I would definitely not label myself as a snake lover but I do recognize the difference between good and bad snakes. I think one of the most important things to remember as well is that there are responsible ways to handle each category, venomous and non-venomous.
I consider any venomous snake to be a bad snake. If it is venomous and on my property, it is dead. Bottom line. Risking my dogs and my own safety is not worth trying to catch and release a species that will kill me if I do not reach a hospital in time.
Just an FYI, there are several species of Diamonbacks that are constantly being relocated to protected habitats. After speaking with a few men who have participated in rattlesnake roundups, it seems that the hunters are very careful to identify the snakes in this species that are protected thus only catching the particular species that are over populating the area.
I have had experiences with Cottonmouths (Water Moccasins) and Copperheads that have been a little to close for comfort. Yes, they ended up dead. The problem is that these snakes will come back if they have found food, water and a suitable habitat. Breeding season for a Cottonmouth is a nightmare.
Sometimes your own yard can be a perfect habitat for a venomous snake. Whether you live in the country or the city YOU have to control the rodents, not the venomous snakes! I would rather have a mouse on the porch any day as opposed to a venomous snake. Venomous snakes are not good for rodent control because they are just too dangerous. King snakes would be. Anyway, this truly helps by cutting off the food supply. We can't do anything about ponds and lakes but we can keep grass short and open holes filled around such water sources. Tall grass is a prime place for snakes to hide and open holes near a water source is an idea place for them to nest. Gravel has been my choice to fill holes.
King snakes are our friends and an enemy to other snakes. I had a king snake on my property for about 5-6 years. He/She was almost 6 feet long and very shy. He lived near the pond (water and food source). They will eat other snakes, turtle eggs, frogs, lizards and rodents. They are also immune to venomous snake bites. Never kill a King and learn to know the difference.
I have a love of animals of all sorts. No, I don't love snakes but I sure appreciated seeing that King snake outside sunning every morning. I knew he was taking care of various problems. He was rounding up the turtle eggs and killing everything that a dangerous snake would want to eat..including the dangerous snakes.
A fast way to identify a venomous snake is usually by their triangular head and slitted eyes. A King snakes head would look more like your thumb. No triangular shape. Learn about the snakes in your area and memorize the difference.
