How to Use a Snake Catcher to Handle Snakes Safely?

Last Updated on October 15, 2024

There are a number of reasons for which a person may be having the requirement of using a snake catcher. Not just by a herpetologist, but for different scientific research purposes also the requirement for a snake catching tool is universal.

A snake catcher or a snake hook is an essential tool for people who keep or herp snakes. Snake hooks can be used for both pet and wild snakes. With the help of this one can safely handle, capture or transport a snake while ensuring a safe distance. This comes in handy for dealing with wild snakes or venomous snakes that pose risk to the handler. Aid from this will allow the handler to immobilize a striking snake and deal with it from a distance. So why use a normal wooden stick or a rod any longer when you can find affordable snake catchers and snake hooks these days?

How to use Snake Catching Tools?

Snakes are aggressive by nature if you try to place your hands in their cage. And also this is not advisable at any point in time. With the help of a snake hook, you can carefully lift the snake out of the cage and avoid any bites. Now, many may be wondering how exactly should they use a snake catcher to handle snakes safely. There is no rocket science behind it and you can easily catch a snake with the hook or catcher just like you would do with any other stick but with a lot more convenience. Some prefer using the Falcon FPSC-44 1220mm Snake Catcher, some opt for the Vimal Snake Catcher, but no matter what you use there are some important things that you should keep in mind always.

1. On no occasion would you want the snake to mistake your hand for food or bite you and this is why you should always wash your hands properly before using any snake catching tool. If you are dealing with a pet snake, then unclean hands may cause parasites to get transferred to your pet.
2. If you are trying to get hold of your pet snake, it is ideal that you make it seem that you are there, or feel the vibration.
3. To avoid startling or scaring the snake, it is ideal that you move slowly.
4. Apart from using a snake catcher, you should ideally also wear boots and protective gloves when handling the snake.
5. Using a long-range snake hook like the Flacon Snake Rescue Hook 36 Inch Handle Size FSRH-136 or the Flacon Snake Rescue Hook 48 Inch Handle Size FSRH-148 would also be helpful because they ensure safe distance.
6. When using a snake hook it is important to use it carefully otherwise you may injure the snake, which would not be an ideal thing to do in any case.
7. Remember to be behind the snake or diagonally to the snake’s head when removing it from while removing it from its cage.

Never try to pick up a wild snake with your hands. For relocating wild snakes as well, a snake catcher is very helpful. When using the snake hook to hook the snake you need to make sure that the weight is equally distributed over the hook so that the snake does not slide off. These hooks are easy to use when catching large and thick snakes but small and thin snakes can slide off the hook. When dealing with large snakes, you should hook the snake between the belly and the neck to prevent it from making any strikes and use your other hand to support the rest of the back half of the reptile.

 After using tips-

Even once you are done handling the snake using a snake catcher, do not forget to wash your hands so that you do not catch any bacteria.

What is the ideal Snake Hook size for use?

Snake hooks are available in different sizes and strengths. Depending on the weight, size and species of the snake that you want to catch, you should choose the appropriate snake catcher. The type of snake catching tool that you pick will also depend on whether you will be herping indoors or outdoors. Ideally, for herping, hook’s that are longer and stronger are used. You can give a try to the Falcon Snake Catcher Stick 6 Feet FPSC-66, or the Nile Snake Catcher Stick 2 inches x 5.5 feet which is just ideal for this purpose. When catching the snake indoors, it is advisable to use a smaller and lighter hook.

Is there any need to use Snake Bags?

Snake bags are a very essential item when transporting snakes from one location to another. This is the safest way to carry a snake from one place to the other and ensure that the snake does not escape while in transit. The comfort for the snake is also ensured inside the snake bag.

If you are planning to transport the snake, snake baggers or double-stitched snake bags are ideal to go for. You can safely place the snake in the bags using the snake hook. Ideally one can use snake bags like Flacon Snake Rescue Bag 36 Inch Handle Size FSRB-135. The snake bag can also come in handy when taking a snake to the vet.

Rounding off the discussion:

A snake hook is an essential tool for someone who works with these reptiles. Different types of hooks and snake catchers are available in the market, and you should choose one depending on your needs. While using the snake catcher, it is important to stay cautious and aware of the surroundings.