Eastwood Question--Snakes? (Orlando: home, subdivisions, live)

[OumMaghribia]

Hi everyone,

We are fairly new to Florida and are moving to a home in Eastwood (East Orlando, near Waterford Lakes). The home has a large lake directly behind it, at a very close distance. My question is: has anyone ever had a problem with snakes in their yard, especially being so close to a body of water? I'm a bit worried about poisonous snakes such as cottonmouths and corals, particularly the cottonmouths as I've heard they like water. Rattlesnakes are another concern.

I don't really care about garden snakes and other non-poisonous snakes; I have a small daughter, so I'm mostly concerned about her. I'd never let her play in the yard alone, anyway, especially with the lake right there, but the possibility of having an encounter with a poisonous snake throws a new wrench into the works.

I don't want to have to scan my yard every time I set foot in it. On the other hand, I'm assuming snakes can't be that big of a problem, as Central Florida is full of various lakes, ponds, streams, etc., and I don't think people would move into subdivisions knowing that they and/or their families have a serious risk of being bitten by a snake.

Any insight would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.

[Brasstec]

You are correct - being close to a body of water increases your chances of encountering a moccasin. However, they, like most other snakes will scurry to get away from you unless cornered. Keep your grass cut on a regular basis (snakes love the high grass), and instruct your daughter to not pick up any of those creatures or stick her hands in "gopher holes." Common sense goes a long way. In the last 5 years, I've only encountered 2 snakes (I live on the edge of 300 acres of woods). Both were around the (unscreened) pool - both were disposed of quickly.

[OumMaghribia]

Thanks for your reply. If I do see a snake which I suspect to be poisonous, should I call animal control? (I'd never consider trying to touch the creature myself.)

Have you ever heard of a product called "Snake Away" or something similar? Do you think it would be a good idea to use such a product, or just a waste of money?

We are going to have either a screened patio or a screened pool area put in, so that will minimize the possibility of encounters (I hope!). I just don't feel comfortable with my daughter playing in the yard so close to the water, for a variety of reasons.

You mentioned "gopher holes"--are most large holes in the ground here (I've seen quite a few) made by snakes?