Got Snakes?

Rick Knigge, the snake guy, became nature and snake aware when he moved from the city to a rural area some years ago. He discovered that it's possible to really take the city out of a person as he became enamored with reptiles, starting wrangling non-venomous snakes before learning how to handle rattlesnakes out of necessity. One day, it struck him that many people in the area might have issues with unwanted snakes, which led him to wrangle snakes for the past seven years. Rick is self-taught, starting at 13, having watched countless videos to learn which tools to use. He offers his services throughout Storey and Lyon counties, particularly favoring the area from the bottom of Geiger Grade to Silver Springs and south to Jacks Valley, covering all of Dayton. While he accepts donations, he mentioned that each trip costs about $40 for expenses. However, he won't turn away anyone who can't pay, especially seniors. He conducts thorough searches for other snakes and carefully relocates them to their natural habitats.

Rick has been bitten once. He takes responsibility for it, and he is still recovering. He and his doctor are hopeful for full functional use of his finger. His advice is to stay calm and have someone get you to medical assistance right away. Snake venom kits are not effective, and a hospital is your best option for care.

Rick has some insight about snakes. Number one, they want to be left alone and don't generally strike unless they feel threatened. Leaving food and water outside for other animals will attract small critters, and they, in turn, attract snakes. They don't always rattle a warning. Keep your dog on a leash, as dogs are curious and will mistake the snake for a toy. While hiking, wear boots and walk in the middle of the trail, staying clear of low bushes that snakes use for shade. Snakes venture out more in the morning and evening; the heat of the day drives them to cooler places, such as porches, garages, and patios. The snakes look for a quiet, shaded corner to hide during the day. Rick said many people ask him what a snake sounds like, and his best description is an air leak, like from a tire; however, they all sound different.

Rick responded to 21 rattle snake calls for assistance in 2024, and he caught 19 snakes, which is a great success rate. He reminds people that they are not always in a group, especially when traveling in the summer. Rick says that many people want to meet him; however, nobody wants to need him. You can reach out directly to Rick for snake removal at (530) 310-2770.