Natural Snake Repellents

Natural Snake Deterrents

For many homeowners, few pests are as frightening and bothersome as snakes. Although non-poisonous serpents are more of a nuisance than a threat, the venomous varieties can be downright terrifying and even life threatening. While homeowners desire snake-free yards, many consumers are uncomfortable with the idea of solving their pest problems with potentially harmful chemicals. If this is you, you'll be happy to know that there are plenty of safe and natural ways to protect your home from these slithering pests.

When You See a Snake

Before delving into homemade snake solutions, it is important to know what to do when you spot a snake. Generally speaking, snakes aren't aggressive toward humans unless provoked. Therefore, if you see a snake on your property, it is best to leave it alone. More than likely, it is harmless and just passing through your yard on its way to some other destination. If you suspect that it's poisonous, you can call a wildlife removal company or an animal control officer. Once you notice signs of snake activity, it's time to protect your home against these pests.

Clear the Clutter

The best method to fight any pest is through prevention. When it comes to snakes, these creatures love to remain hidden at all times, so it is natural for them to gravitate toward tall grass, shrubs, wood piles and more. With this in mind, your first step to a snake-free yard should be creating an environment that discourages snake habitation. This may include any of the following actions:

1. Keeping your yard mowed
2. Trimming or removing shrubs
3. Clearing areas of debris
4. Relocating wood or log piles

If your yard is unappealing to snakes and lacks adequate shelter for them, they will move on in search of a better suited territory.

Install a Fence

If your snake problem is particularly bothersome, one solid, long-term solution is building a barrier around the perimeter of your home where you work or play. To achieve a snake-proof fence, you'll need the following items:

1. 1/4-inch wire mesh
2. Supporting stakes
3. Snug-fitting gate

The wire mesh or cloth should be no less than 3 feet tall. For an impenetrable fit, you'll need to bury the stakes and mesh about 6 inches into the ground. To counteract their climbing skills, angle the fence outward roughly 30 degrees.

Utilize Oils

Thanks to a snake's sensitive sense of smell, certain natural oils provide a cost-effective and safe way to repel these creepy crawlers. In fact, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services depends on such oils to solve their snake problems. The following varieties seem to be the most effective:

1. Cinnamon oil
2. Clove oil
3. Cedar oil

You can create a homemade spray solution by filling a squirt bottle with water and three to four drops of your preferred oil. This method is most potent when sprayed directly on a snake, but you can also soak strips of cotton cloth and place them around the vicinity of your home. However, you would need to re-apply the oil every week for continuous protection.

When to Call a Professional

The beauty of these natural methods is that they can be used in conjunction with each other to create a snake-free zone. However, if a snake invades your home despite your well-laid plans, it may be time to call a pest control company. Fortunately, many pest professionals offer effective snake solutions that are free from hazardous materials. For example, pest technicians often turn to snake traps as a safe alternative to remove these pests. With a growing concern for society's health and the environment, more companies are starting to offer chemical-free solutions, and you may be pleasantly surprised to find organic options available at your local pest control company.

Whether you seek natural snake deterrents for your children's safety, your family's health or the environment's well-being, you have several home-friendly methods to choose from as you rid your property of this slithering species.