Virginia Rattlesnake Removal and Snake Control

rattlesnake removal in virginia

Call (804) 729-0046 or toll-free (888) 824-7383

Rattlesnake removal in Virginia is not a safe DIY job. Timber rattlesnakes are venomous pit vipers, and bites require immediate medical attention. If you’ve found a rattlesnake in a home, yard, barn, shed, crawlspace, or business, we can help with safe, professional removal.

Virginia DWR notes timber rattlesnakes are most common in mountain regions of western Virginia, with a small southeastern Virginia population known as the canebrake rattlesnake.

Venomous Snakes in Virginia (Quick Context)

Virginia DWR states there are three venomous snake species in the Commonwealth: Northern Copperhead, Eastern Cottonmouth, and Timber Rattlesnake.

If you’re unsure what you’re seeing, treat it as a venomous snake and keep your distance. For broader help, see our Snake Removal in Virginia page.

Timber Rattlesnake and Canebrake Rattlesnake in Virginia

Common Name

Timber Rattlesnake

Scientific Name

Crotalus horridus

Canebrake rattlesnake

In Virginia, the Coastal Plain population is commonly referred to as the canebrake rattlesnake. Virginia DWR lists the canebrake rattlesnake (Coastal Plain population of timber rattlesnake) as State Endangered.

Where they are found

  • Timber rattlesnakes: common mainly in the mountainous regions of western Virginia
  • Canebrake (Coastal Plain population): limited range in southeastern Virginia, with DWR describing occurrences in the lower York–James Peninsula area and surrounding localities.

How to Recognize a Rattlesnake (Safer Identification)

The most obvious feature is the rattle at the end of the tail. No other Virginia snake has a hard rattle, though some harmless snakes may “buzz” leaves by vibrating their tails.

Pit vipers (including rattlesnakes) typically have:

  • A heat-sensing pit between the eye and nostril
  • Vertical pupils
    (These traits are commonly used in identification resources, but don’t get close enough to check them.)

Rattlesnake Problems We Handle

We commonly respond to:

  • Rattlesnake in the yard (near woodpiles, rock edges, sheds, fencing)
  • Rattlesnake in a garage, shed, barn, or crawlspace
  • Snake in a home (basement, attic access areas, utility rooms)
  • Shed skins and concern about repeated activity
  • “Snake sightings” where pets/kids are present and you want a safety plan

What To Do If You See a Rattlesnake

Do this

  • Keep a safe distance and keep eyes on it (from far away)
  • Bring pets and children inside
  • Block off the area if you can do so safely
  • Call a professional for removal

Don’t do this

  • Don’t try to catch, pin, or kill it
  • Don’t use glue boards outdoors for large snakes
  • Don’t corner the snake (that increases bite risk)

If Someone Is Bitten

Snakebites are a medical emergency. UVA Health advises seeking emergency care and notes copperheads and timber rattlesnakes are the main venomous snakes in many parts of Virginia.

General first-aid guidance commonly recommended by poison/medical sources includes:

  • Call emergency services or get to an ER immediately
  • Keep the person calm and limit movement
  • Do not cut, suck, or apply a tourniquet
    (For Virginia-focused snakebite info, see Blue Ridge Poison Center materials.)

How We Control Rattlesnake Problems (What Works)

1) On-site assessment

We confirm the situation, identify risk areas, and determine the safest removal approach.

2) Safe removal

We remove the snake using professional handling methods designed to reduce risk to people and pets.

3) Prevention recommendations

Long-term reduction often includes:

FAQ: Rattlesnake Removal in Virginia

Are rattlesnakes common in Virginia?

Virginia DWR notes timber rattlesnakes are common mainly in western Virginia’s mountains, with a small southeastern Virginia population often called the canebrake rattlesnake.

Is the canebrake rattlesnake protected in Virginia?

Yes. Virginia DWR lists the Coastal Plain population (canebrake) as State Endangered.

What attracts rattlesnakes to a property?

Usually food (rodents) and shelter (woodpiles, rock edges, brush, cluttered areas). Reducing both lowers repeat sightings.

Can you “snake-proof” a home?

We can recommend and perform practical steps like screening/repairing low entry points and reducing attractants. (Complete “snake-proofing” depends on the structure and surrounding habitat.) See our Snake Removal in Virginia page for broader help.

Do you provide rattlesnake removal statewide in Virginia?

Yes—our snake removal and wildlife services are provided statewide.

Service Area: Statewide (Virginia)

We provide service across the Central Virginia, Northern Virginia, Tidewater / Hampton Roads, and the Shenandoah Valley / Southwest Virginia regions.

For the full list of the cities, counties and towns where we provide service, visit:

If you don’t see your city listed, contact us—we often serve nearby areas and can confirm availability quickly.

Contact Us for Rattlesnake Removal in Virginia

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Call (804) 729-0046 or toll-free (888) 824-7383