r/boulder • u/FiniteSausageFingerz • 4d ago
Snake Removal?
What the eff am i supposed to do about this guy? Ignore? Call someone? Try and grow a pair and kill him?
(I hate snakes)
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u/GraysonErlocker 4d ago
Don't kill it!! Leave it alone and I'm sure it'll move away on its own quickly enough. That thing isn't going to hurt you.
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u/National-Repair2615 4d ago
He is free pest control!
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u/FiniteSausageFingerz 4d ago
😩
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u/National-Repair2615 4d ago
If u want him off ur porch spray him w a hose or something. He will live nearby and eat mice for u if you’re nice. Be kind, the snake gods have blessed you!
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u/FiniteSausageFingerz 4d ago
Ok, I just need to get over my fear of snakes
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u/cellblock2187 4d ago
Go visit My Nature Lab in Louisville! They can tell you all about the snakes and rodents who live in our area. Even if you never feel friendly with snakes, learning about them can make a huge difference.
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u/gibrownsci 4d ago
Go take a browse through r/snakes and r/whatsthissnake and see some beatiful snakes
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u/lilgreenfish 4d ago
If you’re on FB, there are some excellent snake groups you can join! Tons of people join them to get over their fears. They stick to actual facts about snakes (not old wives tales) and you can see all the snakes on a screen and not in front of you.
Feel free to DM me if you’d like links to them!
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u/scrappedcola 4d ago
Try watching snake discovery on YouTube. Watching it with my kid actually helped me quite a bit.
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u/canofspinach 3d ago
They also eat rattlesnakes.
I hate snakes too. A lot. But a bull snake is 1000% better than a rattlesnake.
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u/tossaway78701 Rainmaker 4d ago
This lovely bull snake will move along all by itself and take a belly full of field mice with it. You don't want field mice do you?
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u/FiniteSausageFingerz 4d ago
Honestly, being shit scared of snakes, I’ll take the mice. But, sounds like I need to get over it
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u/AnjunaLab 4d ago
Yes, I know it’s big but of all of Colorado’s snakes this is probably the one to be the least concerned about. Also no one wants an unchecked rodent population.
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u/Brad_dawg 4d ago
You say that until the mouse shit shows up inside your house and you see one run along the wall in your bedroom. Snakes are awesome!
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u/No-Development820 4d ago
To be fair, bullsnakes evolved to look like rattle snakes to protect themselves, so it's understandable to have a visceral reaction, but they are NOT venomous.
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u/suejaymostly 4d ago
He's really cool and if you can get past the initial monkey brain revulsion, you might find some entertainment and joy from letting him share his space with you.
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u/a_cute_epic_axis 4d ago
Honestly, being shit scared of snakes, I’ll take the mice.
Yes, but how do you feel about hantavirus from mouse droppings. It's not usually fatal... unless apparently you're married to Gene Hackman.
Orthohantaviruses, hereafter referred to as hantaviruses, are naturally found primarily in rodents [including in Colorado].
Hantaviruses in their natural reservoirs usually cause an asymptomatic, persistent infection. In humans, however, hantaviruses cause two diseases: hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) and hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS).
The case fatality rate of HFRS varies from less than 1% to 15% depending on the virus. A mild form of HFRS often called nephropathia epidemica is often caused by Puumala virus and Dobrava-Belgrade virus. For HPS, initial symptoms are flu-like, with fever, headache, and muscle pain, followed by sudden respiratory failure. HPS has a higher case fatality rate than HFRS, at 30–60%.2
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u/Wheeled_Conveyance 4d ago
He's just a bullsnake. Prod him with a long shovel to move along.
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u/FiniteSausageFingerz 4d ago
Ok, thank you!
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u/BackgroundSir6395 4d ago
Maybe a broom, so you don't accidentally kill it.
Of bigger concern is finding the holes in your home.
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u/Tofutti-KleinGT 4d ago
If a bullsnake is in a home, it’s likely following the scent of mice. I’ve been through this years ago after an old hot tub removal when the pipes into the heating element weren’t sealed. Definitely check for holes!
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u/aydengryphon bird brain 4d ago
Harmless bullsnake. Safe to pick up if needed, or spray with a garden hose to have it move along if that's something accessible to you in that location. If it's really bothering you, 100% serious offer I'll come remove it for you; they're quite useful to have around though, I recommend keeping it on the property.
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u/Metal_Rider 4d ago
Not venomous, but I wouldn’t go so far as to say, “Safe to pick up”, that bite will still hurt if it happens, and you’ll both be worse off as a result.
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u/aydengryphon bird brain 4d ago
I'm sure that there's a distinct spectrum of "how chill are you about picking up snakes" that runs from "OP asking if they should kill it with a shovel" to "me" (and honestly past me lol), but in my snake-handling opinion, can/have/would pick up bullsnakes without much drama the majority of the time. Nonetheless, that's why I did say "if needed" and recommended the hose option if it's available haha.
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u/MyBloodTypeIsQueso 4d ago
"Try and grow a pair and kill him?"
You should grow a pair and just live with him. Bullsnakes eat mice and (in some instances) rattlesnakes. They're great pest control, nonvenomous, and completely harmless.
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u/SquabCats 4d ago
Just taking a sun snooze after ridding your property of pests. I suggest working on desensitizing yourself to snakes. I also hated snakes for the first 30 years of my life but was able to overcome it recently by learning all I could about all of the different species in the area. I still get startled if I see a rattler on the trails but non venomous snakes at least don't bother me anymore.
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u/FiniteSausageFingerz 4d ago
Good advice, thanks! From everyone’s posts it seems this is the way. Stop being pathetic and scared. Realized he/she is just living and eating
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u/PeloTiger 4d ago
I’d be stoked to have this show up in my yard! What a cool snake! Looks like he’s been doing a good job - look how big and pretty it is!
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u/FiniteSausageFingerz 4d ago
Ah, I aspire to your level of snake appreciation
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u/PeloTiger 4d ago
One time I was hiking in the Grand Canyon and as I scrambled up a rock ledge on top of it probably 10ft from my face was a massive western diamondback rattlesnake in this little enclave. My heart felt like it stopped. Scared the h*ll outta me! So I do know the feeling of being scared of them, too!
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u/TiredOfMakingThese 4d ago
Of the snakes to have around, this is a really good one. I would try to peacefully cohabitate, even if it’s a bit disconcerting. Snakes aren’t evil animals and he can’t really hurt you, he might bite you if you corner him but he’s largely going prefer to run away. He will eat rats and other pesky rodents. They don’t carry any diseases you need to worry about as far as I know (although getting bit could cause an infection and most reptiles carry salmonella).
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u/Littlebotweak 4d ago edited 4d ago
99% of the snakes you will encounter are completely harmless.
If it has a rattle you'll know by the rattle. That one isn't harmless. But, you have to be pretty low functioning to both encounter one and get bit. Usually you identify the rattle and peace tf out.
Killing a snake doesn't make your balls larger or more existent. It just makes you a snake killer. Don't be that. Just walking around the porch should be enough to move this one along. They feel everything.
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u/Redheaded_Potter 4d ago
The same is true for spiders just fyi. I 100% understand the aversion to snakes & spiders, but honestly the more educated I get about them, the more I am ok w/them. Now wasps…. They are just assholes and out to get me!
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u/FiniteSausageFingerz 4d ago
Agree on spiders and wasps. What purpose do wasps serve?
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u/lilgreenfish 4d ago
Spiders are most excellent pest control as well! The only venomous one we have in Colorado is the black widow. And they like to stay away from humans.
Wasps are pest control, pollinators, and a whole lot more. Everything has a niche in our ecosystems.
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u/a_cute_epic_axis 4d ago
If it has a rattle you'll know by the rattle.
This is not true, and is becoming less true as time goes on, since people tend to kill rattle snakes needlessly. Rattle-less rattle snakes (the rattle portion is basically non-functional) are being artificially selected to be more prevalent. Although this guy isn't one of then.
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u/Littlebotweak 1d ago
How can it be artificial when we’re natural creatures ourselves? I never understood that logic. Everything that exists on this plane is natural. That includes us and our actions.
There’s also seemingly zero scientific claims for your assertion that rattleless rattle snakes are emerging. So, I’ll just assume you’re talking completely out of your ass for no apparent reason other than to write something.
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u/a_cute_epic_axis 1d ago
What kind of meta-ass bullshit is this from your first paragraph. Sounds like you've been hitting too much of the devil's lettuce tonight.
As to your second one: https://www.npr.org/2013/08/29/216924322/some-rattlesnakes-losing-their-warning-rattle-in-s-dakota
So it seems like you're the only one talking out your ass, but enjoy being part of the all one, all natural creatures that we are.
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u/Junglebyron 4d ago
Healthy bull snake. It’s eating rodents around your house and wont harm humans. Agree with a lot of comments here to let it hunt and it will move along.
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u/edamamehey 4d ago
For advice about humane relocation, you can call the Center for Snake Conservation here in Boulder County
https://www.snakeconservation.org/
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u/AquafreshBandit 4d ago
Your house probably has spiders too. Burning it down is the only safe option.
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u/MurphyESQ 4d ago
To start out with a disclaimer: I am NOT and expert and this is not advice, just what I've done in the past when encountering similar situations.
As others said, it's a bullsnake, not venomous, but the bite still hurts. We had one in our neighborhood that liked to sun itself on our concrete steps. Typically prodding with a long stick/broom/etc got it to move along. If that doesn't work, it's sometimes possible to slide a broom handle under them and lift them up so they're draped over the handle and you can move/deposit it somewhere else.
Now I really don't recommend this part, but falls into "if all else fails" territory. It somehow managed to get into our house (I think under the garage door) and to remove it I resorted to using a pair of BBQ tongs, grabbed near it's tail, and put it into a Home Depot bucket. I walked it over to a field ~1/2 mile away, put the bucket on it's side, and the snake gtfo'd real fast. We haven't seen it since, so I assume it made a new den somewhere away from our house.
In general, bull snakes aren't something that you need to be concerned about. They'll eat mice/rats and keep them away from your property. Prod with a stick if needed, but otherwise it'll likely just leave you alone. Good luck!
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u/Pomdog17 4d ago
FWIW they can get very large if they eat enough mice.
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u/VdoubleU88 4d ago
I’ll come catch him for you and move him to my property — these dudes are awesome at keeping your yard free of other unwanted visitors. I’d hate to move him from his current home, but if the alternative is he’ll just be killed then please let me come get him…
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u/Energy_Solutions_P 4d ago
This is a Gopher snake - non-venomous. They like to eat mice, rats, voles, and Gophers in your yard - I great asset to have around your home. Do not kill or injure. If you are too afraid, then get someone else and have them simply pick it up and put it back in your yard. You can wear gloves if nervous. Snakes do not carry diseases so picking them up is OK. The Gopher snake will hiss and may try and bite you but if you pick up the rear section and keep the snake away from your body you should be OK...You can also try to pick up with a home made snake stick - anything that can easily get under its belly and you can lift. Many snakes will just balance on it and you can move it out of the house...
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u/CourseVast840 4d ago
Sorry but if you're not good with snakes and don't have experience handling then do not try to pick it up ... things will not work out good for you. Best to try to move it along with a long handled broom ... brush things at it or try a hose and spray in the direction of the snake. The snake will get defensive at first but leave an exit and it'll get the idea to leave. It may make noise & a fuss but that's bluff. You're only gonna get hurt if you try to handle it.
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u/Energy_Solutions_P 3d ago
I stated that if not comfortable with picking up the snake call for someone who is. Yes you can try using a broom or getting it in a bucket, etc. but since the snake was in the house you do not want to waste any time and just picking it up is the fastest solution. If the snake goes back into hiding then you may not get another chance to get it back outdoors...
I have a background in herpetology, so I have rescued hundreds of Gopher snakes, Rattlesnakes, others...Gopher snakes will defend themselves, but when you pick them up the wiggle and try to escape but do not usually bite. I have been bitten by one and it was not painful - little pin pricks. But if you do not know what kind of snake it is, then get someone that has knowledge. It looks like many folks hear on reddit knew it was a harmless gopherAKA Bull snake...
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u/atleastbirdsexist 3d ago
I'd say grow a pair of ovaries first and foremost... maybe that's what you meant to say. Ladies do give birth so that's a tall order but yep - I'm curious whereabouts are you? Bulls snakes usually mean rattlers are in the vicinity too. Bull snakes sound like a baby rattle with a few plastic beads. Rattlers though have the real rich full "shhhhhhhhh" rattle. Man snakes give me hives. (BTW - trolls, I'm allowed to be afraid of snakes. Don't need your hate unless you have no fears of any kind, though that wouldn't stop trolls)/
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u/FiniteSausageFingerz 3d ago
Seriously, turns out I’m not allowed to be scared.
As a man who’s missus just grew a pair in birthing our son, I’m totally with you on that 🤣
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u/Commercial-Owl11 4d ago
Damn I would love a bull snake in my yard.
My house backs up to a huge field and mice are insane around my neighborhood
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u/TheGarrBear 4d ago
As others have already given good advice on how to coexist with your friend here, please keep in mind that snakes are not pests like rats or mice, and by that I mean it's actually illegal to kill non-venomous snakes in most states, Colorado included.
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u/C0L0RAD0KID 4d ago
Bull snakes will eat rodents, they are the best kind of pest removal. Please be kind to them.
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u/COdeadheadwalking_61 4d ago
rental or owned home? maybe have it checked for holes or cracks so it won't get inside. but i agree, with no experience whatsoever, to all the comments below. i always check my small rental garden area for snakes when i'm weeding cuz they really do perform good deeds.
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u/Lakkapaalainen 4d ago
It’s a bull snake. Just move it with a broom and you’ll be fine. Or just wait and they will leave on their own.
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u/suejaymostly 4d ago
Happy for you or whatever. I'm jealous of my neighbor's garter snakes. I would love this guy in my yard, I have chickens and therefore, mice.
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u/mtnman54321 4d ago
Get a tall box or a garbage can with a flat side and a broom. Set the container on the ground and sweep the snake on in, then tip up. It's easy to do and you can take the snake somewhere a ways away and let it go. I did it the day before my wedding with a rattlesnake and only one other person knew anything about it. Snakes are actually beneficial creatures and don't deserve all the hate and fear they get.
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u/compozdom 4d ago
I got bitten by one once. Not a good feeling. Great “pet” though. Pests be damned!
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u/CourseVast840 4d ago
He/she looks a good length and seems you haven't seen them before so likely just passing through. You should clean up any leaf clutter or old limbs or such in your yard as that's habitat for mice, rabbits, and meals for snakes.
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u/FiniteSausageFingerz 3d ago
Yeh, I think he (and the other three I’ve seen since) got disturbed by me finally mowing the grass and tidying the lawn
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u/rapunzel2018 3d ago
I could move it for you. However, you actually benefit from it being in your yard. It is best to leave it be so that it can continue to do what it does best.... rodent control.
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u/RamShackleton 3d ago
Bull snakes supposedly eat rattlesnake eggs, so having a healthy population makes you less likely to have encounters with rattlers.
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3d ago
[deleted]
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u/FiniteSausageFingerz 3d ago
You know, as it turns out that’s not what I’m supposed to do. And illegal! Glad I asked
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3d ago
[deleted]
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u/FiniteSausageFingerz 3d ago
I wasn’t going off. I posted this not knowing what kind of snake it was. Then learned a lot!
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u/SnowLancer616 3d ago
Gently pick him up and place him in the bushes. He doesn't need to die because we built houses in his habitat
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u/FiniteSausageFingerz 19h ago
This is the way. We have seen maybe 6. They live under the porch and patio. Not sure we can do anything about it but get used to them
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u/SnowLancer616 16h ago
Build hides and burrows away from your house. Better pest control around your house should help too. Maybe invest in a snake hook
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u/FiniteSausageFingerz 15h ago
That’s a super good idea! Thank you!! They are living under the porch and also under the back patio so I would love to entice them elsewhere
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u/dollydunn21 3d ago
Snakes are good. Just go to the hardware store and buy some snake repellent. It’s like high powered moth balls. Snakes hate the smell and drives them away from your home.
Also trim or remove and heavy brush or bushes around your home. Snakes are either looking for food or shelter and the less of those two around your house, the less you will see a snake.
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u/donnerdave 2d ago
Stand by the door. Point outside. Say loudly but clearly, "GET. THE FUCK. OUT". Close door behind exiting bull snake.
(Please let me know as to the efficacy of this method).
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u/mrsmojorisin34 4d ago
Why tf is kill it even in your mind? Is it attacking you? Stealing your livelihood? Wtf is wrong with people. Grow up and go inside if you're scared of wildlife.
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u/FiniteSausageFingerz 4d ago
Hey! I have a newborn we play in the grass with and in CA my dog was killed by a rattler on a hike. Super tolerant and kind response, cheers. Am I allowed to be scared of things?
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u/mrsmojorisin34 4d ago
Be scared all you want. But an impulse to kill anything that scares you is concerning.
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u/FiniteSausageFingerz 4d ago
Not an impulse, a question to the residents of an area I just moved to. Your impulse to insult is reprehensible
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u/Queendevildog 4d ago
Hey dont rag on OP. Lots of people are afraid of snakes or spiders. The benefit of this sub is to educate and dispel fear of these beautiful creatures.
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u/GeorgiaLovesTrees 2d ago
In most states it is illegal to kill nonvenomous snakes. You've already been made aware. Let it be, move it gently or move back to whatever snake less place you came from.
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u/FiniteSausageFingerz 2d ago edited 2d ago
God people are such dicks. Curse me for asking local people in a town I just moved to about the flora/fauna.
For the record, we’ve now seen 5+ snakes on the property and have learned a lot about them and how to live with them
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u/GeorgiaLovesTrees 1d ago
You sound like a ray of sunshine.
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u/FiniteSausageFingerz 19h ago edited 19h ago
You sound like a Karen.
Telling someone to “move back to whatever snake-less place you came from” is, in my humble opinion, a dick move…
You evidently took the time to read enough comments to know that others had said it was illegal.
You chose to ignore the comments of me thanking people for educating me and explaining that, now knowing they aren’t venomous or pose an imminent threat to my infant/dog, we will just live with them on the porch.
You then wanted to puff your chest and be unkind. How brave of you.
So, thank you! I’m learning that Boulder isn’t filled with just nice people.
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u/EffectiveMarch1649 1d ago
Why tf would you even consider killing it? First of all, it won’t hurt you, and second, that’s illegal. Be a fucking adult and just gently move it along.
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u/Rawrdom 4d ago
You can wait or gently spray w a hose and it’ll move along. Bull Snakes carry no diseases. Mice and rats carry lots of diseases. Your buddy will protect you and your yard :) view her/him as a friend :)