Help with water snakes

[newbie]

While working on my docks this weekend, I notice a small (12 inch) water snake creeping in and around the rocks at the shoreline. While I know that water snakes are harmless, explaining that to my six year old after a screaming episode will probably require me to sell the house. Before going through that, I was hoping that someone has a tried and true way to harmlessly encourage the snake to seek alternative living arrangements. Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks

Newbie

[Dave R]

You could try a fake Heron

[Mee-n-Mac]

I believe there just might be someone on Timber Island looking for a harmless water snake or two. Perhaps you and he (she) could arrange for transportation ? :laugh:

[SAMIAM]

Borrow a long handled smelt net and scoop the little bugger up when he goes in the water,Then it's a simple matter to drive down the lake a ways and relocate him.I had to do that once because my daughter was freaking over the snake even though it was nowhere near the beach......I kind of like him,myself.

[Rattlesnake Gal]

Sizing Up Snakes (http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Wildlife/Wildlife_Reports/wildlife_report_062304.htm#snakes)