Quck answer
Yes, snakes can come up a toilet pipe. This happens when a snake enters the sewer system and finds its way into a toilet bowl or drainpipe. Snakes are attracted to the warm and moist environment of these pipes. To prevent this from happening, it is recommended to keep toilet lids closed, seal any gaps or cracks in pipes, and remove any potential food sources that may attract snakes. If a snake is found in a toilet, it is best to contact a professional wildlife removal service to safely remove it.
Animal Facts
While many people fear snakes, the idea of finding one in their toilet or shower drain is particularly frightening. However, the likelihood of this happening is extremely low. Although news stories may highlight these rare occurrences, they are not a common problem [source: Wickman]. In some cases, it is possible that the snake entered the toilet through the pipes. For example, in 2010, a corn snake was found in a 19th-floor toilet in New York City. Herpetologist Jack Conrad stated that it was possible for the snake to have swam through the pipes and squeezed through tight spaces [source: El-Ghobashy]. However, it is also possible for the snake to have entered the toilet through another means, such as climbing through a ventilation pipe on the roof of a home [source: Inside Edition]. Nonetheless, for a snake to enter a home through the toilet, it would have to first enter the sewer pipe and crawl upward into the toilet bowl. This scenario is unlikely, as most snakes would not survive for long periods in the relatively low temperatures found in sewer pipes [source: Walker].
Depending on the type of septic tank you have, a snake’s stay in it can vary in length. Anaerobic septic tanks don’t contain air, so a snake won’t last long before running out of oxygen. On the other hand, aerobic septic tanks have plenty of oxygen, allowing a snake to survive for a certain amount of time. However, the snake must escape before dying from exhaustion or starvation. If the thought of snakes in your toilet makes you uncomfortable, consider investing in a multi-flap, which prevents critters of all sizes from entering while allowing water and waste to exit. This article was originally published on March 13, 2019.
FAQ on Snakes in Toilets
What causes snakes to enter a building?
Snakes usually enter a building for either food or temperature. They may seek cool or damp areas during the day or warm places at night. They may also come inside while hunting for prey, such as mice and rats, and typically enter basements, attics, cellars, and crawl spaces.
Do snakes come out of toilets in Australia?
Yes, but it is rare. Sometimes snakes swim up through pipes or enter bathrooms through open windows or doors and coil up in a toilet bowl to cool down during hot, dry summers. However, this is not common in urban areas.
What are the chances of finding a snake in your toilet?
The chances of finding a snake in your toilet are very low. These incidents make newspaper headlines only because they are rare.
Can snakes come up drain pipes?
Yes, they can, but it is not common. Although snakes are good swimmers and can hold their breath for a long time, they usually do not infiltrate homes through pipes.
What should I do if I find a snake in my toilet?
First, close the toilet lid and take a deep breath. Flushing is not going to help. The snake will need to be removed and relocated, so it’s best to call an expert. If you rent, call your landlord immediately. If you own your home, call your local SPCA or a pest control company with a wildlife division.
More Information
Related Articles
- How Sewer and Septic Systems Work
- How Toilet Paper Works
- How Did Snakes Lose Their Legs?
Sources
- Ajobiewe, Samson. “Snake myths, hideouts, septic tank and water cistern as case study.” Vanguard. Dec. 7, 2021. (Jan. 7, 2022) https://www.vanguardngr.com/2021/12/snake-myths-hideouts-septic-tank-and-water-cistern-as-case-study/
- Brewer, Geoffrey. “Snakes Top List of Americans’ Fears.” Gallup, Inc. March 19, 2001. (Oct. 16, 2014). http://www.gallup.com/poll/1891/snakes-top-list-americans-fears.aspx
- Cost, Ben. “Horrifying video shows snake emerging from man’s toilet.” New York Post. Aug. 19, 2020. (Jan. 7, 2022) https://nypost.com/2020/08/19/horrifying-video-shows-snake-emerging-from-toilet/
- El-Ghobashy, Tamar. “Snake Pops Up in the Bronx.” The Wall Street Journal. Sept. 22, 2010. (Oct. 16, 2014) http://online.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052748703399404575506362658574270
- Inside Edition. “North Carolina Man Shocked to Find 5-Foot-Long Snake in His Toilet.” Sept. 5, 2018 (Jan. 7, 2022) https://animals.howstuffworks.com/editor/animal-facts/can-snakes-really-come-up-toilet-pipe.htm
- Walker, Sarah. “Can a Snake Live in a Septic Tank? (And How to Keep Them Away)” Home Ardent. (Jan. 7, 2022) https://homeardent.com/can-snake-live-in-septic-tank/
- Wickman, Forrest. “A Brief History of Toilet-Based Animal Attacks.” Slate. July 16, 2013. (Oct. 16, 2014) http://www.slate.com/blogs/browbeat/2013/07/16/snake_bites_man_s_penis_from_toilet_bowl_a_brief_history_of_when_rats_snakes.html
FAQ
1. Can snakes really come up a toilet pipe?
Yes, it is possible for snakes to come up a toilet pipe. Snakes are known for their ability to slither through small spaces, and if there is an opening in the sewer system, they can find their way into your toilet bowl. However, this is a rare occurrence and does not happen often.
2. What types of snakes are most likely to come up a toilet pipe?
Most commonly, it is the non-venomous species of snakes that crawl up toilet pipes. This includes species such as garter snakes, rat snakes, and corn snakes. However, venomous snakes such as copperheads and rattlesnakes can also make their way up a toilet pipe.
3. Do snakes come up a toilet pipe often?
No, snakes coming up a toilet pipe is a rare occurrence. It is more likely to happen in older homes with outdated plumbing systems or in homes with damaged sewer lines. In addition, snakes are more likely to enter a home through other openings such as cracks in the foundation or gaps around doors and windows.
4. How can I prevent snakes from coming up my toilet pipe?
To prevent snakes from entering your home through the toilet, you can install a backflow valve. This valve prevents any creatures or debris from entering your home through the sewer system. Additionally, you can keep your toilet lid closed when not in use and inspect your plumbing system regularly for any openings or damages that may attract snakes.
5. What should I do if I find a snake in my toilet?
If you find a snake in your toilet, do not panic. Close the lid and call a licensed pest control professional to safely remove the snake from your home. Do not attempt to remove the snake yourself as this can be dangerous and lead to injury.
6. Can snakes survive in the sewer system?
Yes, snakes can survive in the sewer system as it provides them with a dark and damp environment to live in. However, the conditions in the sewer system are not ideal for long-term survival, and snakes may eventually die due to lack of food and water.
7. Why do snakes come up toilet pipes?
Snakes come up toilet pipes in search of food or water. They may also enter a home through the sewer system if they are seeking shelter or a place to hibernate during the winter months.
8. Can a snake in the toilet bite me?
It is unlikely for a snake in the toilet to bite you as they are more scared of humans than we are of them. However, if you attempt to remove the snake yourself or startle it, it may bite out of self-defense. It is best to call a professional to remove the snake safely.
9. Are there any health risks associated with snakes in the toilet?
There are no serious health risks associated with snakes in the toilet. However, if the snake is venomous, it can cause serious injury or even death if not treated promptly. It is important to call a professional if you suspect a venomous snake in your home.
10. How can I snake-proof my home?
To snake-proof your home, you can seal any openings or gaps around doors and windows. Install weather stripping to prevent snakes from entering through gaps in the doors and windows. Additionally, keep your yard well-maintained and free of debris that may attract snakes. If you live in an area with a high population of snakes, consider installing a snake fence around your property.
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