I almost forgot to mention… yesterday I killed a snake in the yard, thanks to a sometimes-useful troop of guard cats.

I was working on the computer and was alerted to trouble when the entire collection of garden tools (normally neatly upright between the steps and the wall) came crashing down with a lot of noise.  I ran out to see my tools strewn against the steps and on the patio beneath it, and C-80 was nosing around down there.

I took the broom and swept around to see what got him so upset, and found a snake coiled into the little space.  It was none too pleased to be disturbed, but C-80 had his interest piqued.

it finally tried to slither away along the base of my trailer skirting.  I used the nose of my shovel to pierce it length wise, then pulled it out and chopped its head nearly off.  I scooped it up with the shovel and deposited it in the ditch.

it was only 12-15 inches long, and not even as big around as a regular ball point pen.   So, yeah, it was rather small and non-threatening.  but I have a feeling I will be having my doors open less often now.  I would strongly dislike finding even a tiny snake inside the house.   I already know there are some underneath, maybe in the walls.  But as long as they don’t show themselves, I’m okay.  🙂