Many people have a deep fear of snakes, but most of them are harmless creatures that can help maintain the balance in your yard. While snakes like rattlesnakes and copperheads are venomous, most snakes you encounter in urban, suburban, or rural areas are not dangerous. Even though it’s uncommon to be bitten, it’s important to stay cautious. Here’s how to tell if snakes have made their way into your yard.
Shed Snake Skin
One of the clearest signs of a snake in your yard is finding discarded skin. Snakes shed their skin as they grow, and it’s common to find it near their home. Since snakes molt every couple of months, the presence of skin can indicate that they frequent the area. Often, they hide nearby after shedding.
Snake Trails
Snakes move by slithering on the ground, and in soft soil, you may see clear trails. Depending on the species, their movement patterns leave behind different tracks. There are four main types of movement: concertina, lateral undulation, rectilinear movement, and slide pushing. Each type creates a unique pattern on the ground, giving clues to the snake’s size and speed.
Unusual Sounds
Though snakes are generally quiet, you might hear rustling or hissing sounds if you’re near one. This is particularly common if they are hiding in leaves or piles of wood. In some cases, a rattlesnake may even rattle its tail, or you might hear a hissing or buzzing noise. These sounds are a sign to keep your distance.
Snake Smells
Snakes don’t usually have a strong odor, but some species can emit a distinct smell. For example, rat snakes can release a pungent odor, and cottonmouths produce a musk that may remind people of skunks. While identifying the exact smell of a snake is tricky, a foul odor can be a warning sign.
Burrowing Holes
Snakes don’t dig their own holes, but they often occupy those created by other animals, like moles or voles. Look for circular openings in the soil, often located under logs or piles of sticks. These holes may lead to burrows where snakes hide. If you find more than one, it could indicate multiple snakes.
Snake Droppings
Snake droppings are not easy to spot, but they do occur. Snake scat tends to be a mix of feces and urine and may contain remnants of bones, scales, or feathers. This is a sign that a snake is nearby. The size and consistency of the droppings can give clues about the size and type of snake.
Fewer Rodents
Snakes play an important role in controlling the rodent population. If you notice a significant reduction in the number of rats, mice, or other small creatures around your yard, it could be because snakes are present. Although a lack of rodents could also indicate other predators, snakes are often the reason.
Snakes in the Garden
While some snakes are harmless, others, such as rattlesnakes and copperheads, can be dangerous. To ensure safety, always keep a distance if you spot a snake in your yard. If you come across a venomous snake, it’s best to call a professional. Snakes typically avoid humans, but if threatened, they may bite.
How to Prevent Snakes in Your Yard
To prevent snakes from settling in your yard, seal off potential entry points beneath your house or around your foundation. Cracks and spaces under porches and decks can attract snakes, as they offer a cool, damp place to hide. Keep your yard free from debris, tall grass, and dense vegetation, all of which can provide shelter.
Clean Up to Deter Snakes
An untidy yard is an invitation for snakes. Remove piles of wood, leaves, or other debris where snakes could hide. Also, avoid leaving food scraps, pet food, or open garbage cans that could attract rodents, which in turn attract snakes. Keeping your yard clean is one of the best ways to reduce snake activity.
Using Snake Repellents
Natural repellents, like cinnamon, cloves, or ammonia, are often used to keep snakes away. While they may not completely eliminate snakes, they can help deter them from entering your yard. Be sure to use non-toxic products to avoid harming your pets or the environment.
Trap and Relocate Snakes
If you do find a snake in your yard and want to remove it safely, consider using live traps. These traps allow you to catch the snake without harming it and then relocate it far from your property. Ensure that you move the snake at least 10 miles away to avoid it returning.
If you’re uncertain or uncomfortable dealing with snakes, it’s best to contact local animal control or a professional snake handler. They can safely remove any snakes from your property, ensuring both your safety and the well-being of the snakes. Many localities have laws protecting snakes, so it’s important to handle the situation in a humane way.
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