Does Lavender Keep Snakes Away? The 118 Detailed Answer

Question: I have seen two snakes in my house since late November. After the first snake, I placed mothballs around the foundation of the house. Could I have caught her in the house? I wonder how to get rid of the snakes. At this point I will try everything! Can you spray for snakes?

Answer: Snakes in or around the house are not easy to control. Although most snakes around houses are not venomous, it is advisable to be cautious.

Snakes enter a building because they are attracted to dark, damp, cool areas or in search of food from small animals such as rats and mice. Snakes can be deterred from entering a home in a number of ways. Keeping vegetation short around the house can make the house less attractive to small animals and snakes.

Other methods include shielding all exterior vents, making sure doors and windows are tight, and caulking cracks and holes around the foundation. Check basement and crawl space access doors to ensure they are secure. Even small holes should be sealed.

During cold months, snakes often attempt to enter crawl spaces, basements, sheds, and basements. Once a snake is inside, it can be difficult to find. To lure snakes out, try leaving piles of damp burlap sacks or rags in areas where the snake has been seen. After a few days, use a large shovel to remove the entire pile of bags and (hopefully) the snake.

Since snakes are wild animals, you may need a professional wildlife hunter to help you. Many of our Orkin Pest Control branches have such individuals.

Call your local Orkin office to discuss the situation with them.

Your local Orkin office can also help you by sending a highly trained Orkin pest specialist to develop a bespoke, scientifically proven pest management strategy to get rid of one of the reasons snakes are in your home, the food.

related questions

Orkin used the above information to also answer the following questions asked by Orkin.com users:

Question: Hello, I was wondering if you offer snake removal services. If not you, who else?

scents and attractants

Snakes receive information about their environment through several biological mechanisms: Eyes – Visual acuity varies by species and is related to food sources. For example, snakes that feed on faster-moving prey like lizards tend to have better vision.

Abdomen – can pick up vibrations through the ground due to nearby movements.

Internal Organs – Snakes have the ability to sense changes in barometric pressure.

Facial Dimples – Many snakes have facial dimples that help the snake identify an object’s size and distance based on the object’s heat.

Tongue – the tongue is used to pick up airborne debris in close proximity to the snake. The forked tongue is stuck out of the mouth to collect airborne particles. The tongue prongs are then inserted into the palate of Jacobson’s organ. This organ is very sensitive and is close to the brain, which then interprets the particles for the snake. The tongue is the primary sensory organ for snakes. Some products contain an attractant or scent designed to attract snakes. This notion is illogical for several reasons: Snakes are carnivorous. Some feed on insects; some on fish; and most feed on rodents and other mammals. In order to present a “feed bait” there would have to be an odor of insects, fish or rodents present.

When a snake encounters a scent, the scent must be fresh to stimulate the snake’s feeding response or curiosity. Snakes are not like bloodhounds who can follow an aging scent trail. Scents that might stimulate a snake fade very quickly. Snakes are known to be “opportunistic feeders”. That is, they crawl around until they encounter a fresh smell or movement; i.e. the opportunity for potential food has presented itself. The Snake Guard snake trap does not use scent attractants; however, relies on the snake’s natural behavior of crawling against an object such as a wall or other vertical surface. Additionally, Snake Guard, LLC does not want to expose homeowners to the fresh smell of bugs, fish or rodents. An attractant or bait is not required for the Snake Guard snake trap to perform its intended job of catching unwanted snakes.

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If you live in an area where snakes are common, chances are you’ll stumble across one at some point. Snakes, like any other pest, are typically in search of three things: food, water, and shelter. Often the area around our homes offers all of these things that attract snakes. The likelihood of a snake on your property depends on several factors including location (north vs south), landscape (urban vs rural), a nearby water source (pond, lake, river), how well your lawn is landscaped and maintained and how readily a food supply is available. When dealing with snakes, it is important to identify the type of snake you are dealing with: venomous snakes should be left to a professional to eliminate, while non-venomous snakes can often be deterred using natural snake repellent methods . Here are 4 ways to keep snakes out of your yard:

1. Scare them off

One of the easiest ways to scare a snake out of your yard is to use your garden hose. Spray snake out of the hose in a steady stream until it slips off. Consider installing a perch for hawks, owls, and other natural snake predators to land on. Be sure to place it in an open area so that the birds can see your yard and the surrounding area well.

2. Smack them away

There are some natural products and household techniques you can use for snake prevention. Ammonia is a common snake repellant. Snakes hate the smell of ammonia and will not come near it. Soak rags in ammonia and place in unsealed plastic bags. Leave bags where you usually see snakes to keep them away. You can also use vinegar to keep snakes and other pests out of your pool. Pour white vinegar around the perimeter of the pool. Snakes can absorb the vinegar through their skin so they don’t slip over it once it’s poured on the ground. Snakes also try to avoid humans at all costs. Save hairs from your hairbrush and spread them around your property to keep snakes away.

3. Don’t invite them

Snakes come to your yard in search of food, water, and shelter. If you eliminate these three basic requirements, they will be much less likely to pay you a visit. Mow your lawn often and keep it short. Shorter grass means more contact with predators like hawks and coyotes, and also makes them much easier for you to spot. Avoid overwatering your lawn as this can attract snake food sources such as frogs, worms and snails. Keep trees, shrubs and branches off the sides of your house, the roof and the ground. Try to keep a 24 to 36 inch space clear under trees and shrubs as this reduces the likelihood of snakes using them for cover and makes them easier to spot. Put bird feeders out of the house or remove them altogether. Birds often leave seeds scattered underneath, which attracts rodents, which in turn attract snakes. Store bird seed and pet food in metal cans with tight-fitting lids. Make sure your woodpile is kept away from the house and elevated if possible. When creating your landscaping, try not to use mulch or large rocks as these create breeding and wintering habitats for snakes. Instead, try using smaller, tight-fitting rocks like gravel or river rock. Also try to avoid water features and koi ponds as the water can also attract snakes.

4. Lock them out

Snakes can be very stubborn pests and it can be difficult to keep them away. Examine the outside of your home carefully and seal any cracks or crevices you find on the house, sidewalk, and foundations. Consider installing a fence around your yard, garden or pool. The fence should be buried a few inches into the ground and constructed of rigid 1/4-inch mesh or heavy-duty sheeting. The fence should also have a bend at the top to prevent snakes from climbing up and over. There are some companies that even make wildlife specific fences.

The best way to prevent snakes is to take steps to keep them away in the first place. Handling snakes can be dangerous depending on the species of snake. If you have a snake problem, contact animal control or a professional wildlife control company who can help you safely capture, relocate, or remove the pesky snake from your home.

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Mice, rats and other problematic rodents

Snakes – scaly, legless creatures that crawl into your garden and sometimes even your home. While your first instinct is to run the other way, there are several benefits to keeping them close. Snakes keep rodent populations in check, with a single snake capable of eating 3 to 4 mice at a time. They also eat moles, voles, insects and even fish.

When do snakes come out?

Snakes are more common when temperatures average between 80 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit; usually in spring and summer. They are most active in the early morning and late afternoon as summer temperatures are often too hot for them to be outside during the hottest times of the day. The snakes’ activity picks up again in late summer and early fall before they go into hibernation or hibernation. Brumation is more common in southern states where the climate is warmer and snow is less likely. Snakes don’t actually sleep in brumation, instead their bodies are adjusting to the lower temperatures, slowing their metabolism and making them less active. On warm winter days, buzzing snakes sometimes come out to bask in the sun, often surprising unsuspecting people with their presence.

While calling a professional pest control company is a guaranteed and surefire way to tackle a snake problem, there are also some home remedies you can try to repel snakes. Home remedies to keep snakes away offer several benefits, including:

Availability: Most home remedies for keeping snakes away contain ingredients or methods that are readily available and easy to obtain. The guidelines for their use are also easily found on the internet.

Most home remedies for keeping snakes away contain ingredients or methods that are readily available and easy to obtain. The guidelines for their use are also easily found on the internet. Affordability: Most home remedies to keep snakes away are significantly cheaper compared to the cost of professional products and services on the market.

Most home remedies to keep snakes away are significantly cheaper compared to the cost of professional products and services on the market. Ease of Use: Most home remedies for keeping snakes away are easy to make or implement.

Most home remedies for keeping snakes away are easy to make or implement. Safety: Most home remedies to keep snakes away are non-toxic to humans and pets compared to professional products on the market.

Home remedies to keep snakes away:

Clear out food supplies

Snakes are often found in areas where rodents are present as this is one of their main food sources. Snakes have also been known to eat frogs, birds, moles, voles, insects and even fish. If you have a problem with any of these animals, consider getting rid of that pest problem first. Once the food source has been eliminated, snakes move on in search of another food source.

Eliminate hideouts

Snakes prefer dark, damp places and have been known to live and hide in cracks, crevices, and holes. Eliminating these hiding spots can help deter snakes from settling on your property. Examine the exterior of your home and property carefully and repair any cracks or holes you find. Repair damaged gutters, pipes and ventilation ducts. Repair or replace damaged screens on windows and doors. Snakes also hide in woodpiles and compost heaps. If possible, store firewood in closed, lockable wooden boxes. Try to get rid of any piles of wood chip mulch, straw mulch, leaves, etc. that may be building up on your property.

Change your landscaping

If your yard or garden is prone to snakes, consider making changes that will deter these pests from coming in. Garden regularly to remove snake attractants such as debris, holes, and overgrowth. Keep the grass short to eliminate hiding spots for snakes. Consider installing a snake-proof fence made of steel mesh, plastic sheeting, or nets. If you are installing a fence, make sure it is flush with the ground, angled outward, and that it is at least 3 feet high and 4 feet deep. You can also use materials that make it difficult for snakes to slide across, such as holly leaves, pine cones, egg shells, and gravel. You can also consider planting snake-repellent plants that will provide a natural deterrent. Some common examples are marigolds, lemongrass, and wormwood.

Use natural predators

Foxes and raccoons are common predators of snakes. Guinea fowl, turkeys, pigs and cats also help keep snakes away. If foxes are native to your area, fox urine is a very good natural snake repellent if you spread it around your property.

smoke them out

Snakes have a keen sense of smell and are extremely sensitive to smells and fumes. One smell they particularly dislike is smoke. One remedy is to dig out a fireplace and let it smoke for several days – for best results, cover the embers with moss and leaves.

Use natural products

There are several natural products that work well as snake repellents. Some of the more common are:

Naphthalene: Naphthalene is a common ingredient found in many commercial snake repellent products. It is one of the most common snake repellents. If you don’t want to spend money on a commercial product, naphthalene is also the main ingredient in mothballs. The smell of naphthalene irritates snakes without harming them. Place mothballs in holes, cracks, crevices, or other areas around your property where snakes may be a problem. One caveat to using mothballs is that they can be poisonous and deadly to children or pets if ingested. So be careful or avoid using it if you have pets or children in your house.

Naphthalene is a common ingredient found in many commercial snake repellent products. It is one of the most common snake repellents. If you don’t want to spend money on a commercial product, naphthalene is also the main ingredient in mothballs. The smell of naphthalene irritates snakes without harming them. Place mothballs in holes, cracks, crevices, or other areas around your property where snakes may be a problem. One caveat to using mothballs is that they can be poisonous and deadly to children or pets if ingested. So be careful or avoid using it if you have pets or children in your house. Sulfur: Powdered sulfur is a great option for repelling snakes. Place powdered sulfur around your house and property and once snakes slither across it, it irritates their skin so they don’t return. Sulfur gives off a strong odor, so consider wearing a mask that covers your nose and mouth when applying.

Powdered sulfur is a great option for repelling snakes. Place powdered sulfur around your house and property and once snakes slither across it, it irritates their skin so they don’t return. Sulfur gives off a strong odor, so consider wearing a mask that covers your nose and mouth when applying. Clove and Cinnamon Oil: Clove and cinnamon oil are effective snake repellents. These should be mixed in a spray bottle and sprayed directly onto snakes for maximum effect. Be careful as snakes often run in the opposite direction of the spray. This mixture can also be used indoors as a fumigant in a diffuser

Clove and cinnamon oil are effective snake repellents. These should be mixed in a spray bottle and sprayed directly onto snakes for maximum effect. Be careful as snakes often run in the opposite direction of the spray. This mixture can also be used indoors as a fumigant in a diffuser, as well as Garlic and Onions: The sulfonic acid in garlic and onions (the same chemical that makes us cry when we chop onions) repels snakes. Mix these with rock salt and sprinkle around your home and garden for potency. You can also add garlic to any essential oil and use it to fumigate rafters, basements, and other hard-to-reach places.

The sulfonic acid in garlic and onions (the same chemical that makes us cry when we chop onions) repels snakes. Mix these with rock salt and sprinkle around your home and garden for potency. You can also add garlic to any essential oil and use it to fumigate rafters, basements, and other hard-to-reach places. Ammonia: Snakes don’t like the smell of ammonia, so one option is to spray it on the affected areas. Another option is to soak a rug in ammonia and place it in an unsealed bag near areas inhabited by snakes to deter them.

Snakes don’t like the smell of ammonia, so one option is to spray it around the affected areas. Another option is to soak a rug in ammonia and place it in an unsealed bag near areas inhabited by snakes to deter them. Vinegar: Vinegar is effective at repelling snakes near bodies of water, including swimming pools. Pour white vinegar around the perimeter of any body of water for a natural snake repellent.

Vinegar is effective at repelling snakes near bodies of water, including swimming pools. Pour white vinegar around the perimeter of any body of water for a natural snake repellent. Lime: Make a mixture of snake repellent lime and paprika or peppermint and water around your home or property. Snakes don’t like the smell of the mixture, and the fumes also make their skin itchy.

If home remedies to keep snakes away don’t work, consider calling a wildlife control company to remove snakes, snake prevention recommendations, and possibly other extermination services like rodent control that could be contributing to the problem.

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Snakes are beautiful and sensitive creatures. Many people fear and respect them, but most of all they fear us. They are an integral part of the natural world and play an important role in keeping rodent populations in check. While useful, they can frighten some of us and are best left in their natural habitat. Finding a snake lurking in your home would be a scary prospect, especially if you have pets or children.

Some people think mothballs can keep snakes at bay, but that’s not true. There are a few natural remedies that can keep our slithering friends away. It’s also important not to panic and injure the snake in the process of getting rid of it. A frightened snake can cause significant damage. So natural repellents work well because they work with the snake’s sense of smell. They have a heightened sense of smell, and these natural repellents can keep them out of your home. Here are some natural snake repellants that can keep your area snake-free.

1. Indian Lemongrass

A hardy and powerful herb, lemongrass can keep snakes, mosquitoes, and ticks away. Planting lemongrass around the perimeter of your property will help. They will thrive in the summer months. They don’t grow well in extreme temperatures, so keeping them indoors is better during the harsh winter months. Not only do they keep snakes away, but they also smell the air with a lemony scent. The plant is low-maintenance and easy to care for.

2. Garlic and onions

Garlic and onions are considered the most effective ways to keep reptiles away and are commonly used to keep snakes away. They contain a component known as a sulfonic acid. This is the same chemical that irritates your tear ducts when you chop onions. Garlic smell is really strong. Make a spray with garlic and water and use it to mist the areas that need snakes and insects to repel. The spray can be prepared by crushing about 10 cloves of garlic or mixing garlic oil with water and sealing in a spray bottle. Keeping reptiles away requires large amounts of spray which should be reapplied every few weeks.

3. Snake plant or mother-in-law’s tongue

Mother-in-law’s tongue is also called snake plant. It gets its whimsical name from the fact that it’s spicy. It belongs to the succulent family. The plant does not have a specific odor but is still very effective in keeping snakes away. Snakes have poor eyesight and the plant looks dangerous to them, so they stay away from it. This plant is low maintenance, easy to grow and attractive. They grow well indoors and outdoors.

4. Clove and Cinnamon Oil

Two powerful essential oils that can keep snakes away are clove and cinnamon. The oils can be mixed together and sprayed on a snake if you spot one. However, it would be wise to clear the area while spraying as snakes can become confused and scoot in all directions to escape the spray. The 2 ingredients should be mixed in equal parts and placed in a spray bottle. This can be used on any surface in your home. Make sure to reapply it every few weeks to keep snakes at bay.

5. Marigold

Marigold is a popular remedy to keep insects and reptiles away, and is often used as a mosquito repellent. Seems to work on snakes too. The smell of the marigold keeps the reptiles and critters away. They are easy to plant and require regular sun and moist soil. It is best to plant them at the property line.

There are many other ways to keep snakes away, but they are harmful to the reptile. Instead, try these natural and humane ways to keep your property away. Some of the other things you can try are making sure the food source is eliminated and getting rid of places where they can hide. If you have a serious infestation, then removing debris and trimming the grass can deter snakes from entering your property.

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Snake control in the fall is important

Do snakes come out in the fall?

Snake activity increases as temperatures drop in late summer and early fall before they enter hibernation, which can be as early as September or as late as December. On warm days, snakes in Brumation sometimes come out of their burrows to bask in the sun.

What time of day are snakes most active?

Snakes are most active in the early morning on spring and summer days when the sun is warming the earth. Snakes come for the evening and sleep at night.

At what temperature do snakes become inactive?

Generally, rattlesnakes emerge from hibernation in March or April or when average daily temperatures reach and remain around 60 degrees Fahrenheit and higher. In the warmer southern states, snakes often do not hibernate, but rather hum.

What is the coldest temperature a snake can endure?

Snakes usually stay out of cold climates. Since the coldest temperature at which a snake can thrive is around 18°C, snakes typically live in the warmer temperate or tropical zones.

With the weather finally getting cooler, you might think the venomous copperhead snakes would be well on their way to hibernation. But that’s just not true. In fact, with the warmer weather we’ve experienced and the gargantuan rainfall from hurricanes, they’re just as active as ever. What makes it worse is that with all the fall colors of orange, red and brown, the leaves start to turn and fall, making excellent camouflage for snakes.

As a congregation, we were all in disbelief when we heard that a local real estate agent who was waiting to have dinner with her family at a local restaurant in Fredericksburg, Virginia was bitten by a small copperhead right outside her door! This is something nobody wants to let happen. If you look at the landscaping of the restaurant you will see that they had dense shrubbery which is a great hiding place for snakes. Not only are Copperheads extremely difficult to see, but they are also highly venomous. And when bitten by these aggressive snakes, it is very painful. Copperheads can bite multiple times, releasing lethal amounts of toxins into the skin. And if you stepped on a snake, it will be very difficult to remove it, since it will be angry and will have buried its teeth quite deeply.

What’s the first thing you do when you think you’ve been bitten by a poisonous snake? First, try to identify the species of snake. This is critical to your treatment and health. You must remember that even non-venomous snakes that bite and pierce the skin can cause an allergic reaction and may require medical attention. You may need a beta blocker to prevent itching or a steroid to reduce swelling and inflammation.

So watch your step and wear proper walking shoes when walking through the forest. Another step you can take is to rake up foliage around your home. Keep your yard as tidy as possible, free of debris and piles of wood, and well away from the home itself. And if you do encounter a snake, please remain calm, do your best to identify the snake, and call Summit Environmental Solutions at 703-520-5868 and we’ll come out and assess the situation. Our experts are certified for these types of encounters and know what to do for you. We protect your family and pets.

Brumation is probably not a word you hear often in connection with your exotic pet, or indeed ever, unless you are a herp expert. You may not know that some reptiles hibernate. It’s similar to the hibernation phase of some mammals, except when your lizard, snake, or turtle is doing it, it’s called brumation. If you are a new exotic pet owner, no worries. We’ve put together this short guide with everything you would want to know about reptile brumation.

Which reptiles brumate?

First off, it is important to know if the reptile you own should be entering a breeding season. Animals from temperate climates likely evolved to hibernate for long periods during the colder months. But if you own a snake or lizard from tropical climates, like a ball python or iguana, it’s a bad sign if it appears to be trying to hibernate.

Tropical reptiles should not enter a brumation state. So if it looks like this, they probably have a health issue that needs to be looked at by an exotics vet.

Herpes that are prone to buzzing include:

bearded dragons

Russian tortoise

leopard geckos

Crested Geckos

corn snakes

milk snakes

garter snakes

Do you own a pet reptile?

How to prepare your herp for brumation

The first thing to know about preparing a reptile for the hum is to observe its cues. Unless your pet is showing signs of wanting to go into a less active state, you don’t really need to do anything to artificially induce such a state. Captive snakes, lizards, or tortoises can enter a pseudo-brumation state, in which they eat much less and are less active, but do not brumatize fully.

Even in captivity, reptiles that brumate tend to do so in the colder months. So when the weather turns chilly and you notice refusal to eat and lots of sleep, that’s the cue for your pet. Then follow these steps.

Prepare the herpes digestive system

Maintain your normal heat and light settings for about 14 days after your pet’s last meal. This gives him time to digest and clean his intestines. Otherwise, the food will rot and potentially kill your reptile as digestion stops while it’s buzzing. Once the colon is cleansed, remove the heat and lighting.

Acclimate the reptile to cooler temperatures

Keep the heat and light off in your reptile’s habitat for 1 week. This gives the animal time to get used to a cooler temperature. Your herp should be kept at about room temperature at this point. There is no need to make the room colder. Do not feed your exotic pet during this time.

Move your reptile to a cooler area

Once the acclimatization period is over, it’s time to move your pet to their location. This should be a less-used room of the house, like a basement or laundry room, with cooler temperatures between 50 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit. Don’t bring your pet into an area that gets colder than 50 degrees. It’s okay if the room temperature fluctuates a bit.

You also want to get the humidity right in the brumation area. The animal needs moisture in the air to keep it from becoming dehydrated, but it should not be kept in a humid area. Again, do not feed anything, but have a bowl of water ready. Your pet may wake up to drink and return to its brumation state.

As a safety measure, weigh your exotic pet every few weeks during brumation. If it loses weight in this state, it means it has lost water. You should soak it in room temperature water for 10 to 15 minutes and then put it back to the place where it burned. You’ll know the buzzing is over when your pet is actively moving around their enclosure again.

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If your snake escapes from its enclosure, immediately make sure no windows or doors are open to the outside. If none were open and your house had absolutely no holes in your walls or floors, your snake is indoors and it could be hiding almost anywhere. Start with a thorough search in the room you are keeping your snake in, and then radiate from there throughout the rest of the home. Proceed with tricks and traps as needed. Think like a snake, not a human: look for cozy, dark places.

Step 1

Look behind your snake’s habitat and then behind and under any furniture. Snakes are likely to lodge behind or under furniture or objects. Look along all walls and in and under any baseboard heating elements. Snakes are unlikely to go into toilets, but they may very well end up behind them or even their tanks. Hand mirrors and flashlights are useful tools. Don’t forget to pull aside curtains and blinds.

step 2

Closely inspect upholstered furniture for holes in the fabric where your snake may have slipped. Also look between and under pillows. Inspect bookshelves and other shelving, including behind items on the shelves.

step 3

Pay attention to all closets. Get on the floor and look at the base of the cabinets. Snakes can open closet doors, so you need to look inside too – but don’t expect your snake to close the door behind it. Check in, under and behind all fixtures and pipes. Look for holes your snake may have crawled through. You can get into much smaller spaces than you might expect. Make a mental or written note of these areas so you can fill in the holes after your quest, just in case you escape later.

step 4

Examine anything that is hollow and has an opening. This includes tissue boxes, bins, bags, shoes, trash cans, baskets, certain electrical devices, and anything else that could potentially serve as a hiding place.

step 5

Set “alerts” to sound along walls at night if your search hasn’t found your missing pet snake. Crumpled plastic grocery bags work well, but anything you can think of will make noise as your snake glides over it. Turn off all lights, turn off anything that makes noise, and sit in a central spot with a flashlight in hand. Have someone do the same thing in as many rooms as possible. Wait and listen carefully. If you hear a bag being disturbed, shine the flashlight on the area and point it at your snake when you see it. Move smoothly and quickly.

step 6

Facilitate the pursuit by sprinkling flour over all doorsteps and in various places in rooms. Leave them overnight. In the morning, look for whirled flour, which should show your snake’s tracks. Even if the flour trails don’t lead you to the exact spot where your snake is hiding, it should make tracking easier and greatly narrow down your search.

step 7

Your chances of encountering a snake in your yard will vary depending on where you live, but generally, the odd snake isn’t a problem. Very few North American snake species are venomous and most avoid humans altogether, preferring instead to focus on their prey (which often includes rodents and other vermin species).

However, if you want to reduce the number of snakes in your home, salt is not the way to go. Salt does not repel snakes, and most other natural snake repellents have also proven ineffective. Chemical snake repellents are available, but these are rarely a wise choice as they tend to poison anything they come in contact with (including native wildlife and pets).

Luckily, the key to a snake-free home doesn’t lie in useless or potentially harmful repellents, but in simple, preventative pest control measures.

Why keep snakes away?

Snakes are one of the most universally disliked members of the animal kingdom. Their low social rank likely stems from their role in driving our biblical ancestors out of Eden, but there are many other reasons for disliking these legless reptiles.

Their squirming, gliding movements, cool/scary way they open their jaws to eat, and their occasional tendency to bite inspire fear and disgust in many people, but are they really dangerous?

Did you know? The truth is that snakes are mostly pretty harmless. These introverted animals tend to shy away from human company, only biting humans when they feel threatened.

In fact, having the odd snake on your property can be beneficial, as many will eat mice, insects, and other pests that might otherwise invade your home. Most snake species native to North America are nonvenomous and pose no particular threat to humans or animals.

However, not all snakes are safe around and some (like the rattlesnake) can deliver a painful and (though rarely) fatal bite. If you live in a region where venomous snakes are common, it’s best to keep them off your property to protect yourself from mishaps — but is salt really the way to go?

Does salt repel snakes?

Salt does not repel snakes. They are not snails and therefore do not dissolve on contact with sodium chloride. Snakes won’t bother to avoid it either, as they are not afraid of it. Simply put, salt has no effect on snakes.

How did the salt vs. snake rumor come about?

The notion that snakes are afraid of salt is an old wives’ tale that’s likely still going around simply because it predates the internet.

In a pre-Google era, such methods were hard to refute, and truth be told, snakes (and most other animals) will likely turn their tails if you hurl a handful of rock salt in their faces.

However, lining the borders of your country with salt is not an effective way to keep snakes away.

Are there other natural remedies that are effective against snakes?

Several other natural anti-snake remedies have been tried and tested, although few plant oils and extracts repel reptiles.

These include:

garlic

neem

tobacco

Jaw

citronella

thyme

Can mothballs repel snakes?

Mothballs are another popular home remedy for repelling snakes that also don’t work.

Apparently, the idea that mothballs repel snakes was debunked decades ago. Also, mothballs contain chemicals that can harm your pets and other (non-reptilian) wildlife.

Do chemical snake repellents work?

Chemical repellents for snakes exist but are not generally recommended. These products (often) contain substances that are potentially harmful to humans, pets and the environment and may not be suitable for home use.

If you decide to use a chemical snake repellent, always follow the label directions carefully.

How to keep snakes away

Salt and other snake repellents may not be of much help, but that doesn’t mean you have to put up with (living in fear). The following preventative control measures can help keep snakes (and other pests) out of your home:

Seal entry points

Examine the exterior of your home carefully and get to work blocking all possible entry points. Pay particular attention to:

Gaps around doors and window frames

air vents

drains

Entry points into crawl spaces

Remove their food sources

Snakes are predators and many species eat rodents. This might seem like a bonus, but the more rats and mice you have, the more snakes will want to hang out in your house. Setting traps can effectively reduce your rodent population and thus the snakes’ food sources, forcing them to move to richer hunting grounds.

Clean up your garden

Like many pest species, snakes like to stay in sheltered spots. You can make snakes less likely to take shelter in your yard by removing “shelters,” which can include:

pile of firewood

Stacks of boxes or other materials for recycling

Overgrown shrubs

tall grasses

compost heap

pile of leaves (and other garden debris)

Snake-proof your perimeters

If you want to keep snakes completely off your property, you may consider installing a snake-proof fence around the perimeter of your yard.

Store pet food indoors

If you have a dog or cat, feed them indoors and store their food safely. Leftover food lying around in your yard is a magnet for insects and rodents, which in turn attract snakes.

Conclusion

Snakes are not popular house guests and there are dozens of home remedies to keep them away. Unfortunately, many natural solutions are ineffective against the reptiles, and salt is a prime example.

Salt doesn’t keep snakes away, other herbal solutions may be weak, and chemical repellents are tantamount to an environmental hate crime. The best way to keep snakes off your property is to use preventative pest control measures. This method aims to make your home less attractive to snakes and usually involves sealing their entry points while reducing or removing sources of food and shelter.

Snakes – scaly, legless creatures that crawl into your garden and sometimes even your home. While your first instinct is to run the other way, there are several benefits to keeping them close. Snakes keep rodent populations in check, with a single snake capable of eating 3 to 4 mice at a time. They also eat moles, voles, insects and even fish.

When do snakes come out?

Snakes are more common when temperatures average between 80 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit; usually in spring and summer. They are most active in the early morning and late afternoon as summer temperatures are often too hot for them to be outside during the hottest times of the day. The snakes’ activity picks up again in late summer and early fall before they go into hibernation or hibernation. Brumation is more common in southern states where the climate is warmer and snow is less likely. Snakes don’t actually sleep in brumation, instead their bodies are adjusting to the lower temperatures, slowing their metabolism and making them less active. On warm winter days, buzzing snakes sometimes come out to bask in the sun, often surprising unsuspecting people with their presence.

While calling a professional pest control company is a guaranteed and surefire way to tackle a snake problem, there are also some home remedies you can try to repel snakes. Home remedies to keep snakes away offer several benefits, including:

Availability: Most home remedies for keeping snakes away contain ingredients or methods that are readily available and easy to obtain. The guidelines for their use are also easily found on the internet.

Most home remedies for keeping snakes away contain ingredients or methods that are readily available and easy to obtain. The guidelines for their use are also easily found on the internet. Affordability: Most home remedies to keep snakes away are significantly cheaper compared to the cost of professional products and services on the market.

Most home remedies to keep snakes away are significantly cheaper compared to the cost of professional products and services on the market. Ease of Use: Most home remedies for keeping snakes away are easy to make or implement.

Most home remedies for keeping snakes away are easy to make or implement. Safety: Most home remedies to keep snakes away are non-toxic to humans and pets compared to professional products on the market.

Home remedies to keep snakes away:

Clear out food supplies

Snakes are often found in areas where rodents are present as this is one of their main food sources. Snakes have also been known to eat frogs, birds, moles, voles, insects and even fish. If you have a problem with any of these animals, consider getting rid of that pest problem first. Once the food source has been eliminated, snakes move on in search of another food source.

Eliminate hideouts

Snakes prefer dark, damp places and have been known to live and hide in cracks, crevices, and holes. Eliminating these hiding spots can help deter snakes from settling on your property. Examine the exterior of your home and property carefully and repair any cracks or holes you find. Repair damaged gutters, pipes and ventilation ducts. Repair or replace damaged screens on windows and doors. Snakes also hide in woodpiles and compost heaps. If possible, store firewood in closed, lockable wooden boxes. Try to get rid of any piles of wood chip mulch, straw mulch, leaves, etc. that may be building up on your property.

Change your landscaping

If your yard or garden is prone to snakes, consider making changes that will deter these pests from coming in. Garden regularly to remove snake attractants such as debris, holes, and overgrowth. Keep the grass short to eliminate hiding spots for snakes. Consider installing a snake-proof fence made of steel mesh, plastic sheeting, or nets. If you are installing a fence, make sure it is flush with the ground, angled outward, and that it is at least 3 feet high and 4 feet deep. You can also use materials that make it difficult for snakes to slide across, such as holly leaves, pine cones, egg shells, and gravel. You can also consider planting snake-repellent plants that will provide a natural deterrent. Some common examples are marigolds, lemongrass, and wormwood.

Use natural predators

Foxes and raccoons are common predators of snakes. Guinea fowl, turkeys, pigs and cats also help keep snakes away. If foxes are native to your area, fox urine is a very good natural snake repellent if you spread it around your property.

smoke them out

Snakes have a keen sense of smell and are extremely sensitive to smells and fumes. One smell they particularly dislike is smoke. One remedy is to dig out a fireplace and let it smoke for several days – for best results, cover the embers with moss and leaves.

Use natural products

There are several natural products that work well as snake repellents. Some of the more common are:

Naphthalene: Naphthalene is a common ingredient found in many commercial snake repellent products. It is one of the most common snake repellents. If you don’t want to spend money on a commercial product, naphthalene is also the main ingredient in mothballs. The smell of naphthalene irritates snakes without harming them. Place mothballs in holes, cracks, crevices, or other areas around your property where snakes may be a problem. One caveat to using mothballs is that they can be poisonous and deadly to children or pets if ingested. So be careful or avoid using it if you have pets or children in your house.

Naphthalene is a common ingredient found in many commercial snake repellent products. It is one of the most common snake repellents. If you don’t want to spend money on a commercial product, naphthalene is also the main ingredient in mothballs. The smell of naphthalene irritates snakes without harming them. Place mothballs in holes, cracks, crevices, or other areas around your property where snakes may be a problem. One caveat to using mothballs is that they can be poisonous and deadly to children or pets if ingested. So be careful or avoid using it if you have pets or children in your house. Sulfur: Powdered sulfur is a great option for repelling snakes. Place powdered sulfur around your house and property and once snakes slither across it, it irritates their skin so they don’t return. Sulfur gives off a strong odor, so consider wearing a mask that covers your nose and mouth when applying.

Powdered sulfur is a great option for repelling snakes. Place powdered sulfur around your house and property and once snakes slither across it, it irritates their skin so they don’t return. Sulfur gives off a strong odor, so consider wearing a mask that covers your nose and mouth when applying. Clove and Cinnamon Oil: Clove and cinnamon oil are effective snake repellents. These should be mixed in a spray bottle and sprayed directly onto snakes for maximum effect. Be careful as snakes often run in the opposite direction of the spray. This mixture can also be used indoors as a fumigant in a diffuser

Clove and cinnamon oil are effective snake repellents. These should be mixed in a spray bottle and sprayed directly onto snakes for maximum effect. Be careful as snakes often run in the opposite direction of the spray. This mixture can also be used indoors as a fumigant in a diffuser, as well as Garlic and Onions: The sulfonic acid in garlic and onions (the same chemical that makes us cry when we chop onions) repels snakes. Mix these with rock salt and sprinkle around your home and garden for potency. You can also add garlic to any essential oil and use it to fumigate rafters, basements, and other hard-to-reach places.

The sulfonic acid in garlic and onions (the same chemical that makes us cry when we chop onions) repels snakes. Mix these with rock salt and sprinkle around your home and garden for potency. You can also add garlic to any essential oil and use it to fumigate rafters, basements, and other hard-to-reach places. Ammonia: Snakes don’t like the smell of ammonia, so one option is to spray it on the affected areas. Another option is to soak a rug in ammonia and place it in an unsealed bag near areas inhabited by snakes to deter them.

Snakes don’t like the smell of ammonia, so one option is to spray it around the affected areas. Another option is to soak a rug in ammonia and place it in an unsealed bag near areas inhabited by snakes to deter them. Vinegar: Vinegar is effective at repelling snakes near bodies of water, including swimming pools. Pour white vinegar around the perimeter of any body of water for a natural snake repellent.

Vinegar is effective at repelling snakes near bodies of water, including swimming pools. Pour white vinegar around the perimeter of any body of water for a natural snake repellent. Lime: Make a mixture of snake repellent lime and paprika or peppermint and water around your home or property. Snakes don’t like the smell of the mixture, and the fumes also make their skin itchy.

If home remedies to keep snakes away don’t work, consider calling a wildlife control company to remove snakes, snake prevention recommendations, and possibly other extermination services like rodent control that could be contributing to the problem.

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Snakes in and around the house

Snakes are generally shy animals that don’t want to be around people. They can be useful because they eat mice, snails, maggots, insects and other pests, and they can be food for other wildlife such as hawks. Although most snake species in North America are harmless, there are some venomous species that can pose a risk to humans and pets. The National Pesticide Information Center has put together the following resources to help you find ways to keep snakes away without unnecessarily endangering you, your family, pets, or the environment.

Control Tips:

If you or someone else is bitten by a snake that you think may be venomous, contact your poison control center (1-800-222-1222) or doctor as soon as possible. It may not be necessary to identify the snake.

It may not be necessary to identify the snake. If your pet has been bitten and is experiencing pain, redness, swelling, or bruising, take them to your veterinarian immediately. If your pet shows none of these signs, you should contact your veterinarian or the National Animal Poison Control Center at 1-800-426-4435 for advice.

Chemical snake repellants are available, but they can pose risks to people, pets, or the environment if not used properly. Always make sure to read and follow all label directions if you decide to use any of these products.

Only use repellents that specifically state on the label that they are snake repellents and use only as directed on the label.

Snakes invade areas inhabited by humans in search of food and shelter. The easiest thing you can do is to make your house and garden less attractive to them.

Prevent snake problems by removing their food sources such as rodents. Do not leave pet food outside and store pet food in tight containers.

Snakes like cool, damp places to hide. Seal entry points into your crawlspace or basement that are larger than ¼ inch in diameter.

Make sure door sweeps and window grilles are tight. Cover vents and drains leading into your home with galvanized screen.

Snakes also find shelter under scrap metal, piles of wood, trash, and other debris. Keep your garden area clear of potential hiding spots, including tall grass and weeds, that can attract prey for snakes.

You may also consider building a snake-proof fence around your home or yard if other methods fail to control the snakes.

If you have a snake in the house, there are mechanical traps and sticky traps that you can use to catch it. For help identifying or removing a snake, try calling your local cooperative branch office, animal control officer (check your local phone book), or the state wildlife agency.

If you have questions about snake control or any other pesticide-related topic, please call NPIC at 1-800-858-7378 (8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. PST) or email npic @ace.orst.edu.

snake identification

Because some snakes can be dangerous, do not touch a snake unless you are absolutely sure what species it is. If you don’t know what type of snake you are dealing with, treat the snake as if it were venomous. Don’t touch it and keep children and pets away. Snakes are most likely to bite when molested. If possible, consider taking a photo of the snake for easier identification. There are many resources to help you identify a snake, including your local cooperative office and the state wildlife agency. You can also look up the snake in a field guide or search the internet for information about snakes in your area. Here are some examples of online resources for snake identification:

Snakes snake around yards and hide in dark, damp areas. Snakes can scare people. How do you keep snakes out of your garden? And should you?

A garter snake hides in the undergrowth. | Aislin Sarnacki

From Harry Potter to Indiana Jones, snakes are among the most maligned species in popular culture. The roots of our aversion to the crawling creatures might even be biblical—after all, it was a serpent that ruined paradise for the first man and woman.

But snakes don’t deserve their sinful reputation. Sure, some species are venomous and snakes can eat eggs from your chicken coop, but there are many benefits to having snakes on your property.

“Their food is animals that can cause property damage,” says Melissa Amarello, co-founder of Advocates for Snake Preservation, a New Mexico-based nonprofit that educates people about living with snakes.

Pack rats, insects, squirrels and even venomous snakes (if they live near you) are some of the snake prey you might find in your yard. Unlike the rodents they feed on, snakes are not known to transmit disease to humans. When there is a snake on your land, it is usually a sign that you are doing something right and your local ecosystem is healthy and thriving.

What to do if you see a snake

The short answer: don’t try to move or kill it. Most likely, the snake is not poisonous. Keep your distance and let him glide happily on his way. Snakes only attack when provoked.

Although there are some physiological differences between most venomous snakes and their non-venomous counterparts, Amarello recommends not attempting to identify amateur snakes. “It can be really difficult to tell the difference,” says Amarello. “They can all be appreciated from a safe distance.”

If the snake is inside your house or on your porch, use a long-handled broom or rake to gently lure it outside. If that’s not possible, try using boards or boxes to confine the snake in a room or corner. Then call a professional caregiver — either the fire department, animal control, or a private service that specializes in snake removal, depending on where you live — who will relocate your unwanted reptile guest.

But there is a downside to the snake removal quick fix. “I think that gives people a false sense of security,” says Amarello. “There’s a reason the first snake showed up. If that reason is not addressed, another will likely emerge.”

What keeps snakes away?

If you can’t overcome your ophidiophobia, the best way to keep snakes out of your yard is to deprive them of their food sources and shelter. Snakes like dark, damp areas with lots of cover, like piles of wood, uncut lawns with tall grass, and overgrown shrubbery. Clear the yard of rock piles or debris, mow grass frequently, and keep building materials and piles of firewood slightly off the ground. You can even keep rock piles, shrubbery, or thick vegetation at the edge of your property to distract snakes seeking shelter.

Also, take additional measures to control rodent and insect populations, such as: B. keeping pet food tightly sealed, rodent protection for your chicken coops and never leaving litter outside overnight unless they are tightly sealed containers.

Since snakes tend to enter the ground floor of homes, the best way to keep snakes out of your home is to seal all ground-floor openings with mesh, caulk, or mortar. Snakes can also slip under ill-fitting doors, including garage doors, so dress the floors with metal surrounds or weatherstripping.

Is Killing Snakes Illegal?

It depends on state law, but most states protect nonvenomous snakes from indiscriminate killing, and you need at least a hunting license to kill them. If killing snakes is legal in your state, you should probably stay away from the shovel anyway: if the snake is venomous, the freshly decapitated heads can still inject venom through a bite reflex that lasts for a short time after death.

Even then, the panic surrounding deadly snakes is largely exaggerated. “Most venomous snakes are not deadly. If you get to a hospital in a day or two, you’ll probably be fine,” Amarello says. “The threat isn’t as great as driving a car or being bitten by a strange dog that shows up in your yard.”

Do mothballs drive away snakes?

Mothballs are a common old-time home remedy for keeping snakes away, but this old wives’ tale doesn’t stand the test of science. Mothballs do not repel snakes. Snakes “smell” with their tongues, so scent-based methods like mothballs are unlikely to deter them. In fact, mothball odors are more likely to bother your homestead’s mammalian residents — curious children and pets have also been known to put toxic mothballs in their mouths — and mothball chemicals like naphthalene can get into your drinking water.

Some commercially available snake repellents can be effective, but Amarello says they, too, “can be more damaging to the garden than having a snake.” If you want to take extra measures to keep snakes out, it is better to build a snake proof fence: at least 4 feet high with a solid buried wooden base and a wall of smooth fine (at least ¼ inch) galvanized mesh.

Commercially marketed snake repellents can be effective, but Amarello says they “can be more damaging to the garden than having a snake.” If you want to take extra measures to keep snakes out, it is better to build a snake proof fence: at least 4 feet high with a solid buried wooden base and a wall of smooth fine (at least ¼ inch) galvanized mesh.

“The main thing is that you want to set it up so that it only goes a little bit into the ground,” says Amarello. “You don’t want them to be able to crawl under it.”

Also, avoid erecting the fence near low trees or shrubs; Snakes can climb and they see branches as bridges.

But Amarello suggests hugging your scaly neighbors.

“I don’t know why people want to keep snakes off their property,” she says. Instead, just clear your sidewalks, watch where you put your hands and feet when poking around in dark places, and enjoy free pest control.

Does Peppermint Oil Help Repel Snakes?

No, peppermint oil does not repel snakes.

You can use peppermint as a natural repellent for various insects and small animals that are snake food, but it will not affect snakes. There are other essential oils like cinnamon, cedarwood, and clove that can keep snakes off your property, but no guarantees. The reason they might work is because they are active ingredients in many commercially sold snake repellent products.

To make a repellent, we recommend taking 30ml of cedarwood oil and adding 5ml of cinnamon oil and 5ml of clove oil. Stir to mix evenly. Add the mixture to 2 cups of water. Use the combination to spray throughout the home. Focus on dark areas where a snake can hide. Use porous surfaces such as wood as it is not effective on non-porous surfaces such as metals.

Other natural products that repel snakes include garlic and onions. The sulfonic acid it contains is just as irritating to snakes as it is to our eyes. Spray garlic and onion water on crawl space entrances, window sills, doors and grounds. The only downside is that you need a lot of spray and you have to reapply it every two weeks.

Plants like roses, lemongrass, and woodworms on the border repel snakes. Their method is not scientifically explained, but it is effective. Monitor the plants as they can spread quickly. Finally, clear debris around the site to deprive the snakes of a shelter and food source.