Nobody wants to find a snake coiled up in their garden shed. Yet dealing with unwanted serpents doesn’t mean you need to resort to harmful chemicals or lethal traps that can hurt other animals too. Natural snake control protects your property while keeping the ecosystem balanced.
These five methods work with nature instead of against it.
Natural Predators
Some of the best snake deterrents already exist in nature. Encouraging these animals to visit your yard creates a natural balance that keeps snake populations in check.
- Hawks and owls hunt snakes from above, so installing perches or nesting boxes can attract these helpful birds
- Chickens and guinea fowl are surprisingly effective snake hunters and will patrol your property for you
- King snakes eat other snakes, including venomous species, making them valuable allies
Creating habitat for these predators means leaving some wild areas in your yard and providing water sources. The predators will handle the snake control for you.
Plant Repellents
Certain plants contain compounds that snakes find unpleasant. These natural repellents won’t guarantee a snake-free zone, but they can make your space less attractive to wandering serpents. Marigolds release a strong scent that many snakes dislike.
Plant them around the perimeter of your garden or near areas where you’ve spotted snake activity. Garlic works similarly and has the added benefit of deterring other pests too. Lemongrass contains citronella, which creates an aromatic barrier. Plant it in clusters for maximum effect.
These plants need regular care to maintain their repellent properties, so keep them healthy and well-watered.
Professional Snake Control
Sometimes you need expert help, especially if you’re dealing with venomous species or large populations. Wildlife control professionals have specialized knowledge and tools that homeowners don’t possess.
Look for snake control services that focus on humane removal and relocation rather than extermination. Many professionals will also identify what’s attracting snakes to your property and suggest specific improvements.
Regular property inspections can catch snake problems before they become serious. Professionals know what signs to look for and can spot potential issues that untrained eyes might miss.
Physical Barriers
Sometimes the simplest solutions work best. Creating physical obstacles prevents snakes from entering specific areas without harming them or other wildlife. Fine mesh fencing buried a few inches underground stops snakes from slithering under barriers.
The mesh should extend at least two feet above ground and have openings smaller than a quarter-inch. Hardware cloth works well for this purpose. Snake-proof netting over garden beds or compost piles provides protection while still allowing air and water through.
Maintain a Tidy Yard
A well-maintained yard removes the shelter and hunting grounds that attract snakes. This method requires ongoing effort but delivers consistent results. Keep grass cut short and remove brush piles, fallen logs, and dense vegetation where snakes might hide.
Trim shrubs so there’s space between the ground and lowest branches. Store firewood on racks rather than directly on the ground. Seal gaps under porches, sheds, and other structures. Even small openings can provide snake hideouts. Use hardware cloth or concrete to close these spaces permanently.
