How many of you have actually paid a Snake Remover to remove a snake?

Question

A mid size 4ft snake showed up on my door step. I called 911 they told me to call Snake remover and they charged me $180 to remove the stupid snake.
Man I would have been better of if I had just kill the stupid snake. Shouldn't this be free if govt want to protect wildlife?

Answer 1

You should have called me I would have got it for nothing. Seriously though. Next time instead of calling a "snake remover" call the local animal control or a local wildlife rescue group. They will usually come get it for free or at least for a lot less than you paid for the professional snake remover guy. If knew where you lived I could give you some local numbers.

Answer 2

I have removed snakes for people before, so will answer from that viewpoint.

1.) The paid people get paid for time and so forth. They EARN their money with some animals, and just basically get a bonus with others. Snakes are usually almost pure profit.

2.) There are probably people around who would have done it for the price of a beer or a pizza. Your county extension service, a local nature center, etc. might know a local snake lover that will do it. Some animal shelters do it, as do wildlife rescuers, etc. Locally, we have a herpetology society (reptile club) that would have sent someone (like me). Heck, I've done it for a lot less than a pizza before!

3.) Most snakes don't need to be removed. Most snakes are not only harmless to you, but they are feeding on things you would consider pests. Killing or removing snakes mean that the rats, etc. will grow in number.

4.) In many places, believe it or not, there are laws protecting 'non-game wildlife' and you could be busted for doing that- even on your own property in some places! (OK, so I have never heard of anyone getting busted for it- it could happen... maybe!)

5.) Next time, just push it off the steps with a broom or something and let it run away. Snakes don't like people even more than we don't like them! Save yourself the fee AND the clean-up mess!

6.) Remember- for the government to do something for us for 'free', we have to pay in taxes, etc.

Answer 3

That's funny you called 911. If the snake wasn't coiled up and rattling or hissing, you should have just left it alone. Nice snakes eat pesky rodents and other snakes and maybe even your neighbors noisy Chihuahua. Heh
I shoot mean rattlesnakes only if they come into the yard.
The snake remover here doesn't charge that much because he mostly deals with rattlesnakes and sells the live snakes to clinics for anti-venom production.

Answer 4

Of course not, we aussies are born with a genetic predisposition to dispose of our own snakes thank you very much. Besides once you let them go again (if you wish) the wildlife is still protected (and sporting - the little buggers get their chance to have a go too).

But they are delicious with some garlic and shallotts and white wine roasted over hot coals. So your call :)

Answer 5

Unless it's an infestation of epic proportions, or if the snake was an endangered species, governments won't intervene.

Answer 6

i would never pay someone to remove a snake from my property. I am a reptile lover and would have removed it myself.

Answer 7

how about you grow some balls and remove it your damn self.

Answer 8

yes it should