Do Mothballs Keep Snakes Away?

What Are Mothballs?

Mothballs are small, solid balls of chemical pesticide used to kill and deter moths, carpet beetles, and other insects. Mothballs are generally made from either naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene and are available in various shapes and sizes.

Do Mothballs Keep Snakes Away?

Many people believe that using mothballs can be a successful way to repel snakes. While mothballs are good at deterring insects, they are not effective at keeping snakes away. The smell of mothballs can actually be attractive to some snakes, so it is not recommended to use mothballs as a snake repellent.

What Other Repellents Are Effective?

There are a number of natural and chemical repellents that are effective at keeping snakes away. Natural repellents include things like ammonia, garlic, and cayenne pepper. Chemical repellents include things like naphthalene, sulfur, and pyrethrin. Many of these repellents can be found in hardware stores, garden centers, and online.

How to Use Repellents?

When using a repellent, it is important to follow the instructions on the product label. For natural repellents, it is important to reapply the repellent every few weeks. Chemical repellents generally last longer, but it is best to follow the instructions on the label for how often to reapply.

Other Tips for Keeping Snakes Away

In addition to using repellents, there are other steps you can take to keep snakes away from your home. To start, it is important to make sure the area around your home is free of debris and potential hiding places, such as overgrown vegetation, woodpiles, and rock piles.

Making your yard less attractive to snakes

Making your yard less attractive to snakes is also important. This can be done by making sure there are no food sources, such as bird feeders or pet food, that may attract snakes. Additionally, it is important to create a barrier around the perimeter of your home to keep snakes out.

Keeping your home secure

It is also important to make sure your home is secure and free of potential entry points. Check your windows, doors, and any other potential entry points for cracks or holes, and seal these off. Additionally, it is important to check for any gaps or holes in the foundation of your home and seal these off as well.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while mothballs are not an effective way to keep snakes away, there are a number of natural and chemical repellents that can be used. Additionally, it is important to make sure the area around your home is free of debris and potential hiding spots, as well as making your yard less attractive to snakes. Finally, it is important to make sure your home is secure and free of potential entry points.