Reduce the type of cover that’s attractive to snakes. Store firewood up off the ground and away from the house, says Mengak.

To estimate the maximum size prey a snake is capable of swallowing, “historically, folks have concentrated quite a lot on the dimensions of the bones,” Dr. Jayne said. “If you only measure ...

Snakes are beneficial because they eat rats, mice, and other animals deemed pests. See these tips on what to do if you encounter a snake.