Illinois is full of breathtaking sceneries, from the Shawnee National Forest in the south to the coast of Lake Michigan on the northern tip of the state. The Prairie State’s natural landscapes are home to much more than stunning views. The Midwest is home to all types of pesky wildlife like coyotes, bats, and rodents that may work their way onto your property or even worse: inside your house. However, with over 36 species of non-venomous snake and four venomous species of snake residing in Illinois, it’s quite likely that you may have an unwanted encounter with one of these slithering reptiles sooner than a bat or rodent. With an abundance of snakes in the state, understanding what kind of snakes you may encounter, whether they are dangerous, and how you can have them removed can help protect you and your property from these exciting yet frightening animals.
Whether they are forest-dwelling or semi-aquatic, snakes can be found in all kinds of places. Generally, snakes enjoy cool, dark, or moist areas to hide and hunt. Basements, pools, woodpiles, gardens, and junkpiles can attract snakes of all species, giving them a safe habitat and hunting ground, but may also have you crossing paths. Some Illinois species include:
Kingsnake is a non-venomous species that is one of the most common snakes in North America. They are identified by their vivid bands of color along their body and do not bite, killing their prey by constriction.
Garter Snake is another non-venomous species but can be aggressive when approached, identified by the stripe running the length of their body. They are often found within suburbs and in moist-vegetation due to their diet of amphibians.
Timber Rattlesnake is a highly venomous pit viper that has a reputation as one of North America’s most dangerous snakes due to its long fangs and venom yield.
Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake is a venomous snake common to Illinois with highly potent venom. Also known as a “swamp rattler,” these snakes are federally protected under the Endangered Species Act and are illegal to kill, requiring professional removal.
Like many other species of wildlife, snakes should not be indiscriminately killed if found on your property, and doing so may come with some legal consequences. Your initial reaction when coming face to face with these reptiles may be to harm the animal, but snakes have a vital role to play in our ecosystems. Snakes can be dangerous and tricky to catch and contain, requiring professional removal. If you have a snake problem, we advise you seek the help of a wildlife control expert like our team at Veteran’s Pride Wildlife Control. Veteran owned, and family operated, Veteran’s Pride has over 25 years of trapping experience and offers 24-hour service, solving all your snake and wildlife issues and ensuring they don’t return.