Peak Season For Encounters with Common Snakes in Tampa
While snakes can be found throughout the year, they become more active as temperatures in Florida increase. While there are over 50 species of snakes in Florida, only six are considered dangerous. It is crucial for residents to be aware of the common snakes in Tampa during this time and the associated risk factors of snake bites.
Species
Risk Factors

What Is a Snake?
Snakes are long, limbless reptiles. While there are over 3,000 species of snakes in the world, some common biological characteristics include:
- Overlapping scales
- Cold-blooded
- Carnivorous
The lifespan of snakes varies between species. Species that are smaller in length can live for five to ten years. Larger species like the Boa can live between 25 and 50 years. Snakes can also lay up to 60 eggs at a time. While not all hatched snakes survive, the reproduction rates of snakes can be significant to the environment.
Risk Factors of Snake Bites
If bothered, snakes can bite. Poisonous snakes will also require additional medical attention, so understanding the risk factors of snake bites is essential for residents to stay safe. Encounters with snakes can also bring up fear for many people. Snakes inside your home or property can be the cause of them looking for prey like small rodents or simply looking for somewhere cool to coil up.

Where Are They Commonly Found?
Common snakes in Tampa can be found in tall grass, overgrown shrubs or piles of brush, debris, or wood. Similar to spiders, they like finding hiding places. Many landscape elements make great places for them to escape the heat. Snakes may also coil up in garages or areas of your basement. Some snakes can also be found gliding across water sources like rivers, lakes, or pools.
Prevention
The best way to snake-proof your yard and minimize encounters with common snakes in Tampa, is by keeping the grass mowed as well as other landscaping clean and trimmed. Identifying holes or crevices around the exterior of your property is also a common prevention method. Sealing off these entrances will help keep snakes from getting somewhere they don’t belong.