a rocky hillside, where this species of snake is the most common rattlesnake. However, due to its extreme camouflage, most go undetected.
This Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was seen coming and going from this refrigerator space in a backyard grill island. The property doesn’t have rattlesnake fencing and borders the desert, so situations like this are common. Savannah went out and was able to safely move the fridge and get the snake to a better situation. The homeowner was also informed on what can be done to prevent future encounters.
Some bucket shots of recent captures of some of the most commonly encountered snake species in the Phoenix area. All of these were relocated safely to carefully selected conditions.
Rattlesnake fencing was just installed at this property. It can be seen from an angle … kinda. In fact, the most common criticism we get online is from people who can’t see the mesh between the larger bars đ Thanks for helping prove the point!
A snake removal call to Queen Creek ended up being three rattlesnakes! After the first one was found, Jeff inspected the garage and found two more hiding away.
Jeff went to a business in Queen Creek to get this one. You can see its tracks look different than many may expect: a series of diagonal lines rather than the typical serpentine track. The circle is where the snake eventually settled into a coil for the night.
James was called out to this sleeping Sonoran Gophersnake on a late night call to north Phoenix.
From CJ: “Fairly sizable Western Diamondback hanging out on a patio late at night. The area had plenty of habitat but nothing where it wouldnât likely run into another situation like this. So I took it to a preserve a little bit further than I would normally but found it a good desert ironwood with deep caves underneath the base where it can get a new start. Cave Creek. “
Dane picked up this Blacktailed Rattlesnake from a home at the border of Prescott and Prescott Valley. These snakes are often misidentified in the area as “Mojave Green” due to the color.
A barely-visible Western Diamondback Rattlesnake hiding out behind a planter in Scottsdale. Grant went out to relocate this snake to a carefully selected location.
Gophersnakes can get pretty big! Here’s Jeff holding up a shed skin he found at a home on a snake fence estimate â holding above his head and standing on the tail (he’s 5’11”). Shed skins stretch and aren’t an accurate representation of the true size of the snake, but it’s safe to say this is a very big animal.
This Western Diamondback Rattlesnake got through doors that were left ajar at a school and ended up trapped in the entryway. Fortunately it was spotted, and Bryce went out to help it get to a safer situation for all involved.
Bryce was called out to capture a Western Diamondback Rattlesnake behind a storage box at an Anthem home. When he was there, he also spotted a Sonoran Gophersnake with a stubby tail. Both of them were moved to a safer location.
Thatâs it for this one! We remain very busy through the fall into November, and this is just a fraction of what actually happens during our busiest season. For more information, visit https://rattlesnakesolutions.com or a more real-time view on our Facebook page: https://facebook.com/snakeremoval
Both the Sonoran Gophersnake and the person that came to take it off the patio were pretty exciting to this little guy.
A homeowner spotted a Sonoran Gophersnake while watering a palmtree over a wall. But, the drain the snake was hiding in was too small, and it eventually came out to be taken to a better situation by Marissa.
Thankfully, the sign is just a joke. This Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was found digesting a meal on a well-shaded back patio in north Phoenix.
Some Southwestern Speckled Rattlesnakes from recent relocations around the south end of Phoenix.
A Phoenix homeowner was out in the backyard with her dog when she noticed it messing with something. Thankfully, she got there fast enough to get the dog inside after seeing that it was a Southwestern Speckled Rattlesnake.
Security guards at a hotel in Phoenix saw this Speckled Rattlesnake crossing a roadway. By the time Bryce got there to capture it, it had coiled into this shaded space in adjacent rocks, where it would have likely spent much of the day. With the heat, careful consideration is necessary for relocations like this, and the snake was relocated to specific microhabitat where it can survive.
From Jeff: “Had a fun back and forth with this one. Went out to Florence to look for a Gophersnake that wasnât watched and disappeared by the time I arrived. I searched all over the place, including the next door neighborâs yard to no avail. I was confused because it was 108 outside and it could not have gotten far. As soon as I got home and started office work, I was called back because the snake was right back where it was originally. Turns out, the steel door frame was not capped at the bottom and it was hiding there. When I arrived it had almost given me the slip again in the door. With some gentle coaxing it eventually came out.”
From CJ: “Little Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was having a mouse meal in a horse stall when the customers found him. Customer said that theyâve had several rattlesnakes on the property throughout the years and someone in the household would always dispatch them with a shovel. The customer who called stated they always felt bad because they knew the snakes meant no harm so they decided to call RS this time. Was able to talk conservation for a bit before seeing this guy off to a good home underneath a big palo verde nearby. Cave Creek.”
Some of a newly rattlesnake-fenced property near Tucson. This one used black coated steel to blend into the existing aesthetic and become barely visible, if that. There’s a lot more to it than it seems, and when it’s all done this backyard is in a much safer situation than it was before.
This little Sonoran Gophersnake was found at a home on a rocky yillside in Williamson Valley. The hole was in a shaded are between the home and the AC unit. When it’s hot, places to stay cool are great resources for snakes and other wildlife. Dane moved this one to a better situation.
This little Sonoran Gophersnake was found at a home on a rocky yillside in Williamson Valley. The hole was in a shaded are between the home and the AC unit. When it’s hot, places to stay cool are great resources for snakes and other wildlife. Dane moved this one to a better situation.
This heavily gravid Western Diamondback Rattlesnake is about to pop any minute, as many are around the state. CJ found her in an area where another had been seen days before in north Phoenix, and relocated her carefully to a place where she can safely have her babies.
From Tim on our overnight hotline: “A girl near the pool at the resort in Phoenix said, “Dad, look at that big snake!” Needless to say, we came. We saw. We captured. We relocated. Who ya gonna call? “
This Tiger Rattlesnake was waiting out a heavy rain at an Oro Valley entryway. Nik helped find it a better spot to hang out.
A recent Rattlesnake Fence project completed near Tucson. It’s not as visible as many people (HOAs) often think it is, providing the most effective division between rattlesnakes and the patio possible without changing how things look.
It took two visits to a packed two-car garage and workshop to locate this Mojave Rattlesnake in the Prescott Valley area. Dane eventually found it behind a tablesaw, and relocated it to a carefully selected site.
Dave found this adult Western Diamondback Rattlesnake using a deck and cover with a water leak as a summer aestivation site. It was carefully captured and relocated to a suitable replacement. Working within this aspect of the animal’s natural history is essential to its survival.
There may be a day when we don’t get a rattlesnake out of a garage somewhere in the state, but today isn’t that day.
Standard garage Western Diamondback Rattlesnake relocated by Dave in Tuscon recently.
This small Western Diamondback Rattlesnake disappeared when the homeowner went to call our hotline, but Dave was able to find it behind some pots. With the temperature approaching 110ËF when he arrived, its hiding location was pretty predictable.
Sometimes we don’t even get to ring the doorbell before a rattlesnake ends up in the bucket. This Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was there to greet Dave as he arrived, making for a quick and easy relocation.
A homeowner in Queen Creek called in with a report of this California Kingsnake that had caught a Tiger Whiptail on their patio. Jeff went out to help the snake to a different spot, carefully handling it so that its prey stayed in place. When he got there, the lizard’s tail was still sticking out of its mouth like Sonoran spaghetti.
This little Gila Monster was stuck in a backyard in Tucson. Nik went out to help it back to suitable habitat before it could have a bad run in with the family dog. Gila Monsters require very specific habitat and require special care when being worked with.
This Mojave Rattlesnake wasn’t super excited about being captured, not understanding the common alternative. Nik relocated it to the correct habitat for the species.
A homeowner called in after her dog was bitten by a rattlesnakeâ˘. Marissa was called out a few days later to see if the snake was still in the area. When she got there, the situation was obvious: dense, thick landscaping. Common plants like lantana and natal plum create cool cover that rattlesnakes and other animals often find useful as long term homes. That was the case here â not only did she find one rattlesnake, but another one hanging out as well.
This is an excellent example of a common saying of ours “the snake is the symptom” â regardless of these two snakes being moved away, the real issue remains: supporting habitat. The homeowner was informed of the situation.
â˘Note: Unless the information is offered outside of educational support to the homeowner, we typically do not later inquire about bite situations unless information is requested. These can be sensitive situations, and sometimes our job is knowing when it’s appropriate to neither ask or report.
This Mojave Rattlesnake was found at a construction site. It had been run over by a vehicle, receiving injuries that may not be survivable.
Some photos from the post-installation quality inspection from a recent Rattlesnake Fencing installation from Brent and Bre! Looks great, when it looks like anything at all đ
More information on Rattlesnake Fencing: https://rattlesnakesolutions.com/keep-snakes-away/snake-fence.php?p=social
This pretty little Speckled Rattlesnake was hanging out on a cool patio on a very hot Arizona summer day. The home was up on a mountainside, where this species is common. It was tagged, then released to suitable cover for the species and time of year â if we see this snake again, it will not likely be at this same home.
The family dogs notified the homeowner to a snake in the yard. They thought it was a rattlesnake until Marissa was able to catch it, and show that it was just a Sonoran Gophersnake making a lot of noise. There was also a Sonoran Desert Toad by the door, so they got to be best friends for a short time during transport.
This Southwestern Speckled Rattlesnake was enjoying the cool, freshly watered grass at a home backing up to the preserve. But with people active in the area, relaxing time was over and the snake was moved to a carefully selected spot back in the desert.
Western Diamondback Rattlesnake taking the welcome mat literally in Peoria.
A newly developed neighborhood with desert all around meeting the existing residents. As the valley continues to develop westward, these situations will become increasingly common there. This one was relocated to some of the remaining natural habitat, and the new homeowners are keeping our number handy.
Marissa said “I was going to release a snake when I had to hop over this pancake posted up early morning.”
A standard gate with some barely-visible additions that will keep this pool area rattlesnake free from now on.
This Mojave Rattlesnake laid in this exact spot while Bryce made a long run to Mesa. It didn’t appear to be injured or anything and acted perfectly normal upon capture.
Nik was called to an overnight relocation at a home in the Catalina Foothills. Along with the Western Diamondback Rattlesnake, he found a kingsnake cruising the property. One got to stay, the other went with Nik. Any guesses which?
This sizeable Arizona Black Rattlesnake had been hanging out for a few days on a hillside home near Dewey before the homeowner decided it was time to move along. Dane helped find it the perfect location.
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 customerâs home. This was the customerâs 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 đ 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.
A quick and easy capture of a Western Diamondback Rattlesnake at a property in Rio Verde yesterday. The snake was having a nice time in some well-watered raised garden boxes, and got a free ride to a packrat nest just elsewhere. If you’ll notice, too, the snake is more curious than anything by the whole situation, not even bothering to uncoil from its resting position.
We’re often asked “why doesn’t it bite the tongs!” â because when the tool is used as it should be, with just enough force to control and lift the animal, avoiding injury or undue stress, it’s often not treated as a big deal. Compare this with photos you may have seen of the fire department or similar, where the snake is gripped tightly behind the head, and it’s in a thrashing panic.
A trailer in Ahwatukee made for an easy shaded spot for this Western Diamondback Rattlesnake. Justin moved it to a better area.
After cutting a Western Diamondback Rattlesnake out of some netting at a property near Tucson, Dave searched for others. He found a small Sonoran Gophersnake, barely visible here hiding beneath some dense vegetation. The homeowner opted to leave it there, which is the best outcome.
A small adult Western Diamondback Rattlesnake cruising through a backyard … which features a viewfence that is looking awfully devoid of certain rattlesnake prevention features *cough cough*
Dave relocated this one to a better situation. Marana, AZ.
The first Mojave Rattlesnake for CJ! He was called out to a home in north Phoenix and found this tiny rattlesnake hiding out in the bucket. Relocated to a deep hole under a creosote in a flat desert scrub.
This Western Diamondback Rattlesnake found its way into an open garage, and had tucked itself behind the fridge when Bryce got there to help it along. Relocated to carefully selected conditions.
Some bucket shots from recent captures.
A rattlesnake call turned into a Sonoran Gophersnake run to this home in Tucson. This harmless snake was moved a short distance and the homeowner learned all about it.
A homeowner called from Picture Rocks reporting a rattlesnake. When Nik arrived, he found a mating pair under the house, just like this. They were carefully captured in that tight space and relocated together to a packrat nest to hopefully resume making more little rattlesnakes.
A call came in for what the homeowner thought to be two rattlesnakes, but it ended up being this gophersnake doing weird gophersnake things.
A Western Diamondback Rattlesnakehiding out in front of a storage facility but moved to a nearby bush when Marissa was on the way. This is a new building surrounded entirely by desert, which will also become pavement in the near future.
A homeowner noticed she wasn’t alone when she went to water the tomatoes. The Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was tangled in netting, but fortunately seriously injured. Marissa was able to cut it out, then discovered a Sonoran Gophersnake watching the event from a nearby cactus.
New rattlesnake fencing installed at a dog park will make everyone breathe a little easier this summer.
A homeowner living alongside a desert preserve watched a pair of Western Diamondback Rattlesnakes make their way to this rock to mate. Marissa was called out and the snakes were moved to a better spot within the preserve to continue making more little rattlesnakes.
A Western Diamondback Rattlesnake made its way into this house through a door left open. It was discovered by the homeowners when it rattled at them in the livingroom. After it was captured, Marissa found another rattlesnake, stuck in a sticky trap in the garage. She was able to carefully rescue it, and both of the snakes were relocated to a better spot in the desert. Lessons learned all around about glue traps and leaving doors open in Arizona.
Dave found a small adult Western Diamondback Rattlesnake taking shelter beneath a large Buckhorn Cholla. I found it a nice well shaded pack rat nest near a wash in the surrounding desert.
The weekend after a rattlesnake in a yard prompted an estimate for rattlesnake fencing, Jill found this Sonoran Gophersnake while taking measurements. While Sonoran Gophersnakes are not targeted by rattlesnake fencing, it’s all a good indicator that this property is useful to snakes, and at least the buzzy ones will be prevented from visiting in the future.
This Western Diamondback Rattlesnake traveled from the house that called for service originally to the neighbors’ yard. Justin was thankfully able to find it after searching near the trash cans.
A homeowner was working on his Jeep when he noticed a visitor watching sharing the garage. A garage with an open door is just a shaded cave, and this snake thought it was a good spot to hide away for the day. Bryce went out and helped the snake find a better shady spot.
I think our sales team will kill me if I keep posting photos of recent rattlesnake fence projects with how in-demand the service is right now, but I can’t help it. This one out of Tucson is just perfect. That pool looks even better knowing the fence behind it will keep rattlesnakes out in the adjacent native habitat. Great work Nate and Michael.
From Bryce: “This goes on record as the chilliest coachwhip Iâve ever caught. Sat in one spot the whole forty minute drive I had over, and let me pick it up and release it with ease.”
This Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was found inside a building. A worker met with Dave the next day and the snake was nowhere to be found. He did, however, see a trench running from some equipment to the outside of the building, which he followed out and found the snake under cover there. The snake was safely captured and the workers could get back to it knowing the building was free of rattlesnakes đ
An unfortunate situation near Tucson. This Sonoran Gophersnake was spotted near a loading dock with injuries, likely from a car. Despite being injured, we have seen these snakes survive some crazy situations, and Dave decided that it may have a chance if released. He found it a good spot to hide away and, hopefully, recover.
Two rattlesnakes captured on the same street on consecutive days in Tucson. Both were likely using the same major microhabitat features in the adjacent desert area. Understanding this is key to proper relocation activities, and informing homeowners of what can be done to prevent future encounters.
Western Diamondback Rattlesnake spotted in a well-kept garden in Catalina Foothills. Homeowner had been regularly trimming their bushes, but it was the first time they had seen a rattlesnake.
An adult Gila Monster that was found in the bathroom of an east Tucson home. It likely wandered in through one of the doors of the house, which were left open for the heat. It was given some water and released just down the wash from the house into carefully selected microhabitat.
This Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was caught up in bird netting when it was found in a backyard. Bryce was able to very carefully get the snake out of it, and release the snake without major injury to a packrat nest within its estimated homerange.
Rattlesnake Fence must, beyond everything else, be functional. There is no next-best, no second place, or half measures â it’s a fully secured perimeter or it isn’t. This is why we are so strict with the situations and figures required to get the job done. There is much more going on than simply sticking metal to things đ Here’s one recently completed by our Tucson team.
Bryce was called to a Phoenix backyard to deal with a pair of rattlesnakes. When he arrived, one of the snakes had already disappeared, but he managed to capture the other one that was still in the yard. While searching the property, he came across a dead ground squirrel, which was placed in a bucket to dispose of in the field. However, when he opened the bucket to release the snake, he found it eating the ground squirrel, which turned out to be a nice treat for the snake before its relocation.
From Bryce: “This was absolutely crazyâŚ. A homeowner opened her garage for me to search in Scottsdale for a rattlesnake that couldnât have really gone anywhere, and I was starting to scratch my head as to where this snake couldâve gone, given the relative emptiness and lack of hiding spots in the area. As I was speaking with the homeowner near the entrance to the garage, this snake fell from the top of the raised garage door about 10 feet down and landed within 3 feet of all of us, scaring the living daylights out of everyone. Evidently, it had been crawling along the rim of the garage door and mustâve taken a joyride up to the ceiling when the homeowner had opened it for me!”
A Longnosed Snake was found under an outdoor grill shade during the hottest part of the day. These snakes are nocturnal much of the year, but in the spring most encounters are during the daylight hours. It was relocated to deep tunnels under a creosote.
A big Western Diamondback Rattlesnake found cruising around a Scottsdale neighborhood.
From our internal Slack channel from Jill:
“Long story alert!!
I cannot say this with 100% certainty, but I may have bucketed a snake Iâve been looking for for 8yrs. I was called out in early March of 2016 to try and find a rattlesnake from the middle of Mesa. Most habitat gone in the area, I thought the school administrator was freaking out over a gopher. She sent me a blurry photo and it WAS an atrox. An animal thatâd been seen by maintenance folk wintering there for 7 freaking years. I went back over and overâŚnever found him. Fast forward to today- Marissa is called out by the new school admin to try and locate a large male cruising past the front door. Heâd bolted in the commotion and she was unable to find him by the time she arrived. They requested a fencing estimate for the kids safety, so Brandon worked it so I could get out there today. I searched and searched during the estimateâŚno luck. Figured Iâd give it another go tonight once kids/staff had left and sun was going down. The little (big) punk was finallllllly found. Real talk, it was a huge bummer to evict this guy. Heâd managed to survive extreme habitat loss, insane traffic AND to coexist safely alongside tons of tiny humans for a very long time. His whole damn life. His/my choices came down to relocation or chance a meeting with the landscapers arriving tomorrow morning to collect the bounty. Decided it was time for him to go. Highest hopes that heâll thrive in his new digs and never be bothered with the ridiculousness of human behavior again. Heâs earned it. Solid team effort today between relocation and fencing! Big THANKS to @Marissa and @Brandon
!! Love love LOVE you both!! :)) “
A Western Diamondback Rattlesnake captured by Tim, his first relocation call for 2024. Many more to come đ
This Coachwhip had been seen the day before, and the homeowner decided to let it stay where it was after discussing their harmless nature with Dave. However, after it was seen 3 more times over the next 24 hours, she decided it needed a ride to another spot.
Despite being entirely black, the subspecies of this Coachwhip is called a “Red Racer”âdespite being neither red nor a racer. Meanwhile, other red snakes, like the Western Groundsnake, are often called red racers as well, becoming a colloquial bucket for any snake that might show a reddish hue. It tends to create confusion, which is why, for this animal, we typically just call it a Coachwhip.
A couple of Western Diamondback Rattlesnakes, photographed in the location they were found, at homes near Tucson in April. Both were safely relocated to carefully selected microhabitat that emulates the situation of capture.
A Kingsnake from the Tucson area, where their appearance can be variable. A discussion was had with the homeowner about keeping it around, especially since a rattlesnake was seen on the porch the previous fall, but she decided to have it moved.
More about why we sometimes relocate harmless snakes: https://rattlesnakesolutions.com/snakeblog/rattlesnake-solutions/why-relocate-harmless-snakes/
A recent Rattlesnake Fence installation at a home in Tucson. At a height no rattlesnake can climb over and no space small enough even a new born can fit through, this summer will be less stressful than the last year for the homeowners and their dogs.
More information on Rattlesnake Fencing:
A little Western Diamondback Rattlesnake using the shade alongside this house, using the hose for additional cover and maybe a little ambient moisture.Â
A Western Diamondback Rattlesnake that met the family dog the night before. It hid under patio furniture but disappeared by morning, when the homeowner called us. Dave went out and was able to find the snake hiding in a nearby lantana … as they often do. It was captured and relocated to carefully selected microhabitat.Â
Improperly applied snake fencing and the inevitable results.
Which feature immediately gives this snake fence away as an issue?
A Western Diamondback Rattlesnake found hiding out under some patio furniture. Captured and relocated by Dave to better conditions for all involved. Â
A Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was found outside a home, initially discovered in a playroom. It came through the house’s front door, which had been left open for a short time. The homeowners scared it outside, where Nik was able to find and capture it to be relocated elsewhere.Â
The modifications to this viewfence, made to keep rattlesnakes out of the yard, are just barely visible here. For the homeowner standing on the patio, it looks somewhere between invisible and a barely-seen gray haze. What they won’t see, however, are rattlesnakes in the backyard.
These two Western Diamondback Rattlesnakes were found under a board pile after one was spotted near the house. We were called out to capture the one, which ended up being two. Both were relocated safely elsewhere.Â
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 residentâs 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 wasnât 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 couldnât 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 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 vĂĄmanos 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.Â
From CJ: “Gophersnake friend crashing the customerâs 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.Â
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.
