Summer Snake Activity: Why You’re Seeing More Reptiles Right Now

It’s July in coastal South Carolina, and that means steamy temps, regular rainstorms and yes, a spike in snake sightings. If you’re wondering why you’re seeing more slithering visitors around your home or yard, it all comes down to classic summer snake activity. Snakes love this warm, wet weather, and they’re more active than ever during the peak of summer.

Summer Snake Activity and Your Backyard

Snakes are cold-blooded reptiles, so they thrive when the weather’s warm. In July, they’re extra mobile, especially after rain. Moist conditions draw out frogs, lizards and rodents, which are all favorite meals for local snakes. So while you’re just enjoying your backyard, snakes are busy hunting and following the buffet trail right to your property.

Add in the fact that snakes are also looking for cooler, shady spots to escape the midday heat, and it’s no surprise they wind up hiding under decks, in thick landscaping or near water features and patios. If your yard has both food and shelter, snakes see it as a pretty inviting place to hang out.

How to Snake-Proof Your Property

You don’t need to tear up your yard, but a few smart changes can help keep snakes at bay. Start by trimming overgrown grass and bushes and clearing out woodpiles, stacked bricks or anything that provides cozy hiding spots. Fix any small gaps in your foundation, garage or shed. And since water attracts both prey and predators, keep an eye on standing puddles, overfilled birdbaths or anything else that stays damp long after it rains.

Most importantly, don’t go poking around snake-prone spots if you see something suspicious. A garden hose might not always be a garden hose. If you’re unsure, leave it to the pros.

The Snake Chaser Knows What to Do

At The Snake Chaser, we specialize in safe, humane snake removal and relocation. We know which snakes are common in coastal areas and where they like to hide when the summer heat sets in. If you’ve seen one slithering across the yard or curled up in a quiet corner, don’t wait until there’s a bigger problem. Call us instead.

Stay Ahead of Summer Snake Activity

July’s warm, wet weather makes it prime time for snakes to explore. But that doesn’t mean you need to share your outdoor space with them. The Snake Chaser is ready to help you stay safe and reclaim your yard from unexpected guests. Let us handle the wildlife so you can focus on enjoying your summer.

FAQs

1. Why are there more snakes around my house in the summer?

Snakes are cold-blooded, which means they rely on the outside temperature to regulate their body heat. Summer provides the perfect warmth for them to move around, hunt and stay active. In places like coastal South Carolina, frequent rain also brings out frogs, insects and small rodents, which snakes love to eat. Your home and yard become more attractive if you have shaded areas, water sources or thick landscaping where they can hide and cool off during the hottest parts of the day.

2. Are snakes more dangerous in the summer?

Snakes aren’t more aggressive in summer, but they are more active, which increases your chances of running into one. They’re out looking for food, mates and shelter. Most snakes just want to be left alone and will avoid people if given the chance. However, when surprised or cornered, some can defend themselves with a bite. That’s why it’s important to watch where you step and never try to handle a snake on your own. If you spot one, it’s safest to call a professional wildlife removal service.

3. What time of day are snakes most active during the summer?

In the heat of summer, snakes are most active in the early morning and late evening when temperatures are cooler. During midday, they’ll often hide in shaded or damp places to avoid overheating. If you’re gardening, hiking or walking around your property during these hours, be cautious around rock piles, wood stacks, tall grass and garden beds where snakes might be resting or hunting. Keeping your yard tidy and being aware of your surroundings goes a long way in avoiding unwanted encounters.