Is It Illegal To Kill Snakes In Missouri

Alright, so you're out in your Missouri backyard, enjoying a nice sunny day, and suddenly, you spot a snake slithering across your lawn. Now, I'm not saying you should start a snake-conservation program in your backyard, but before you grab that shovel, let's chat about the legality of snake-slaying in the Show-Me State.

Snakes in Missouri: Friend or Foe?

First things first, Missouri is home to around 50 species of snakes, and only four of them are venomous. That's like finding a diamond in the rough among a pile of rocks - not as bad as you thought, right? So, before you go all 'Snake Plissken' on them, remember that most snakes are more scared of you than you are of them.

Now, I know what you're thinking, "But what if it's a cottonmouth or a copperhead? They're sneaky and dangerous!" Well, yes, they can be, but that's where our friend, the law, comes in.

When Can You Say 'Bye-Bye, Snakey'?

In Missouri, it's generally legal to kill a snake if it's on your property and you feel threatened. But here's the catch - it's got to be an imminent threat. We're not talking about the time little Timmy found a garden snake in the sandbox and you had a minor panic attack. We're talking about a snake that's coiled up, ready to strike, or is inside your home.

But here's where it gets a bit tricky. If the snake is on public property, like a park or a nature trail, it's illegal to harm or kill it. That's because these snakes have just as much right to be there as you do. Plus, they're helping control pest populations, like rats and mice. So, let's give them a little credit, yeah?

The Dennis Prager Show

What About Those Venomous Critters?

Now, if you've got a venomous snake on your property and you're worried about the safety of your family or pets, you have the right to protect them. But remember, these snakes are usually more interested in avoiding you than biting you. They're not out there looking for a fight.

If you're not comfortable handling the situation yourself, there are professionals who can help. Missouri has several snake-removal services that can safely relocate the snake. And hey, if you're feeling generous, you could even name the snake and release it into a nearby nature reserve. I'm kidding, I'm kidding. Sort of.

Learn about Missouri's venomous snakes at July 9 Missouri Department of

But What If I Accidentally Kill One?

If you accidentally kill a non-venomous snake, don't sweat it. It's not a big deal. But if you accidentally kill a venomous one, you might want to give the local wildlife authorities a call. They might want to come out and take a look, just to make sure there aren't any more in the area.

And remember, kids, snakes are a part of Missouri's ecosystem. They're not out to get us. They're just trying to live their lives, like the rest of us. So, let's give them a little respect and maybe, just maybe, they'll return the favor.

And there you have it, folks. The legality of snake-slaying in Missouri, all wrapped up in a neat little bow. Now, go forth and enjoy your snake-free (or snake-friendly, depending on how you look at it) Missouri backyard.