Buying a first home is a milestone many people dream of for years. Amber Hall, a 42-year-old mother from Centennial, Colorado, had been searching for weeks when she finally found what seemed like the perfect property: a four-bedroom, two-bathroom house with a spacious backyard, ideal for her two children and two dogs. She imagined sunny afternoons spent playing outside and evenings unpacking in her new kitchen, unaware that the house held an unexpected surprise.
It wasn’t long after moving in that Amber noticed her dog behaving oddly. Instead of exploring as usual, the pet crouched low and moved unusually slowly, drawing Amber’s attention to the walls near the door leading from the garage to the yard. When she looked closer, she discovered something that would make any homeowner pause: snakes were slithering up the walls.
Unwanted Guests in the Walls
The serpents had coiled themselves inside the wall beside the doorway. Amber realized that the warmth she felt when touching the wall suggested more snakes hidden deeper inside. Initial reports indicated that these were likely garter snakes, but what startled her most was their size—remarkably large, larger than what most residents would expect for this common species.
Since the initial discovery, Amber found a total of ten snakes inside the house. The snakes’ presence may have gone unnoticed for years, possibly residing in the walls for up to two years. Amber’s experience illustrates a rare but not unheard-of phenomenon: wildlife adapting to human dwellings in ways that allow them to remain largely hidden.
Responding to the Discovery
Alarmed but determined, Amber hired a professional snake wrangler to remove the reptiles safely and humanely. The process so far has cost approximately $1,000. Although the immediate threat has been addressed, Amber still feels uneasy. She is hesitant to unpack her belongings or sleep without caution, fearing that the snakes might have nested near personal items.
Speculation among experts suggests that snakes sometimes inhabit walls and hidden spaces in search of warmth and safety. While this behavior is unusual for most homes, it aligns with natural snake tendencies to find sheltered areas where predators and environmental stressors are minimal. Such occurrences highlight the importance of wildlife awareness for homeowners, particularly in areas where snake species are common.
Wildlife Behavior and Human Interaction
While the situation might sound alarming, wildlife biologists note that snakes generally avoid human contact and are unlikely to pose direct harm if treated with care and respect. Garter snakes, for instance, are non-venomous and primarily feed on small insects, amphibians, and other invertebrates. The snakes’ presence in the walls may simply reflect their instinctive drive to find secure nesting spaces.
From a behavioral perspective, Amber’s dog played a crucial role in uncovering the hidden reptiles. Pets often detect changes in their environment that humans might overlook, whether through scent, sound, or subtle movements. In this case, the dog’s unusual behavior acted as a natural alert system, enabling Amber to investigate before the situation escalated.
Practical Advice for Homeowners
For homeowners encountering similar wildlife surprises, experts suggest a combination of caution and professional intervention. Steps include:
-
Observing pet behavior for unusual signs of alertness or distress.
-
Inspecting common wildlife entry points, such as vents, wall gaps, and doors.
-
Hiring trained professionals for removal and safe handling.
-
Considering structural inspections or repairs to prevent future intrusions.
While such encounters are rare, they serve as a reminder that even well-maintained homes can occasionally intersect with wildlife habitats. Awareness, preparation, and respect for animals help ensure safety for both humans and the creatures they share spaces with.
Reflections on Human Curiosity and Coexistence
Amber Hall’s story is a compelling example of the unexpected challenges of homeownership and the ways humans interact with the natural world. It underscores the value of observation—whether through pets, careful inspection, or professional advice—and reminds us that curiosity and vigilance are key tools for safe, harmonious living alongside wildlife.
While her experience was stressful, it also offers insight into the adaptability of animals and their capacity to live in close proximity to humans without being noticed. Amber’s encounter encourages reflection on how humans can coexist responsibly with nature, even in everyday settings like the home.
Conclusion
The tale of Amber Hall and the snakes in her walls blends surprise with lessons in awareness, safety, and curiosity. From a dog’s unusual behavior to the eventual discovery and removal of the reptiles, this story highlights the delicate balance between humans and wildlife. While homeowners may not anticipate hidden visitors, the situation illustrates the importance of observation, professional guidance, and respect for animals. Amber’s experience reminds us that even ordinary spaces, like a family home, can intersect with the fascinating, unexpected world of nature.
Sources
Newsner. “Mom of 2 moves into first home but dog starts to act strangely – then she looks closer at the walls.” en.newsner.com
KOAA News. “Colorado woman finds snakes in her walls after moving into first home.” koaa.com
National Wildlife Federation. “Living with Snakes: Tips for Homeowners.” nwf.org
Colorado Parks & Wildlife. “Garter Snake Species Profile.” cpw.state.co.us
