The unseasonably warm weather this winter has brought out two nuisances. Snakes and ticks.

Both creatures have been seen recently in and around the Springfield area.

Check for ticks if you have been hiking in heavy woods or open fields. You can repel ticks with certain bug sprays when hiking in the outdoors.

Be watchful for snakes.  BTW did you know it is illegal to kill native snakes in Missouri? There are a couple of exceptions.

When can you kill a snake?  If a snake is getting into your  personal property such as eating eggs from your chicken coop OR you feel threatened for your safety for yourself or family. You can kill a venomous snake such as a Copperhead, Cottonmouth, or Rattlesnake that is near your home.

Snakes actually are great for getting rid of mice and rodents around your home.