Q: I appreciated your e-mail newsletter article about a kingsnake taking care of a copperhead. We have seen a number of copperheads on our property. Is there some way to encourage the kingsnake population?

A: Snakes of any sort are simple creatures: they hang out in spots where they can find food, shelter and mates. Having lots of frogs, mice and snakes on your property would encourage kingsnakes to come by but there is no way to specifically attract them. You could investigate buying one from an online pet store. Local snake expert Jim Rodgers (nearlynativenursery.com) can give you more information on snake identification and care.