There are a few reasons that a rat snake might come into your house. One reason is that the snake is looking for food. Rat snakes are known to eat rodents so if there are rats or mice in your house the snake may be looking for a meal. Another reason is that the snake is looking for a place to hide. Rat snakes are known to be good climbers so they may be able to get into your house through an open window or door. Finally the snake may be looking for a mate. If there is a female rat snake in your house the male snake may be looking for her.
How did the rat snake get into the house?
Rat snakes are excellent climbers and can enter through small openings.
Is the rat snake harmful to humans?
No rat snakes are not harmful to humans.
In fact they are often considered beneficial because they help control rodent populations.
Will the rat snake stay in the house?
Rat snakes are typically wild animals and will eventually leave the house on their own.
However if there is a consistent food source inside the house the snake may stay.
What does the rat snake eat?
Rat snakes are carnivores and primarily eat rodents like rats mice and squirrels.
How can I get the rat snake out of the house?
The best way to remove a rat snake from a house is to gently guide it into a large container and then release it outside.
Should I be worried if I find a rat snake in my house?
No you should not be worried if you find a rat snake in your house.
Rat snakes are not venomous and are not typically aggressive unless they are provoked.
What is the difference between a rat snake and a rattlesnake?
Some rat snakes imitate the appearance of venomous rattlesnakes by shaking their tails when threatened but they are not related.
Rattlesnakes are a type of pit viper while rat snakes are constrictors.
What kind of habitat does a rat snake prefer?
Rat snakes are found in a variety of habitats but they typically prefer areas with dense vegetation that offer plenty of places to hide.
Are rat snakes endangered?
No rat snakes are not currently endangered.
However they are sometimes killed by humans who mistake them for venomous snakes.
How long do rat snakes typically grow?
Rat snakes can grow to be quite large with some specimens reaching lengths of over 8 feet.
What is the lifespan of a rat snake?
Rat snakes typically live for 10-12 years in the wild but captive specimens have been known to live for much longer.
Do rat snakes mate for life?
No rat snakes do not mate for life.
They typically mate once per year and the female lays a clutch of eggs which hatch after about two months.
How many eggs does a typical rat snake clutch contain?
A typical rat snake clutch contains 10-20 eggs.
How can I tell if a rat snake is male or female?
Male and female rat snakes can be distinguished by their cloacal spurs which are small pointed projections near the base of the tail.
Males have two of these spurs while females have only one.
What do baby rat snakes look like?
Baby rat snakes look very similar to adults but they are typically much smaller with lengths of only 8-10 inches.
