The snake wasn’t behaving aggressively, yet I immediately kept my distance and made sure my daughter remained safely indoors. What concerned me even more was remembering that we had seen a similar animal around the property before. Repeated sightings made me realize it was worth examining the yard for places where wildlife might be finding shelter.
Rather than approaching or attempting to remove the snake myself, I kept everyone away from the area. I also inspected the property for tall grass, piles of leaves, stacked wood, rocks, and other sheltered spaces that could attract or hide wildlife. The experience became an opportunity to teach my daughter why wild animals should never be touched, even when they appear harmless.
The encounter reminded us that finding wildlife in a yard doesn’t automatically mean immediate danger, since animals may simply be searching for food, water, or shelter. Staying calm, keeping a safe distance, maintaining the property, and contacting a qualified wildlife professional when necessary are safer responses. Since that afternoon, we’ve become much more careful whenever the children play outside.
