There are several different varieties of venomous snakes in the United States such as the copperhead and the rattlesnakeSome snakes live in or near water and others live on landThey are all carnivores that stalk and kill their preyUnless you're absolutely sure that the species you're dealing with isn't venomous, it's a good idea to just avoid themEven a venomous baby snake can inflict a painful and dangerous bite.

So how do you get rid of snakes that have taken up residence on your property?

The simple answer is that you or someone properly equipped and trained is going to have to catch them and take them awayThere are all kinds of different ideas on how to discourage them or drive them away, but the evidence shows most of these to be worthlessCommercial snake repellents do not workSome people have suggested predator urine from an animal like a coyote or a foxUltrasonic sound emittersMothballs in your yardAmmonia soaked ragsThe list goes on and on, but none of these have been proven successful in driving away snakes - but if you feel you've discovered a miracle deterrent that doesn't involve a mongoose, please share it with the rest of our readers using the form at the bottom of this page.

Again, the only way to get rid of snakes is to catch them and physically remove them from your property and the only way to keep them away is to eliminate a snake-friendly environment.