APD reminds public to be mindful of snakes, call 911 if needed

AUSTIN, Texas (FOX 7 Austin) - APD is reminding the community to be on the lookout for snakes.

Snakes are more active this time of year, especially after rain. Snakes cannot tolerate extreme cold and will normally hibernate in the winter, emerging from their dens late February or early March in Texas.

The police department shared a photo of Officer Cummins, one of their snake-handler trained officers, with a large snake on their social media platforms on Monday, April 8. They reminded the community in the caption that you can call 911 if you find one and want it safely relocated. 

Snakes often occur in the vicinity of suburban and urban residential areas, according to Texas Parks and Wildlife. They can even show up occasionally in your backyard.

If the presence of snakes is deemed undesirable, removing their shelter is one of the most effective ways of discouraging them. Eliminating rock piles, brush piles, and areas of tall grass will cause snakes to seek a more suitable habitat. Controlling insect and rodent populations in the area will also help to discourage snakes by eliminating their food supply. 

To learn more about what you can do to discourage snakes, click here.