Eastern hognose snake
Source: iNaturalist
Native Texas snakes are a vital part of our ecosystem. In the spring and summer months, snakes are more active due to an increase in their prey’s activity. Snakes are a great form of pest control, as their diet consists of rodents, frogs, eggs and more. Chances are that you may encounter a snake along a pathway, in your yard, or at a local park. The good news is that all but three of the snakes commonly found in The Woodlands are nonvenomous, meaning that they do not produce a toxic venom.
Diamondback water snake among rocks
Source: Chicago Herpetological Society
Texas rat snake on a branch
Let’s Get Acquainted
Most snake species are shy and generally keep out of sight. They travel alone and prefer brush, rocks and woodpiles. Multiple snakes will share a den for winter hibernation, emerging in late February through early March. They are active during the day in spring and fall and at night during the summer to avoid the intense heat.
All snakes are strictly carnivorous. The type of prey varies by the species and may include mice, rats, frogs, birds, squirrels, rabbits, lizards, insects, eggs, snails, scorpions and smaller snakes. Aquatic species, like the diamondback water snake, also eat fish, crustaceans and amphibians.
Snakes play an integral role in maintaining a balanced ecosystem by keeping prey populations in check. For example, controlling the rodent population results in the reduction of common diseases like hantavirus, lymphocytic chorio-meningitis and salmonellosis.
Rough green snake on gravel
Source: South Carolina Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation
Preventing Snake Bites
Most snakes in The Woodlands are harmless and an important part of the ecosystem, especially in controlling rodents. Snake bites are usually the result of them being surprised or cornered and are easily avoided with a few precautions. Because most snakes live on or near the ground, many bites happen around the ankle; in fact, about 99% of all bites occur below the knee.
Safety Tips:
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Wear protective clothing; fangs are sharp but break easily and rarely penetrate leather shoes or boots. Long-sleeved shirts and pants will help further reduce your risk.
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Watch where you step, sit down, or put your hands (never reach blindly into a hole).
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Avoid stepping over a log without first seeing what is on the other side. If you must move a log, use a long stick or garden tool first to ensure snakes are not nearby.
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Use a flashlight when moving around at night.
Around the Home:
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Keep the grass short, shrubs trimmed, and flowerbeds free from debris.
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Limit wood and brush piles and keep them away from the residence.
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Keep storage sheds and garages as neat as possible.
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Treat overturned boats, plant pots, tarps and similar objects as potential shelter for snakes.
Removal
When removing wildlife from your private property, it is best to call a professional.
Keep in mind that living in a densely forested area means that you may encounter snakes at local parks, ponds and along trails. Follow the recommended responses above during an encounter and avoid handling any wildlife. Snakes are a valuable asset to the health of our forests, and we don’t want to remove them from their natural home.
Eastern garter snake among brush
Source: Snake Radar
Western milksnake on concrete
Source: Amphibians and Reptiles of Louisiana
More Information
People looking at snakes in glass cages
Join us at Woodlands Landscaping Solutions to learn more about venomous and non-venomous snakes from Nate Wells from Snakes of The Woodlands! Come and see the snakes up close (but locked in safe containers) and ask our snake expert questions about these creatures!
Visit us at Woodlands Landscaping Solutions on Saturday, September 26, 2026, from 9 a.m. to noon at The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Recreation Center (6464 Creekside Forest Drive).
For more information, contact the Environmental Services Department at enviro@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov or 281-210-3800.