How to Keep Snakes Out of Your Yard

Why You Should Keep Snakes Out of Your Yard

Snakes are a nuisance in any yard, and can cause potential harm to people and pets. Though it is possible to coexist with snakes in your yard, it is prudent to take steps to keep them away, as some species are venomous and can be dangerous. It is not only important to keep an eye on humans, but also on pets, as they can be particularly vulnerable to snake bites if they come into contact with a venomous species.

Keeping Snakes Out of Your Yard

There are a few things you can do to keep snakes out of your yard, including:

1. Remove Attractants

Snakes are attracted to yards that offer food, shelter, and places to hide. To reduce the chance of snakes invading your yard, try to remove any attractants such as piles of debris, compost piles, and overgrown weeds. Additionally, keeping lids on trash cans and sealing any holes in fences can also help deter snakes.

2. Make the Yard Unpleasant for Snakes

There are several ways to make your yard less attractive to snakes. Try mulching your yard with cedar chips, as cedar has a strong odor that is unpleasant to snakes. You can also sprinkle cayenne pepper or crushed egg shells around the perimeter of your garden, or sprinkle sulfur around areas where snakes are known to pass through. The smell of these materials may drive them away.

3. Install a Fence

If you have a large property and want to keep snakes out, consider installing a fence around the perimeter of your yard. Be sure to use a fence that is at least 4 feet tall and has openings that are no larger than 1 inch. This will help prevent snakes from entering your yard.

4. Use Repellents

There are several commercial snake repellent products available on the market. These products contain ingredients like sulfur and naphthalene that are unpleasant to snakes and can help to keep them away. Be sure to read the instructions carefully and apply the product as directed.

5. Use a Snake Trap

If you want to actively remove snakes from your yard, you can use a snake trap. These traps use bait to attract snakes and can be placed around the perimeter of your yard. Make sure to check the trap regularly, as a snake left in the trap for an extended period of time can become stressed and die.

Conclusion

Snakes can be a nuisance in any yard, and it is important to take steps to keep them out. By removing attractants, making the yard unpleasant for snakes, installing a fence, using repellents, and using a snake trap, you can help keep snakes away from your yard.