What to do when you find a venomous snake

[AndrewGeibel]

Well for the summer I am redoing our entire backyard. Retaining wall, drainage system, sprinklers, fence, etc. The only problem is that occasionally I will encounter snakes. The non-venomous ones I just pick up and take out of the yard. What do you guys think I should do about the venomous snakes? The only ones I have seen are copperheads. Very very rarely we will see a rattle snake which I just won't deal with. I don't have any tools to handle hots, no snake hook etc. My dads solution is very simple however I don't really like it. What should I do?

[xdeus]

Take pictures!

Oh, you mean besides that? Is there somewhere near by that you can relocate them? If so, just have a secure container ready such as a small, locking trash can and guide it in using a large stick, pole, broom, etc. You should be okay as long as you don't freehand it.

If you're not comfortable doing that, see if there is someone nearby that is experienced with hots or see if your local animal rescue place has someone that can relocate it for you.

[AndrewGeibel]

Ya I could relocate it most likely. I'll give that a shot if I see one. Copperheads are hots but really aren't as bad as some others. I wouldn't be comfortable moving a rattler on my own though. I'll look into seeing if someone around me works with hots.

[sweety314]

Carefully using a rake, or shovel would work in place of a snake hook for moving the snake.

[Colin Vestrand]

these are not animals that you can really just 'relocate' FYI... don't want to start a debate, but snakes are not like bears. you can't just take them somewhere safe and leave them there. i'm not suggesting you do anything with them except educate those around you on how to avoid getting bitten and living harmoniously with semi-dangerous animals.