Predators on the Homestead – Use a Shovel When Dealing with Rattlesnakes
My preferred tool for dispatching rattlesnakes.
Sometimes rattlesnakes can’t be dissuaded or discouraged, and sometimes it isn’t wise to simply relocate them when they come to visit. At times, killing them is the only reasonable thing to do, especially when they pose an immediate threat and you need to deal with that threat decisively.
The macho among us would like to undertake this task with guns blazing and bird shot flying. I’ve even heard of someone approaching the task with a .45 caliber pistol. There is an easier, quieter and much more effective method.
It’s the lowly flat blade shovel.
It’s not very macho. It’s not exciting. There isn’t much glory in it, but it gets the job done. If you’re deciding between being heroic and being effective, pick effectiveness as it’s usually the best choice.
When it comes to dispatching rattlesnakes, the flat blade shovel is highly effective. Here’s why:
- It keeps the snake at a distance.
- There is no ricochet.
- I’ve never heard of an accidental discharge of a flat blade shovel.
- The tool is useful for seeking out and destroying the enemy.
- It’s legal everywhere – at school, in church and even at the mall.
- There is no need for a holster.
- It’s easy to learn how to handle it.
- Everyone has one – or should.
- You never run out of ammunition.
- It can be used to push, chop, pick up and fling a snake if needs be.
With all that going for it, why in the world would anyone want to reach for the artillery when there is something as useful as a flat blade shovel? Here’s how to use it to take care of pesky snakes, poisonous or otherwise.
-
"Mine sweeping" for rattlesnakes.
Sweep the shovel back and forth with the blade parallel to the ground – this helps find where the snake is hiding as it will move when you violate its air space with the shovel.
- Once you have the snake moving away from you, find the right opportunity to press down firmly on the head and neck area with the flat blade to pin it to the ground.
A broad and flat blade provides more surface area and that means more snake holding power.
- Maneuver the blade carefully (pivot, slide and rock) to allow the snake’s head to peek out from under the leading edge of the blade (the part you dig or scoop with).
A wider blade means you can't miss when severing the head from the snake.
- While keeping the snake pinned, tilt the handle of the shovel up and step down on the blade to sink it well into the ground. This severs the head and eliminates the threat. Keep the blade sunk down into the soil and wiggle it back and forth until you’re sure you’ve severed the head.
- Discard of the head carefully as there are still fangs and venom to be dealt with. Again, use the handy shovel for this. It’s a multi-purpose tool – finding, pinning, killing and disposing of the head and body. space
When engaging a snake, do so very deliberately and without timidity, as any uncertainly about what you’re doing can lead to a snake bite. Be brave and deliberate about your actions, and you’ll be able to deal with the snake quickly and effectively.
____________________________
Clair Schwan has gone in with a flat blade shovel and done what others with firearms failed to do when faced with a rattlesnake. When it comes to poisonous snakes, he isn’t concerned about being pretty or “looking good,” he simply wants to be effective.
4 Responses to “Predators on the Homestead – Use a Shovel When Dealing with Rattlesnakes”
Comments
Read below or add a comment...
Rumor has it that rattlesnake is quite tasty. Another reason to use a shovel blade and to avoid using buckshot or other form of lead poisoning . . .
Additionally, I have used a snow shovel to relocate a two foot long mouse trap out of my garage and back into the timbers at my place . . .
It’s not rumor – it’s true. Rattlesnakes tastes just like a real long chicken with fangs
.
And, I’m saving my “mouse trap” relocation story for another post. I have to dig around to find the picture first.
Back in the late ’80s, when we lived in Texas, I suddenly became captivated by the idea of rattlesnake meat. I’d never tasted it but I KNEW I’d love it. When we moved to Midland, we found out that the town up the road had a rattlesnake festival each year. I planned to ride my motorcycle up there and sample snake, but never got the chance. I’ve always regretted that. I’ve passed up a few opportunities to try it canned, figuring that is not the best way to sample a new food.
Even now, when I think of rattlesnake, my mouth waters!
Great article! That’s exactly how I do it. If I may add a tip. Sometimes the snake has disappeared by the time you return with your shovel. That is very disturbing. I learned to keep a heavy object to pin it to the ground while I get the shovel. I use one of those concrete segmented circles that you circle your tree or plants with. I have one of these in strategic locations throughout my property so I could keep an eye on the snake as I get it. A brick is too light and a cinder block too heavy for some ladies to carry and toss. Be careful picking up your weight as there might be a critter hiding behind it too! Approach the snake carefully and toss the weight on it to pin it down. The trick is to toss it from a safe non-striking distance. Once it is pinned, get your trusty shovel and follow the above most excellent steps. Good luck!