Snakes in the City: A Baltimorean's Guide to Slithery Neighbors
Baltimore, a city known for its charm, crab cakes, and a certain gritty appeal, also boasts an unexpected variety of scaly residents. That's right, we're talking snakes! Before you start panicking and booking a one-way ticket to Alaska, let's dive into the world of Baltimore's snake population.
What Kind Of Snakes Are In Baltimore |
Not All Snakes Are Created Equal
Let's get one thing straight: most snakes in Baltimore are harmless. In fact, they're actually beneficial to the ecosystem, helping to control rodent populations. However, there are a couple of venomous snakes you should be aware of.
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- The Good Guys: These are the workhorses of the snake world. Garter snakes, rat snakes, and corn snakes are common in Baltimore and are completely harmless to humans. They're more afraid of you than you are of them, trust us.
- The Bad Guys: Now, we're not trying to scare you, but it’s important to know about the venomous snakes in the area. The copperhead and timber rattlesnake are the only two venomous snakes in Maryland, and they can be found in Baltimore. These guys are best left alone.
Where to Find Them (and Where Not To)
Snakes love to hang out in places where they can find food and shelter. This means you're likely to see them in wooded areas, fields, and near water sources. But don't worry, they're not plotting to invade your backyard barbecue.
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- Common Hangouts: Parks, nature preserves, and even your own garden can be home to snakes. They're particularly fond of hiding under rocks, logs, and leaf piles.
- Snake-Free Zones: While it's unlikely, you could encounter a snake indoors. They typically avoid human dwellings, but accidents happen. If you do find one inside, don't panic. Just give us a call (or a professional snake removal service) and we'll handle it.
Snake Safety Tips
So, you've spotted a snake. Now what? First, don't freak out. Secondly, give the snake some space. Most snakes will slither away if they feel threatened. Here are a few other tips:
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- Keep Your Distance: This should be obvious, but it's worth mentioning.
- Identify the Snake: If you can safely identify the snake, it can help you determine if it's venomous.
- Leave it Alone: This is probably the best advice. Let the snake do its thing and you do yours.
How to... Snake-Related FAQs
- How to identify a venomous snake: Look for triangular-shaped heads, vertical pupils, and thick bodies. But remember, not all venomous snakes have these characteristics.
- How to avoid snake bites: Wear protective footwear when hiking or gardening, and be aware of your surroundings.
- How to remove a snake from your home: Don't try to handle it yourself! Call a professional snake removal service.
- How to coexist with snakes: Appreciate their role in the ecosystem and keep a safe distance.
- How to prevent snakes from coming into your yard: Keep your yard clean and free of debris, and seal up any potential entry points.
Remember, snakes are an important part of our ecosystem. By understanding them and respecting their space, we can coexist peacefully. So, the next time you see a snake, don't panic. Just take a deep breath, admire nature's slithery creation, and let it be.
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Disclaimer: This post is intended for entertainment purposes only. Always consult with a wildlife expert for specific advice.