Top 5 Property Damages from Nuisance Wildlife
November 9, 2025
Most people think snake season ends when summer does. That idea is a misconception. Warm fall days and cool nights actually drive snakes toward homes, sheds and crawl spaces as they search for warmth and food. The Snake Chaser team sees an increase in calls every fall because snakes are not gone; they have just changed their habits. If you live along the Grand Strand, now is the time to stay alert and take a few simple steps to keep them outside where they belong.
Why Fall Triggers More Snake Sightings
Fall in Myrtle Beach brings new hiding spots, food sources and accidental invitations for snakes. Here’s what drives them closer to your home.
- Leaf piles and yard debris create perfect cover for snakes hunting small prey. Rake regularly and bag debris quickly to remove hiding spots.
- Halloween and fall decorations like hay bales and porch pumpkins attract rodents, which in turn attract snakes. Keep décor clean, dry and away from doors.
- Opening sheds and attics for holiday decorations often stirs up wildlife that has been nesting undisturbed for weeks. Always shine a flashlight and check corners before stepping inside.
- Construction or yard cleanups can also displace snakes from their normal habitats, pushing them toward residential areas where they look for shelter and warmth.
Snakes You’ll See Most in the Fall
Along the Grand Strand, the most active fall snakes include black racers, corn snakes, rat snakes, copperheads and cottonmouths. Nonvenomous species such as black racers and rat snakes are common around yards, while venomous snakes like copperheads and cottonmouths prefer wooded or wet areas. Copperheads are especially active during sunny fall afternoons.
If you spot a snake, never try to identify it up close. Venomous and nonvenomous species often look similar, especially when young. The best rule is simple: do not play hero. Step back, stay calm, and call a professional like The Snake Chaser to handle it safely.
Fall Scenarios You’ll Want to Avoid
You rake the leaves and uncover a coiled copperhead. You lift a pumpkin that has been sitting on your porch for weeks, and a small snake darts out from underneath. You open the shed for your Christmas lights and find a surprise guest curled in a corner. These situations happen every fall around Myrtle Beach, and while they can give you a good scare, they are completely preventable with the right steps.
Fall Snake-Proofing Checklist
- Seal small gaps around doors, vents and crawl spaces.
- Keep the yard clear of woodpiles, leaves and clutter.
- Store firewood at least 20 feet from your home and off the ground.
- Control rodents since mice and rats are a major food source for snakes.
- Use outdoor lighting to discourage snakes from hiding near walkways or patios.
What to Do if You See a Snake
If you see a snake near your home, do not panic. Keep your distance and watch where it goes. Do not try to move or kill it since that is when bites happen most often. Take a photo from a safe distance if possible and call The Snake Chaser. We can identify the species and remove it quickly and safely.
The Calm Way to Handle Snake Season
Even though temperatures are dropping, snake season is not over yet. The property damages and panic that follow a surprise encounter are not worth the risk. The Snake Chaser keeps Myrtle Beach families safe by removing snakes humanely and sealing up the spaces they use to sneak inside. With help from a local pro, you can enjoy crisp fall evenings on the porch instead of worrying about what is under the steps.
FAQs
1. Are snakes still active in the fall in South Carolina?
Yes, snakes are still active in the fall, especially in coastal areas like Myrtle Beach. Warm, sunny afternoons give them energy to hunt, while cool nights push them toward warm places such as crawl spaces, sheds and garages. Many people think snakes disappear after summer, but they remain active until consistent cold weather sets in.
2. What kinds of snakes are common in Myrtle Beach during the fall?
The most common snakes seen in the fall are black racers, rat snakes, corn snakes, copperheads, and cottonmouths. Black racers and rat snakes are harmless and help control rodent populations. Copperheads and cottonmouths are venomous, so homeowners should never try to approach or identify them up close. The safest option is to call The Snake Chaser for quick and professional removal.
3. How can I keep snakes out of my yard and home?
Keep your yard free of leaf piles, clutter and debris where snakes hide. Store firewood away from your house and off the ground. Seal cracks or gaps around doors, vents and foundations, and keep outdoor areas well lit. Reducing rodents also helps since snakes often follow food sources. If you do see a snake, contact The Snake Chaser to remove it safely and inspect your property for entry points.
