NC Snake Catcher Turns Panic Into Peace of Mind — 24/7

When Talena Chavis got her first snake call, it wasn’t from a client — it was personal. While house-sitting in Durham, she encountered two copperheads on the property. She did what most people would: she called for help. But the help wasn’t really there. One company told her they wouldn’t respond unless she was actively staring at the snake, and another said it would take three days. "That’s when I realized," Chavis says, "there was a real gap in this service."

Fast forward eight years, and NC Snake Catcher is now a household name for safe, humane snake removal across North Carolina. What began as a solo venture has grown into a dedicated team of six trained agents operating 24/7, with a clear mission: fight fear with facts.

The business doesn’t just remove snakes — it educates homeowners, offers free 24/7 snake identification (just text a photo to 919-867-0173), and performs preventative yard and crawlspace inspections to reduce future encounters. Whether it’s a copperhead under the propane tank or a black rat snake scaling an oak tree, Chavis and her team respond promptly and professionally.

One Raleigh homeowner shared their Sunday morning relief: “Nearly every service was closed, but Talena was here in 30 minutes. She quickly got the snake in a safe container, gave us great information, and went on her way. Fantastic service!”

Another reviewer recalled a tense episode with a snake taking up residence under their kitchen cabinet. NC Snake Catcher successfully relocated the unwanted guest. “She did not take advantage of her mother's fear. I hope I never have to go through this again, but if I do, they’ll be my first call! It was worth every penny.”

Chavis’ approach is grounded in expertise and respect for the animals she handles. In fact, she emphasizes that most snake encounters don’t require panic — just smart action. “The number one time people get bitten is when they try to capture or kill the snake themselves," she explains. "And after decapitation, a copperhead can still bite for up to eight hours.” It's a sobering reminder that DIY removal can be more dangerous than it's worth, especially when treatment costs for snakebites can exceed $18,000.

Beyond their rescue operations, NC Snake Catcher is deeply embedded in the community. They’ve sponsored events for animal-focused nonprofits like Blind Spot Animal Sanctuary and Blazing Trails Bottle Babies, and regularly provide free educational presentations to schools and libraries. During a recent talk at Durham County Regional Library, Chavis busted myths about venomous snakes and emphasized the ecological role these misunderstood creatures play.

“The reason we have such a copperhead issue,” she says, “is because people have killed off their natural predator: the Eastern kingsnake. If killing copperheads worked, I wouldn’t have a job.”

Chavis is quick to remind residents that snakes aren’t invaders — they’re neighbors. Black rat snakes, for example, are excellent rodent control, and copperhead venom is being studied for potential cancer-fighting properties. NC Snake Catcher is working to ensure people see snakes not just as threats, but as an essential part of North Carolina’s ecosystem.

Here's a summary of the legal and ethical considerations for snake removal:

1. Relocation Laws:

• Snakes can be legally relocated because they are not rabies vector species (unlike raccoons, which must be euthanized)

• It is ILLEGAL to relocate snakes without property owner permission

• Dumping snakes in public parks or random fields is against the law

2. Ethical Relocation Practices:

• Always obtain property owner consent before releasing a snake

• Use designated private conservation lands for snake release

• Focus on safely moving snakes without causing harm

• Be transparent with customers about relocation processes

3. Key Principles:

• Respect property rights

• Prioritize snake and human safety

• Follow local wildlife regulations

• Educate customers about proper snake handling

The unique aspect of this snake removal service is their access to private conservation lands, which allows for legal and responsible snake relocation, particularly for less desirable species like copperheads.

As our region grows and habitats overlap, NC Snake Catcher continues to be the calm voice on the line at any hour of the day (or night). If you spot a snake, remember: text a photo to (919) 867-0173 for free identification — and leave the rest to the professionals.

📞 Need Help with a Snake?

• FREE 24/7 Snake Identification Service:
  📸 Snap a photo of the snake from a safe distance and text it to (919) 867-0173 for expert identification.

• Professional Snake Removal & Yard Inspections:
  🚨 If you need a snake removed or want a professional yard inspection, call NC Snake Catcher anytime.

• 🌐 Website: www.ncsnakecatcher.com

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