Rattlesnake season again

[LoboGunLeather]

One in the garage yesterday morning. One on the patio last week. One at the elderly lady's patio two doors down last week. Couple of the little beasts got away from me before I could pin them with a rake or smash them with a shovel.

Our home is on a cul-de-sac bordering thousands of acres of open prairie. Springtime brings out the snakes, especially the young newly-hatched about 15-20 inches, no rattles yet just a button on the end of the tail. So there is no "buzz" as a warning, but they will coil and strike faster than I can blink my eyes.

The coyotes are mildly annoying, filthy mangy critters. Foxes are fun to watch. Wild turkeys are interesting. The occasional roaming bear. Deer just about any time of the year. Owls, hawks, falcons. Bobcats prowling around at times.

The critters keep life interesting. Except for the rattlesnakes; I have no tolerance for them around the house.

 

[lihpster]

They serve their purpose. But just like hog farms and paper mills, you don't want them in your backyard.

 

[gjgalligan]

I have no tolerance for them around the house.

Just remember that the snakes were there long before your house was built!

 

[LoboGunLeather]

Just remember that the snakes were there long before your house was built!

True enough. I've lived in rattlesnake country most of my life. I do not encroach or inflict myself on snakes. I want them to do their thing and live their lives without conflict from me.

When I step outside on the patio in my house slippers, or my wife steps into the garage to get into her car, and we find uninvited guests the time has come to cease peaceful cohabitation protocols.

One old friend was bitten on his foot while picking up the morning newspaper. A month in the hospital, then 6 months laid up at home, several surgeries to remove necrotic tissue, about half of his foot gone, lucky to remain capable of getting around using two walking canes 10 years later.

Another family friend watched his 8-year old daughter die from a rattlesnake bite in their back yard.

I know how to be careful when I go into snake territory. Snakes need to be careful when they come into my territory.

I don't hunt rattlesnakes. I won't go out of my way to find one. But when one shows up on my patio, in my yard, or in my garage it is time to take care of business. Rake, shovel, trash bag, hose down the area to get rid of the mess.

 

[Travis Montana]

With no rattlesnakes what would we use for boots? My snake boots are the most comfortable.