Best Snake Repellents

There are around 3,400 types of snake species, but the (somewhat) good news is that less than 400 species of snakes are venomous. All breeds of snakes are carnivores. However, their specific diets will vary with each species and their habitats.

Snakes are opportunistic when it comes to what they eat. When anything consumable for them is available, they will often take advantage of it. A Snake’s food sources vary, naturally, with its region. Some snakes will eat a few times a week, while other breeds will eat only a few times a year. Since snakes are rarely super active, they do not require a lot of food to survive.

Snakes are most lively when the temperatures outside are mild—neither too hot nor too cold. In regions with cold winters, they will brumate—or go into a state of near-hibernation where they will awaken but remain inactive.

If you do to see a snake, it will most often be in warm seasons when they are most active. Gardens with extensive wildlife will often harbor more snakes. In most yards, if snakes are spotted, they are usually just passing through unless there are places for them to hide exceptionally well.

There are a couple more in-depth signs that you can look for if you are concerned about snakes. These include finding shed skins and winding trails. Snakes will often molt their skins very soon after surfacing from brumation. Winding paths, like prints from footed animals, on any light dirt or sandy surfaces, can be evidence a snake slithered through.

Along with using any of the products we’ve mentioned, there are some additional ways to make your property less inviting to snakes. Mow your lawn regularly to keep it short—this gives snakes less depth to hide in and will appear as a more dangerous, open stretch of land for them to cross. Clear or trim low-to-the-ground plants or shrubs that provide hiding spots for snakes.

Remove rocks, lawn debris, and wood or log piles as these are excellent hiding spots, as well. Keep compost piles in a sealed bin, not on the ground where critters can invade. Fill in holes that a snake can hide in, such as those under sheds, patios or decks, and around walls. Also remember that an infestation of a snake’s food sources such as mice, rats, chipmunks, frogs, and excessive insects can attract snakes to your property, too. Keeping these animals in check in your area is essential.

You can always double up on deterrent methods for maximum effectiveness. For example, we liked the ultrasonic repellents combined with the spray. The ultrasonic devices not only keep snakes at bay but also small rodents they might hunt. Mixed with something like the spray or granules, you are making your lawn extra unfriendly to snakes, while still keeping it free of toxins, environmentally friendly, and avoiding the hassle of traps.