Best Snake Repellents for Yards in 2025: Complete Buyer’s Guide

Last updated on May 8, 2025

Finding yourself face-to-face with a snake in your yard can be alarming, whether you have a snake phobia or not. While some snakes are beneficial for controlling pests like rodents, venomous species can pose serious risks to you, your family, and pets. This comprehensive guide breaks down the most effective snake repellents of 2025, helping you select the right solution to keep unwanted serpents away from your property safely and humanely.

Quick Picks: Best Snake Repellents for 2025

1

Nature's MACE Snake Repellent
Nature’s MACE Snake Repellent
Editor’s Choice

2

Victor Snake-A-Way Granules
Victor Snake-A-Way Granules
People’s Choice

3

Bonide Snake Stopper Granules
Bonide Snake Stopper Granules
Also Great

Understanding Snake Repellents: What Works and What Doesn’t

Snake repellents are designed to deter snakes from entering specific areas without harming them. They work by creating an unpleasant environment that snakes prefer to avoid. There are three main types of snake repellents available: granular repellents, liquid sprays, and ultrasonic devices. Each uses different mechanisms to repel snakes from your property.

How Snake Repellents Work
Most snake repellents target the snake’s sensory organs. Snakes have a unique organ called the Jacobson’s organ (or vomeronasal organ) that helps them “taste” the air. When they flick their tongues, they’re collecting scent particles that are then analyzed by this specialized organ. Effective repellents create scents or sensations that disrupt this system, making the area uncomfortable for snakes.
Repellent Type How It Works Effectiveness Safety
Natural Oil-Based Granules Uses essential oils like cedarwood, clove, and cinnamon that irritate snakes’ sensory organs Moderate to high, depending on snake species Safe for pets, children, and plants
Sulfur/Naphthalene Granules Strong chemical compounds that disrupt snakes’ ability to sense their environment High for most species, but potential environmental concerns Use with caution around children and pets
Liquid Sprays Concentrated essential oils in liquid form for easy application Moderate, but requires frequent reapplication Generally safe, but some formulas may harm plants
Ultrasonic Devices Emits vibrations or frequencies claimed to be unpleasant for snakes Limited scientific evidence of effectiveness Safe for all environments
Despite marketing claims, scientific research has found that no snake repellent is 100% effective at keeping all snake species away. The best approach is to use repellents as part of a comprehensive snake prevention strategy that includes habitat modification and proper yard maintenance.

Top 5 Best Snake Repellents in 2025 Reviewed

After extensive research and evaluation, we’ve identified the top snake repellents currently available. Each product has been assessed based on effectiveness, safety, ease of use, and value for money.

1

Nature's MACE Snake Repellent

Editor's Choice
Nature's MACE Snake Granular Repellent
Nature's MACE combines powerful natural ingredients with proven effectiveness to create a safe, eco-friendly snake repellent that won't harm your family, pets, or garden. Its potent formula covers up to 2,500 square feet with just 5 pounds of product.

How Does It Work

Nature's MACE works by targeting a snake's highly sensitive Jacobson's organ, which they use to 'taste' the air and detect their surroundings. The specific blend of cedarwood oil (5%), clove oil (0.3%), rosemary oil (0.5%), and cinnamon oil (0.4%) creates a sensory environment that snakes find extremely unpleasant, causing them to retreat from treated areas without causing them harm.

How to Use

  • Simply sprinkle the granules around the perimeter of your property, creating a barrier approximately 8-12 inches wide
  • Focus application around areas where snakes might enter or frequent, such as garden beds, woodpiles, or foundations
  • For optimal protection, reapply every 30-90 days or after heavy rainfall
  • One 5-pound container covers approximately 2,500 square feet

Pros

  • Works quickly and effectively against most snake species
  • Water-resistant formula can withstand light to moderate rain
  • Completely biodegradable and environmentally friendly
  • All-natural, organic ingredients safe for use around children and pets
  • Clean, no-mess formula with convenient shaker top
  • Can last up to 4 months in ideal conditions

Cons

  • Only repels snakes, does not eliminate existing infestations
  • May cause skin irritation with direct contact
  • Requires reapplication after heavy rain
  • More expensive than some chemical alternatives

Click Here to Learn More
2

Victor Snake-A-Way Granules

People's Choice
Snake-A-Way Repelling Granules
Victor Snake-A-Way is a university-tested snake repellent that creates an effective barrier against both venomous and non-venomous snakes. With over 10,000 positive reviews and coverage for up to half an acre per application, it's a popular choice for larger properties.

How Does It Work

Snake-A-Way uses naphthalene (7%) and sulfur (28%) to disrupt a snake's chemosensory system. When snakes encounter these compounds, their sensory receptors become overwhelmed, making it difficult for them to detect prey or navigate properly. This creates an uncomfortable environment that causes snakes to seek areas with fresher air and clearer sensory input.

How to Use

  • Apply granules in a continuous band around areas needing protection
  • Create a barrier 4-5 inches wide for best results
  • Place around home perimeters, sheds, gardens, and recreational areas
  • One 10-pound bag can treat approximately 1.25 acres
  • Reapply every 60-90 days or after heavy rainfall

Pros

  • Scientifically tested with 91% effectiveness against rattlesnakes and garter snakes
  • Long-lasting formula provides up to 3 months of protection
  • EPA-registered product with proven results
  • Water-resistant formula maintains effectiveness through light rain
  • Covers large areas efficiently, making it economical for bigger properties

Cons

  • Contains naphthalene, which has a strong, unpleasant odor
  • May not be safe for all pets (use with caution)
  • Packaging could be improved for easier application
  • Not ideal for use in vegetable gardens or near food sources

Click Here to Learn More
3

Bonide Snake Stopper Granules

Also Great
Bonide Snake Stopper Granules
Bonide Snake Stopper offers a dependable, all-natural approach to snake control using a proprietary blend of essential oils. This USDA-approved formula effectively repels snakes without harming your garden or the environment.

How Does It Work

Bonide Snake Stopper uses a carefully formulated blend of cedarwood oil (3.1%), cinnamon oil (0.6%), and clove oil (0.3%) to create an environment that snakes find inhospitable. These essential oils affect the snake's Jacobson's organ, confusing their sensory perception and making treated areas uncomfortable, causing them to retreat to more hospitable environments.

How to Use

  • Apply granules in a continuous band around areas requiring protection
  • Create a barrier approximately 6-8 inches wide
  • Focus on high-risk areas such as foundations, patios, and garden perimeters
  • Reapply every two weeks or after rainfall
  • For best results, apply during dry weather conditions

Pros

  • Non-toxic, all-natural ingredient profile
  • Safe for use around children, pets, and plants
  • USDA-recommended ingredients ensure environmental safety
  • Effective against most common snake species
  • Pleasant aroma compared to chemical alternatives

Cons

  • Requires more frequent reapplication than some alternatives
  • Not water-resistant and washes away easily with rain
  • Cannot be sold in every state due to regulations
  • Less effective in extremely wet conditions

Click Here to Learn More
4

Liquid Fence Snake Repellent

Best Liquid Formula
Liquid Fence offers a highly concentrated, time-release granular formula that provides extended protection against both venomous and non-venomous snakes. Its pleasant wintergreen scent makes it ideal for areas where strong odors would be problematic.

How Does It Work

Liquid Fence uses a proprietary blend of essential oils, including wintergreen oil, that creates an invisible barrier snakes avoid. The time-release formula gradually disperses the active compounds, maintaining a consistent level of protection that disrupts snakes' sensory organs without being overpowering to humans.

How to Use

  • Sprinkle granules evenly around perimeters requiring protection
  • Create a barrier 4-6 inches wide for optimal coverage
  • Apply more heavily in known snake problem areas
  • Water lightly after application to activate the time-release properties
  • Reapply every 30 days or after heavy rainfall

Pros

  • Pleasant wintergreen scent is undetectable to humans at a distance
  • Does not contain naphthalene or other harsh chemicals
  • Highly concentrated, time-release formula provides extended protection
  • Safe for use around children, pets, and plants
  • Biodegradable formula is environmentally responsible

Cons

  • Larger granule size may be attractive to curious children or pets
  • Limited warranty period (30 days) compared to other products
  • Customer service responsiveness has been inconsistent
  • May require more frequent application in wet climates

Click Here to Learn More
5

Snake Scram Pro

Professional Strength
Snake Scram Pro is a professional-grade granular repellent formulated with a potent blend of natural oils designed to create a powerful barrier against snakes. This product is frequently used by pest management professionals for its reliable performance and coverage.

How Does It Work

Snake Scram Pro uses a specialized blend of cedar oil (3%), clove oil (0.508%), cinnamon oil (0.508%), rosemary oil (1.5%), and garlic oil (0.03%) that targets snakes' highly sensitive Jacobson's organ. This unique combination creates a sensory barrier that makes snakes feel uncertain and vulnerable, prompting them to leave the area quickly.

How to Use

  • Apply granules in a continuous band around the perimeter of areas needing protection
  • Create a barrier 6-8 inches wide for optimal effectiveness
  • Can be used indoors in crawl spaces, basements, and attics
  • One pound covers approximately 600 square feet
  • Reapply every 30 days or after significant rainfall

Pros

  • Professional-strength formula with proven effectiveness
  • All-natural, biodegradable ingredients
  • Safe for use indoors and outdoors
  • No climate restrictions for use
  • Fast-acting formula shows results within 24-48 hours

Cons

  • Lower concentration means more frequent reapplication
  • Can potentially affect water quality if used near ponds or streams
  • Larger pellet size may be noticeable in landscaped areas
  • More expensive than some consumer-grade alternatives

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Snake Repellent Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Product

When selecting a snake repellent, several key factors should influence your decision. Understanding these elements will help you choose the most effective solution for your specific situation.

  • Effectiveness Against Target Snake Species Different repellents work better against certain snake species. If you know which types of snakes are common in your area, choose a product specifically effective against those species.
  • Safety for Household Members and Pets Consider who has access to the areas where you’ll apply repellent. If you have children or pets that play in your yard, prioritize non-toxic, natural formulations.
  • Environmental Impact Some repellents contain chemicals that can affect local ecosystems, particularly in wet areas or near water sources. Natural oil-based repellents are generally more environmentally friendly.
  • Application Area and Coverage Calculate the square footage you need to protect and check how much area each product covers. For large properties, products offering extensive coverage like Snake-A-Way may be more economical.
  • Weather Resistance If you live in a rainy climate, look for water-resistant formulations that won’t wash away easily. Some products maintain effectiveness through light rain but require reapplication after heavy downpours.
  • Longevity and Reapplication Requirements Consider how frequently you’ll need to reapply the repellent. Products with longer-lasting formulas may cost more initially but require less maintenance over time.
  • Active Ingredients Matter
    The most effective snake repellents typically use one of two approaches:

    • Essential Oils: Products containing cedarwood, clove, cinnamon, or rosemary oils are generally safer but may require more frequent application.
    • Chemical Compounds: Naphthalene and sulfur-based products tend to last longer but come with additional safety considerations.

    Why Use Snake Repellent?

    Encountering snakes on your property can range from a mild inconvenience to a serious safety concern, depending on the species present in your area. Understanding the benefits of using snake repellent can help you decide whether it’s the right solution for your situation.

    Safety

    Venomous snake bites can be life-threatening to humans and pets. Repellents create a buffer zone that reduces the likelihood of dangerous encounters.

    Peace of Mind

    Even non-venomous snakes can cause stress and anxiety for family members with ophidiophobia (fear of snakes), making outdoor spaces less enjoyable.

    Pet Protection

    Curious dogs and cats often investigate snakes, putting them at risk of bites. Repellents help create safer outdoor areas for your pets to explore.

    Prevention vs. Removal
    Snake repellents are preventative measures, not solutions for existing snake problems. If you already have snakes on your property, consider consulting with a professional wildlife removal service before applying repellents.

    How to Use Snake Repellents Effectively

    To maximize the effectiveness of snake repellents, proper application and strategic placement are critical. Follow these guidelines to create the most effective snake barrier possible:

    Expert Application Tips

    • Apply repellents in a continuous band around the entire perimeter of the area you want to protect
    • Create barriers that are 4-8 inches wide (follow specific product recommendations)
    • Focus on known entry points: gaps under fences, around foundations, and near outbuildings
    • Apply more heavily in areas with dense vegetation, woodpiles, or rock features
    • Reapply according to the product schedule, increasing frequency after rain or in humid conditions
    • Wear gloves during application to prevent skin irritation and contamination
    • Apply when snakes are most active (spring and fall) for optimal preventative effect
    For maximum protection, combine snake repellents with habitat modification. Remove debris piles, keep grass short, eliminate rodent populations, and seal entry points around buildings. These complementary measures significantly enhance the effectiveness of chemical repellents.

    Natural vs. Chemical Snake Repellents: Which Is Better?

    The debate between natural and chemical snake repellents centers around the balance between effectiveness and safety. Understanding the pros and cons of each approach can help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and concerns.

    Factor Natural Oil-Based Repellents Chemical Repellents
    Effectiveness Moderately effective; may require more frequent application Generally more potent and longer-lasting
    Safety Safe for children, pets, and wildlife with minimal precautions May require careful handling; some ingredients can be toxic
    Environmental Impact Minimal; biodegradable and eco-friendly Higher; some chemicals can affect local ecosystems
    Longevity Typically 2-4 weeks before reapplication needed Often 1-3 months of effectiveness per application
    Weather Resistance Less resistant to rain and environmental factors Better performance in adverse weather conditions
    Cost-Effectiveness Higher initial cost; more frequent reapplication increases long-term expense Often more economical over time despite similar initial cost
    Recent research suggests certain essential oils like cinnamon, clove, and peppermint have demonstrated effectiveness as snake deterrents, though results vary by species and concentration. For those concerned about chemical exposure, these natural alternatives offer a reasonable compromise between safety and efficacy.

    Do Ultrasonic Snake Repellents Really Work?

    Ultrasonic and vibration-based snake repellents have gained popularity as a chemical-free alternative, but their effectiveness is subject to ongoing debate in the scientific community.

    There is no scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of ultrasonic snake repellers. These devices emit high-frequency sounds supposedly irritating to snakes, but studies show they have no measurable impact on snake behavior. Despite manufacturer claims, independent testing has failed to verify their efficacy.

    While some homeowners report success with electronic repellers, these results may be coincidental or due to other environmental factors. If you choose to try ultrasonic devices, consider them a supplementary measure rather than your primary snake deterrent strategy.

    Alternative Methods for Snake Control

    Snake repellents are just one tool in a comprehensive approach to snake management. Consider these additional strategies to create a less hospitable environment for snakes:

    Habitat Modification

    Keep grass cut short, remove brush piles, and minimize ground cover near buildings. Eliminate hiding places like rock piles, lumber stacks, and dense vegetation.

    Rodent Control

    Snakes follow food sources, so controlling rodent populations will make your property less attractive. Use sealed trash containers and remove bird feeders that might attract mice.

    Exclusion Methods

    Install snake-proof fencing made of fine mesh buried at least 6 inches underground and angled outward. Seal gaps and cracks in building foundations, walls, and around doors.

    Professional Services

    For persistent snake problems, wildlife management professionals can provide comprehensive solutions including removal, exclusion, and habitat modification.

    Snake Barriers
    For high-risk areas, installing shade cloth on perimeter fencing (about 1 meter high and dug at least
    30cm into the ground) can prevent over 90% of snakes from entering your property. Ensure entrance gates are also well-sealed for maximum effectiveness.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Are snake repellents safe for pets and children?

    The safety of snake repellents varies by product. Natural, essential oil-based repellents are generally safe around pets and children when used as directed, though direct contact should be avoided. Products containing naphthalene or sulfur require more careful handling and should be kept away from areas where children play or pets roam.

    Always read product labels carefully, wear gloves during application, and keep children and pets away from freshly treated areas until the product has dried or settled.

    How long do snake repellents typically last?

    The longevity of snake repellents varies significantly based on product formulation and environmental conditions. Natural oil-based products typically need reapplication every 2-4 weeks, while chemical formulations may last 1-3 months.

    Weather conditions dramatically affect duration, with heavy rain or irrigation requiring immediate reapplication regardless of the product’s stated effectiveness period.

    Will snake repellents harm beneficial garden snakes?

    Snake repellents don’t discriminate between “beneficial” and “harmful” snakes – they repel all species similarly. The good news is that most repellents don’t cause physical harm to snakes; they simply create an uncomfortable environment that snakes choose to avoid.

    If you value having some snake presence for natural pest control, consider using repellents only in specific areas where human activity is highest.

    Can I use snake repellents in my vegetable garden?

    For vegetable gardens, stick to natural, essential oil-based repellents that are certified safe for food-growing areas. Chemical-based products containing naphthalene or sulfur should never be used near edible plants.

    Apply natural repellents around the perimeter of the garden rather than directly on soil where vegetables are growing, and always wash produce thoroughly before consumption.

    Are homemade snake repellents effective?

    Common homemade snake repellents include mixtures of essential oils, vinegar, or garlic. While these may have some limited repellent properties, they generally lack the concentration and formulation needed for reliable effectiveness.

    Commercial products undergo testing for both efficacy and safety that homemade solutions cannot match. If you choose to try DIY options, consider them supplementary to more proven methods.

    Conclusion: Choosing the Right Snake Repellent for Your Needs

    Finding the most effective snake repellent depends on your specific situation, including the types of snakes in your area, your property size, and your safety priorities. Based on our comprehensive review, here are our top recommendations:

    • Best Overall: Nature’s MACE Snake Repellent offers the best balance of effectiveness, safety, and environmental responsibility.
    • Best for Large Properties: Victor Snake-A-Way provides extensive coverage and long-lasting protection, making it ideal for larger yards.
    • Best Natural Option: Bonide Snake Stopper Granules uses only essential oils for those prioritizing natural solutions.
    • Best for Indoor Use: Snake Scram Pro is one of the few formulations explicitly approved for indoor application in areas like basements and crawl spaces.
    • Best for Pleasant Scent: Liquid Fence Snake Repellent offers effective protection without the harsh odors associated with many repellent products.
    Remember the Limitations
    No snake repellent offers 100% guaranteed protection. For optimal results, combine repellents with proper yard maintenance, structural exclusion methods, and rodent control. In areas with venomous snake populations, remain vigilant even after applying repellents.

    When used correctly as part of a comprehensive snake management strategy, quality snake repellents can significantly reduce your chances of unwanted encounters with these slithering visitors. By understanding the strengths and limitations of different repellent types, you can make an informed decision that provides peace of mind while respecting both human safety and ecological considerations.

    Final Recommendation
    For most homeowners, we recommend starting with Nature’s MACE Snake Repellent. Its combination of effectiveness, safety, and reasonable longevity makes it suitable for most residential applications. Apply it according to the manufacturer’s directions, maintain your yard appropriately, and enjoy your outdoor spaces with greater peace of mind.
    Inga Cryton

    About the author

    Inga Cryton is the researcher and creator behind PestKill.org, a site dedicated to providing well-researched pest management information. Through thorough research and consultation of reliable sources, she shares effective and environmentally responsible pest control strategies. Have a question or topic suggestion? Get in touch.

    Leave a Comment

    259 thoughts on “Best Snake Repellents for Yards in 2025: Complete Buyer’s Guide”

    1. I’m reading all of this about snakes and now do not know what to do! I have seen some snakes in my periodically. They are not poisonous and are not in the house. They are in my garden and when I am walking I jump when I see them and literally jump and scream(I know, I know, I’m a wimp- I don’t need to be told that they are doing good for the environment and they won’t hurt me. Trust me, I get it). But, I don’t like them. Can anyone tell me the best thing to do. I am reading several opinions. No kids, no pets, large yard.

      Reply
    2. oh my, I am in Canada reading all the above posts. I am trying to get rid of the gardners around our cottage – sorry, snakes are not our friends and God actually took away their legs as a punishment with Eve’s bad advice! I will purchase LYE and buy some for my neighbors. I have feared them for my entire life – now at 51 just tired of them! Hoping to move to Florida or Texas and googling which area has less – terrible that the fear of them make my life decisions.

      Reply
    3. A harlequin snake has appeared at our garage. Watched mesmerized as it slithered down the step. Phoned for help and by that time it had made a hole near a wall and disappeared. Going to get moth balls NOW.

      Reply
    4. PS- does anyone know a natural-spider-repellant site, with good information? Because this is the time of year they start moving inside, and I nearly fell over when I saw a HUGE spider on my ceiling when I woke up this morning.. Thanks!
      Belle

      Reply
    5. Not sure whether to trust any snake-repellant advice, but I sure had some much-appreciated belly-laughs tonight, reading all these comments!
      I think I’ll be mixing crushed garlic with neem oil, spraying that around but it will smell strong: so I will also be mixing cinnamon oil with clove oil, adding some coconut oil (maybe?) or Skin So Soft by Avon (it keeps mosquitos, flies, ants and some other bugs away), shake it good and spray it around my doors, windows, and around the edges of my porch, plus into new wasp and bumblebee/hornet’s nests, as it has made those go away, also. Hoping the sweet smells will damp down the garlic smell somewhat…
      Bugs have been awful this year, and I have severe allergies to some..Snake has gotten into my bed mattress more than once, which is going to give me a heart attack if it gets between my sheets! I literally could not feel my pulse anywhere on/in my body for nearly 30 minutes, 3 days ago.. If this plan would not help at all, please advise.. Thanks!
      Southern-most Ohio Belle

      Reply
    6. best way is to hrind the moth balls up or smash them to small peices and sprinkle it around the outside of ya house and perimeter of yard and shed/barn after a heavy rain storm repeat but a sun shower wont hurt…sprinkle in holes and hollowed out trees..keep grass low cut and logs or piles of sticks away..

      Reply
    7. Hi:
      We live in the country. We get rid of snakes this way: Take gasoline and pour in the hole. then stnd back and throw a match. That ends them.

      Reply
    8. Well what ever you do don’t move to Australia because we have our fill of snakes as well! All your comments have caused a great belly laugh which was much needed as a 4 foot red bellied black has me bailed up with the dogs inside. Got bitten by a brown snake when I was young so my phobia has a strong basis, apart from my tendency to flick my tongue out and chase mice I don’t think the bit affected me too much…I’ve called the snake man from the next town for help….

      Reply
    9. WTH, I just want to keep snakes out of my fenced in yard. Dead or not I don’t care. I want my kids and dogs safe. All I read here is a bunch of jackass’s pointing their fingers like s politician who just stole from social security. All I want is a natural repellant that won’t hurt my dogs. Then I found a artical, take cinemin oil and olive oil and mix them equally. Spray it everywhere you don’t want snakes. And 2nd get a plant called society garlic. Pretty blue flowers. Snakes hate the shit. Y’all are welcome !

      Reply
    10. Live in GA, new house with buffer woods behind grass line. I decided to clean out some of the buffer woods to place a pavers patio/w fire pit there, and found 3 baby snakes (2 brown snakes, 1 black snake with gold ring). After killing them, I did research to find they are non venomous, but I don’t think my family or I will find much pleasure in my new outdoor area if we feel that snakes will be crawling around in the area. Have purchased Snake Away, but it has been raining daily in GA and I’m afraid its just going to wash it, or anything else I put down, away an hour after I put it down. I will try moth balls with kitty litter as they are a little less expensive than the Snake Away. Not a fan of any kind of snake and would prefer they stay far away from my yard/house.

      Reply
      • Try cinemon oil and olive oil. Mix it equally. Spray it all over the area. Snakes hate it. If you find a snake, spray it on them. It will crawl off and die. Also garlic. Snakes hate garlic.

        Reply
    11. I definitely agree with those people who aren’t fans of snakes. Randomly seeing them somewhere, such as in our garage, is terrifying for people who aren’t fond of them. We had a neighbor help us get rid of a black snake in the garage yesterday. He killed it and the next day when I was in the garage to throw some trash out, I turn to go in the house and there’s another black snake on the step near the door..Scared the heck outta me! So yes I’m here looking into deterrents so I’m not scared half to death in the garage anymore.

      Reply
    12. Snake repellents do not work,last yearI had a huge black snake visiting all my bird houses, eating the birds, after swallowing bird he would slither to my garage floor to sleep it off, I sprayed him point blank with snake repellent,sprayed entire yard, repellent had a nice strong scent.He kept coming back, so I shot him and gave him to the local buzzard we fondly call John Henry.

      Reply
    13. Live in Texas Panhandle and a few years back found rattlesnake din on my small farm. Killed 22 in 1day. Called Texas Tech University for advice. Was informed to pour 1gallon of household ammonia on den site. Cheap. Did so and have not seen any more rattlers until this week! This morning killed a 10 button rattler in my laundry room, inside house! Back to the store for more ammonia. Nasty stuff, but not as nasty as rattlers! Beware if pet owner!

      Reply
    14. My friend told me today that they have seen a 2+meter Black Mamba enter into their roof. They often hear it (them) slithering up in the ceiling. They have found many babies on the floor between the tiles. How can we get rid of them?

      Reply
    15. In Wisconsin most country people used to keep a bull snake in the cellar and root cellars to kill any rodents or timber rattlers (poisonous). Even knew someone in Idaho who had one in the chicken coop slep on top of the nest boxes, never bothered the eggs just snacked on rodents. Bull snakes can be big but if your having to protect people and pets from poisonous snakes, fight fire with fire. We lived in a snake infested old sawmill area. My mom had to ride the lawn mower with a pistol as the snakes would kill the mower she’d have to stand on the seat until the snake slithered out. Man was she a good shot with the .22, shotgun shells go too expensive. The yard was bulldozed, full of snake eggs. Lots of bullets. Killed alot of 6-10 footer ” Grandaddys” we called them. Nonpoisonous thank God but my mom was a city girl. I dont know how she ever survived it with 5 little kids. Needless to say most of us are not afraid of snakes. Just the youngest who wasn’t old enough to ” desensitize before we moved. If you built on snake habit, you will have snakes. The best fix – to move.

      Reply
    16. Walking through the bush to a secluded clothing-free beach, we all threw our clothes in our backpacks and trekked on. I got the urge to pee, so I hung back a bit from the group.
      I was mid stream while watching that the girls didn’t look back, when I happened to glance down to find I was actually peeing on a HUGE venomous snake about the length of the Great Wall of China….and he wasn’t happy.
      Needless to say, I was off like a racehorse.
      The rest of my group swear I went past them @ mk2, pointing back and screaming something about dragons…….
      …..putting out bushfires as I went.
      Sigh……yes, apparently I was still peeing like a racehorse as I passed, and later, everyone could point to the wet plimsol line on their legs as proof.
      Also, photos were taken, just in case their great great grandchildren should forget any small part of the story, 150 years from now.

      I’ve faked my death and moved interstate now.

      Danny.

      Reply
    17. Help…I just moved to a heavily wooded area and I have a ditch in the back yard which holds rain water for days…While walking my pup I seen a head pop up from the water…Of course I ran inside. I’m terribly afraid of snakes and already have heart issues….So what can I put in yard ,water…Everywhere???? Is moth balls only harmful to pets if swallowed??? Thanks

      Reply
    18. I don’t like cats, but I have about 12 or 13 sometimes more. I have only seen one snake in about 15 years. Of course there are no squirrels,
      and birds stay high up. Mice generally stay away too. No bugs. I’m willing to keep the cats.

      Reply
    19. like the info was told use chorine pool tabs bad snakes got rattle snake timber pygmy and timber some areas bad s.e. georgia gonna try kitty litter and moth balls got large area to cover life in woody country

      Reply
    20. My Grandfather had a snake that upset my Grandmother so she put mothballs in his underwear draw & that snake didn’t upset her again.

      Reply
    21. had a contractor put down moth balls and broken cfl bulbs that contain mercury. read that the cfl bulbs can turn to merthlymercury in the soil bacteria and am wondering who would know if the combination would be hazard

      Reply
    22. I am working in Democratic Republic of Congo. Large tents are our accommodations. Our camp is in an isolated wooded location. Where black mambas are abundant. Every now and then snake would crawl in some of the tents around the camp. What would be the best natural repellant for snakes that would best applicable in our location.

      Reply
    23. Mothballs, you need educating. DOES NOT WORK for snakes.

      Use of a pesticide not in
      accordance with the label is a violation of
      the Florida Pesticide Law. Violators may
      be subject to administrative action, which
      includes fines up to $10,000 per violation.
      In addition, those misusing pesticides may
      be subject to the penalty provisions of the
      Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and
      Rodenticide Act, administered by the EPA.

      Reply
    24. Well its a sleepless night in SC. Ihink I have a King snakein my vacuum cleaner!! I did not look at it long enough to determine whether it is poisonious or not. Thank God I was using the hose of the vacuum at the time. Otherwise I do not know what I would have done other than vacate the premisis. I have lights on and I cannot shut my eyes. This may sound stupid to some but I dont do spiders and/or snakes. Someone is going to have to make an exit for this creature or the garbage pick uo will be hauling off my Hoover today!! Oh, did I mentionI killed a Huge spider today while cleaning my kitchen. It was on the 2nd shelf just peeping around the dividerlike it wanted to pounce on me!! I swatted at it, it dropped tobthe counter and in between my heart attack I managed toswat Iit. This just has not been my day. V

      Reply
    25. mothballs are toxic to pets the odor can kill a cat cause liver or kidney damage blindness and coma from the fumes. Pregnant women can have possible side effects from inhalation of fumes causing unborn child to have hemolytic anemia. WHO (world health organization)feels it can be possible carcinogen. Recommendation is when in use to be self contained. not spread over yard. can leach into soil and plants use with caution. Ir was used at work outside in yard and in 10minutes we had headache and nausea. If scattered in grass danger is small child and or animal might eat or touch. Dermal touch of product can possible cause side effects…hence the warning to glove up and mask. Heck shot the damn snake sounds safer to me with a 410 and snake or rat shot. Hand it on the fence of your garden for a few days as a deterrant for other snakes and or crows. Signed a registered nurse

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    26. i had found snakes in my inside of house for searching rats.. at night time roof of my hut and on the mud walls….i have two children…please give best suggestion as early as possible…

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    27. (((I HAVE ENJOYED)))) Each, and every one of your comments”””On SNAKES!!! I make sure OUR HOME has all holes sealed up with spray foam. No mice have been in the House in Years!!! THANK YOU LORD!! I keep WASP SPRAY ON BOTH MY PORCHES, and Hubby uses SNAKE AWAY around the Yard!! I love you all, and mat God Bless you, and keep you all safe!!

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    28. I’m reading all this I’m currently at my office about to sleep on the sofa as its so early morning I can’t find a hotel that will let me check in. At 1:00 went to the bathroom came out saw the tail end of a snake slithering into the spare bedroom couldn’t tell size 2 weeks ago found baby milksnake on window sill……I need help before I burn my house to the ground. …my lawn guy 2 weeks ago put down snakes way and lye which he said would keep them out but ummmm No….I’m crying so hard I’m vomitting…..desperate! !

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    29. I have also heard of the moth ball trick, but I just recently heard that if you or just pour a touch of gasoline into their hole they will leave because they hate the smell of it. You don’t have to light it. I am still going to put some mouth balls out, but in plastic bottles so my dogs and horses don’t get sick and so the mouth balls don’t poison my ground. I have a well. So that would be bad!

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    30. I bought a house in North Carolina that had been empty for 4-5 years. We have been repairing it and we live in it when we go down for the weekend. We have found several snake skin from the shedding. Two inside the house and Two outside of the house. We are now finding snake scat in new places. We have looked for the snake and we can not find them. How can I get rid of them

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    31. About the black racer snake : that snake is a constrictor , non venomous (if it’s really a black racer , remember some snakesdo look alike but they are not the same , never approach one if you are not 200 per cent sure ) .

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    32. I am huge fan of venomous snakes and i love them but at the same time i wouldn’t wanna have any around my house or where i live , i would make sure i get rid of them entirely which means i would either kill them myself or have a professional snake hunter get rid of them from the whole area and NOT throw them across the road , Rattlers would make a great belts and cowboys shoes , i would leave the head for my hat lol but seriously how can you live with snakes around you ? It’s either you or them , these products don’t work one hundred per cent so make sure you get rid of them and their nests and do it the right way and remember snakes are faster than you so if u don’t know what you doing then Call the pros , don’t put your life at risk .

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    33. mothballs and other chemical repellents don’t work to deter snakes. It’s been proven time and time again..

      the use of mothballs as a snake repellent… being spread outside on the ground is illegal. It poisons the ground and the groundwater…

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    34. Got a Black Racer hanging around all week, deployed mothball perimeter 36 hours ago but still hanging inside perimeter:

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    35. So I buy a bag of cat litter and put moth balls in it ok will do… I noticed then in the cage with my black lab and he barks at them this is only the second time I seen her.. I need something that’s not poisonous to my animal

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    36. i have two black snakes living under a front patio and back patio, i put down snake repellent, will they cross it to com out and go live somewhere else, me and my daughter are afraid, they are just black snakes but i dont want them by my patios. We live by a creek they can go live there.

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    37. I was going to trying to repel this snake in the back yard, but after hearing these animals lovers cry… I think Im going old school and take a hoe to the neck

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    38. Ok I’ve got a snake problem. One was in my house it was about 2 and a half to 3 foot long. I tried to catch him but he got away i put mothballs out im hoping he left out of the same hole he came in on I bought some spray form and closed it up so I’m hoping he’s gone. Also tonight I steped on my porch and there was a small snake. I’m not sure what it was but he striked at me.. I’m think it was a baby cotten mouth.. Could be wrong could be right there is a pond behind me that is on my neighbors land. Idk what I have to do or use I’m going to kill them bastards I hate snakes with a passion. Like I said mothballs in the house I’ll put some in my barn and in my work buliding.. Alone with whatever I can use that’s not to expensive.

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    39. So I bought some snake repellent pellets from Lowes and sprinkled them around and I haven’t seen the snake in 3 weeks so…yay!?

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    40. 1) What about pouring diesel fuel into the exterior holes, lighting a piece of paper and sticking it down into the hole to smoke out the snakes? Illegal, maybe; but the snakes worry me more, alrighty! 2) Then filling the holes with concrete mix to keep them out; 3) then treating the yard with sulfur AND moth balls, as well as the “Snake Away” treatment (or something similar that is recommended? The thing that worries me is the snake holes are near the foundation, but if the lit diesel fuel smolders out and does not flame then that should not create a problem right? Last problem: I live in a gated 0ver-55 condo community in a small villa with villas on both sides. Sounds like I might have to treat their yards too, possibly? Then there is the garage full of storage stuff, so I’ll have to treat it with moth balls AND sulfur? Also, there is a drainage ditch right behind this row of villas, guess I’ll have to treat it TOO? I want RID of these snakes! Waiting for handy advice!!

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    41. I just read that using mothballs to repel snakes is illegal. You must use mothballs as indicated. You should change your information.

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      • 1) What about pouring diesel fuel into the exterior holes, lighting a piece of paper and sticking it down into the hole to smoke out the snakes? Illegal, maybe; but the snakes worry me more, alrighty! 2) Then filling the holes with concrete mix to keep them out; 3) then treating the yard with sulfur AND moth balls, as well as the “Snake Away” treatment (or something similar that is recommended? The thing that worries me is the snake holes are near the foundation, but if the lit diesel fuel smolders out and does not flame then that should not create a problem right? Last problem: I live in a gated 0ver-55 condo community in a small villa with villas on both sides. Sounds like I might have to treat their yards too, possibly? Then there is the garage full of storage stuff, so I’ll have to treat it with moth balls AND sulfur? Also, there is a drainage ditch right behind this row of villas, guess I’ll have to treat it TOO? I want RID of these snakes! Waiting for handy advice!!

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    42. I have a bug man that just found 2 snakes, garder snakes, in my basement, I taped the bottom of the door to seal it. I have a “wet” basement and don’t have the money for a new foundation and attempted to fill in all the holes I could see with the expanding foam, they still came in the basement, I am totally freaked out and am doing my laundry at my boyfriends house now. As I read these posts I am reminded of the family of birds that live in the light on my front porch, now I am petrified to go home….one of the snakes was about 3.5 ft long, and dead but the other was smaller and alive. I need help keeping them out of my house as I am completely TERRIFIED of snakes (and bugs and mice). What if they are in my attic?!?! PLEASE someone tell me how to keep them out of my house and pray that there are no more in my house!!!! I hired someone to mow my lawn cause I saw a small garder snake last year. HELP ME……….

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    43. Please confirm if diesel or magnesium, especially this myth that says if you spray diesel or used car engine oil around the yard the snakes get irritated by their smells and will not hang around. Please confirm if this work. My yard is next to open fields and we frequently see different types of snakes in our area. And the use of manganese I was told it works but I’m not sure of all this. I don’t know moth balls, and what can I get and where, I leave in Johannesburg south Africa.

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    44. I just saw a Scarlet Kingsnake on my back porch slither into the bricks under the door. So nervous it’s going to come inside. Now I’m freaking out and all these posts are making me itch head to toe.

      I sprayed wasp and hornet killer in the hole because it is the only poison I currently have around. But with my luck it will piss him off and he will come inside to get me.

      Tomorrow I’m buying moth balls, traps, a blowtorch, a gun, and wood to board up the doors.

      Or I may just move.

      We’ll see what happens.

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    45. we live in an area with a lot of snakes. we used to put out tons of moth balls, because we always heard they repel snakes. but I know firsthand they don’t! we saw them slithering right over them, not the least bit bothered. if you’re really worried about snakes don’t waste your time using moth balls

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        • I agree! I’m a super spell/grammar nut and spelling and your/you’re, their/there mistakes drive me up the wall. Yet, I am enjoying this site enormously because the culture and nature of the people writing comes through in a very interesting and appealing way. My brother’s tiny little dog (she’s fine) found a copperhead on his back porch this morning (Upstate New York, farm country, the REAL New York!). He has 3 small grandchildren living with him too, so I’m looking for repellents. No sure thing there apparently, but I love this chat!

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    46. I have personally watched large black and king snakes take their nose and push moth balls out of the way to crawl in hole by chicken pins so dont waste ur money on them. Best deterrent is keep all debris piles away from your house, keep ur grass cut low and dont grow high shrubbery around your house. Also if you notice you have mice you will have snakes, so kill the mice and the snakes will leave. Another thing you have to watch for is if you have lot of frogs/toads in ur yard. People tend to get lot of these who water their lawns at night. Copperheads love frogs/toads and will congregate in your yard if you have accessive amounts of them. There has never been a proven snake deterrent out there other than common sense and bunch cats. I prefer the snakes to cats! If you see a blacksnake or kingsnake do not kill it. It will eat any poisonous snake on ur property.

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    47. just try a 22 or a shotgun it will take care of all snake probs and get a cat them suckeres will eat a rattlesnake like noting

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    48. Snakes, I hate to be surprised. then when the slither starts, gives me the willey’s. Mouth balls work pretty well, I always throw several handful’s under the trailer, under the edges of outbuildgs, slowes down the rain from melting them. Mothballs have a smell that is very similar to Amonia, read snake products ingredients, you may find you can buy more under a different product name. I also throws hand fulls under deck, and walkways.

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    49. I am a missionary in Africa and live on a banana plantation. We have Egyptian & King Cobras, also Brown House snakes (poisonous). I get them in the house, garage & yard. Am surrounded by bush, & tall mealies. Out there are pythons, black & green mamba, puff adders, etc, etc. There are not enough moth balls & sulpher in the world to control them. I plant Rue shrubs, rosemary, garlic, onions, every stinking plant I can find. That seems to help. Have seen none this year, thank God.

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    50. when we came back from seven days holiday (having had left two boys home), we were told they killed four baby snakes, some found inside the house! what is the chance the mother snake is inside? we keep a cat but still young. there are unwanted rodents too -rats. Last night though I did not here rats squealing as it has normally been. is it because of the snake is inside?
      How many babies does a snake produce per time?

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    51. Snakes like warm dark places and they come in to find food. I just found one in my bathroom heater. It got in where the gas line comes up from basement. it was a baby. Going to go get moth balls and sulfer pellets.

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      • Place Moth Balls in a plastic or metal box with holes, so your dog would not be able to eat them. It’s the smell of moth balls is what keeps the snakes away. Also try to find the holes where the Snake is possibly nested. Pour boiled water through it and then close with concrete mix.

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    52. My cat was bitten by a brown snake yesterday and is still at the vets racking up a huge bill, lucky we saw the snake and took him straight to a vet otherwise we probably would have lost him.
      Ive cleared my garden of any weeds and cut back undergrowth but still we find a snake. My cat like to catch rabbits, skinks and mice (because they run) then bring them back around the house, what i find i scoop up and put in the bin.
      After reading most of the posts I will try the moth balls in jars to leave around the garden and will also seal up all gaps under doors so i don’t find any inside and just a questions, why do they want to come inside? I have no other pets but my cat. I am very worried about them in the roof where we have birds nesting.
      We tried to kill the snake with a shovel while straddling a fence but it got away in next doors long grass!!! I don’t feel safe in my own home anymore!!
      We haven’t even started summer in Australia yet!! Makes me appreciate the colder months so much more.

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      • did u try mothballs as i just killed a brown snake near my pool and i dont want anymore coming in to my yard as my house backs on to a park, got 2 love aussie summers

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    53. I have personally witnesses on 3 occasions King snakes in FL (non poisonous) quickly dispatching a copper head snake and two eastern diamond back rattler snakes. (Poisonous) Perhaps using a snake to solve your poisonous snake problem is a solution you may consider. I to have awoke with a moccasin snake in my bed with me two times . you all would be surprised at the human body , its range that is, when every neuron and muscles fiber fire and contract at same time ,just a split second before your mind precieves what just occurred.. I am still convinced hat if the wall ten feet from my bed hadn’t been there I would have landed 15 ft away in the adjoining bath room ,off of one leap from a supine position. I now have a four foot king snake on the job at home. It took some getting used to, but I have seen no other critters ,or poisonous snakes back in home . king snakes are of the constrictor class of snakes. They have little problem with killing other snakes, and when one thinks about it really, the perfect food for a snake, is another snake! One note, please note I really don’t like snakes at all , even my buddy BOB the king snake creps me out, but he is extremely effective, and is the lesser of two evils, so to speak. 7/10 when I look forward him for my piece of mind, I find him near water heater. .when hr is not there ,I know he is ON THE JOB. It take a thief to catch a thief good luck all pss for those of you having difficulty sleeping after encounter in home, I slept in a tent in my room for couple of months. And I do very much recommend killing poisonous snakes found in your home and sealing all entry points . I have had BOB for 3 years and he is growing, I have never fed him. Limiting rodents and places for critters to reside is also a must about the homestead.

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      • Sell the house friend, black mambas are deadly and amazingly fast and render many bites at on time. If you start a gofundme account I will donate some to help you to buy a new home…the only other alternative would be hire a professional to catch the snake, perhaps the turtle man…live action!!!

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    54. My neighbor has a lot of old cars and a old boat in his back yard I have had rats,snake’s, & potsoms come in my back yard I am going to do the moult balls I have to be very careful because I have three dogs who will chase & mess with anything that’s moving & sometimes killing them

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      • Thank you I will tell my husband you can never be to careful when it comes to kids And like all kids they will try to catch anything that runs or hops lol

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    55. I hate snakes and have kids who love to be outside I live in the middle of a pasture and seen one snake already it was at my front door idc if its a simple black snake I want it gone I would kill it but it went under my trailer I’m going to try moth balls and sulfur but I’m curious if there’s any plants I can plant that would drive snakes away I was reading and saw that it says mint plants do has anyone tried or know if that works?

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    56. Last year I walked out my front door on the second floor to find a huge snake crawling up the post right outside the front door. He was headed toward all the bats tha live in my attic. Suddenly the bats evacuated. Only half came back this year. We’ve already killed three copperheads here. We blow them up with a shotgun, or blow their heads off and make belts from the rest.

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    57. Sulfur! Repels the snakes and not dangerous to dogs. Mothballs work too(likely because of the sulfur component) but not good for pets and personally the strong smell repels me!

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    58. Buy Snake Away. It is a powder that you sprinkle around the property. It lasts about 3 months. We have seen 2 snakes in 15 years. You can buy it at Lowe’s Wal-Mart Home Depot. It is about $25 per bottle but worth it. One bottle does about an acre.

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      • Twila, do you live in AZ?? We have rattlesnakes come in our fenced in area for the dogs to play in. We are looking at ways to keep the rattlesnakes out of this area.

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    59. The only true way to get rid of snakes is physically removing them, either trapping or killing. Some people and wildlife experts swear by fox urine since fox are natural predators to snakes. You can usually get this online or at many garden centers. HOWEVER, if you live in an area where fox are common, choosing one kind could act as an attractant to them. Red fox urine seems to be the most common available but white fox urine can also be purchased. Since the two tend to avoid one another, mixing them would give you the deterrent to snakes without attracting the unwanted attention of fox in the area.

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    60. The only true way to get rid of snakes is physically removing them, either trapping or killing. Some people and wildlife experts swear by fox urine since fox are natural predators to snakes. You can usually get this online or at many garden centers. HOWEVER, if you live in an area where fox are common, choosing one kind of could act as an attractant to them. Red fox urine seems to be the most common available but white fox urine can also be purchased. Since the two tend to avoid one another, mixing them would give you the deterrent to snakes without attracting the unwanted attention of fox in the area.

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    61. I won’t sleep tonight, or maybe never… And reading this has not helped…
      I live in the foothills of Mt. Lemmon N of Tucson AZ (3500ft), and just let my dog out into the back yard without his usual leash. I happened to walk in front of him and with my flash light happened to saw a large diamond back slithering next to the 2-foot block wall – well that stopped my heart and I thought I would faint because my 14 mo old dog runs after anything that moves. It was 77F and the snake was slow, and my dog was busy sniffing something else. I had to call the fire department to pick it up.
      My neighbor lost his tea cup Yorkie 2 months ago – it just silently vanished from their back yard with no trace. Someone else lost a Morkie puppy (not on a leash) while getting mail from the mail box – a hawk got that one. We have bob cats the size of coyotes, plus packs of coyotes and javelina. I heard a boxer, out with its owner for a walk, was killed by a javelina. Living near open space in AZ can be very dangerous for pets and people don’t get it. And I royally scrwed up by not having my dog on a leash even while I am aware of the dangers.

      Can snakes climb up a 2′ block wall? The snake might have got in from the front of the house where I have just wrought iron fencing.
      It has been raining several times a week during August so will these chemical repellents wash away? And spraying every month sounds like too much work.

      Has anyone had luck with some type of “permanent thing” added to the ground along a fence to make it impossible for snakes to climb over the “thing”?

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      • Sorry to say, snakes can climb up ANYTHING! I just came in and a rat snake dropped down from the top of my screen door. Scared the he-be je-bes out of me. Once a snake finds a trail where mice travel, it’s a loosing battle ridding the area of its’ relatives. I’m filling all the holes I can find leading into the house with that expanding foam.

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    62. I have various snakes that make there way into my lawn. I live on a dead end street that is a marsh at the end so you can imagine the snakes I get. I am going to try the mothballs. They just really pass through and I am grateful they eat all the rodents so they don’t end up in the house. I just don’t want to not see one and get bit. Any really great thing to use rather than mothballs?

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    63. Strap it to a rocket and make it someone elses problem. Better yet waterproof firecracker light it and put inside mouse that snake will eat.. Instant gratification with a big mess..lol

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    64. If the snake goes in a hole in the basement etc., mix a fair quantity of bleaching powder, say 1/2 a kg in half bucket of water and put this where the snake is hiding. Now stand away and see the snake rush out in a min or two. Second one ca use kerosene oil. The creatures hate it. Just a cap fill of a can will do wonders.

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    65. If you use mothballs do not toss them out or around randomly. Put them in a box, jar with holes in the top. A knee-hi stocking works well if you put them in the toe of the stocking and tie a knot in it. When you want to move them or remove them, and you will because they stink, it is much easier when they are contained.
      A friend sprinkled them in his attic and now his whole house smells like mothballs. There was no way to pick them all up in the insulation.

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    66. I have an 10 x 12 shed in which I keep my mower in, I can’t keep the field mice out of it and because of that I cannot keep the snakes out. I have sealed every crack I can see daylight from inside and out. The only place is under the bottom of the door, I even placed a door sweep on it but still they are finding a way in. I tried the moth ball thing and I do believe it just mutated the snakes. I placed several metal boxes with several 1/4 inch holes drilled in them about every 2-3 feet apart around the building with 1/4 holes drilled in them. After about 2 weeks I found a snake skin right up against on of the box and across another. Someone said to put lime down and it will burn them and they won’t crawl through it. I covered the floor (which is concrete) and that just created a mess to clean up when I discovered the slithering tracks right through it. I finally came to a conclusion that the only way to get rid of a snake is to burn the building down. They are only black snakes and I know they are harmless, but I still hate a snake and don’t want to walk in the shed and one drop down around my neck. Because of snakes is why winter is my favorite time of year.

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      • We have a place in TN, the comment was made that you can build on a snake path. They go in the same paths. We think one couple moved because they had built a beautiful home and were constantly killing snakes! Also we have a Rat Terrier, she always alarms me when a snake is in our yard. I use what we call ‘loppers’ which are used to cute small limbs from trees. They have a 2′(?) distance from you and the snake. The last one I got it as close to the head as I could while my dog had it distracted. I am from the South also and the only good snake is a dead one!!! Chop the head off people! !!!!

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    67. i have seen people. Living in deserts where snakes are in overwhelming and poisonous they hang onions on all 4corner of their bed
      I understand all guys are talking are talking about their houses i just thoght it might help for someone

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    68. I am not sure how to distinguish between male and female Copperhead. However, there may be more of them in the same hole where they have nested. If the wood pile is not stacked, do it vertically upright. Clear the clutter, old scattered wood, leaves, stones etc. Find the holes in the area. Bring some concrete mix (Home Depot sells them for less than $5 for 80 pond-bag), keep some boiled water by the side to pour on them if you find them coming out. Fill the concrete mix and sprinkle some cold water over the mix to get it solidify. Usually there will be more than one hole exit for the nest – close all of it. Leave some Moth balls around the area – snakes hate the smell of it and would not come back.

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    69. We just killed a 3ft. Copperhead in the woods pile how can we tell if it’s a make or female it’s fangs are about 1/2 inch long, grandkids all ways walk past it need a good remedy please

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    70. My 9month old german shepherd just got bit by a copperhead some where in the backyard (hell, could’ve been anywhere in the yard).. Pup is fine now, but worried about a loose copperhead some where in the yard (which has a pool and a ton of ivy-perfect for a nap under the shade huh).. I hear moth balls work but I have a curious shepherd on my hands… was thinking of putting some in jars with holes cut in the top around the yard.. Any other ideas that would work to get rid of an unwanted snake without adding “ingesting poison” to an already hefty vet bill. :/

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      • Place Moth Balls in a plastic or metal box with holes, so your dog would not be able to eat them. It’s the smell of moth balls is what keeps the snakes away. Also try to find the hole where the Copper head is possibly nested. Pour boiled water through it and then close it with concrete mix.

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        • Thank you so much.. And as much as I would like to find the hole where it could possibly nested, we also have a mole problem (if the snake hasn’t gotten to it yet) and we have holes every where but I will definitely keep the boiling water and cement in mind.. Thanks again!

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    71. What you see is not snake spit. It is a bug that does that. Snakes don’t have saliva. And moth balls do work for snakes, rabbits, racoon’s, rats, and for just about anything that has a high sense of smell and taste.

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      • I have rats squirrels and even had a raccoon in attic last winter raccoon had babies . found a skin shed hanging from hole by dryer vent and a couple days later went to step out back door and there it was by step . l liked to had a heart attack I did scream my head off . I call my brother and he killed it .but my back neighbor has a low swampy place that they are coming from this is 2nd one killed this week in neighborhood and one killed a pitbull last summer . . I would petition city to have him fill in low area but he is rich doctor and in a nobody. So hopefully one of his grand doesn’t run up on one. Anyway just had to gripe to somebody Lol. I would try mothballs but have dog that goes out in fenced yard to do her thing. Can’t pay exterminator. Cause just old lady on social security.

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    72. the best thing i personally done in the past for snakes problems around my farm is,get some mesh gloves at your local hardware store,they don’t have to be expensive but not so cheap either.find the snake hole or where the snake usually hides or lives.grab the snake carefully possible..than lay the snake on it’s back and tickle the hell out of the snake…this will make the snake to be tickled to death..and the snake won’t even will try to came back for some more of that.this will cause stomach cramping as hiccups also and eventually cause it to die..

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    73. Some of these comments are hysterical, why can t people just give a straight forward answer?? Ok so does anyone know if the moth ball and cat litter mix works, and is this dangerous to dogs?? I need something 100% effective and safe for a very curious puppy!! TIA

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      • Moth balls mixed with kitty litter killed my cat. My stepfather put mothballs in the kitty litter he put under his car on the carport for oil drips. The cats, (others in neighborhood also) of course used the litter as a cat box. He thought the mothballs would deter them. Nope. My healthy cat became sick and died within a couple of months, and it was a painful process, and we did not know what was wrong for a long time. Since dogs often eat things and mothballs are poison to humans and animals, I would not use them.

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    74. Found a copperhead in my daughter’s room up on the curtain rod behind the curtains !! We got it out to a pasture across the rd but do the liquid repellents work? I Do Not want a repeat visitor, especially since my daughter’s have guinea pigs and rats as pets and this snake was posionous!!! Help! Will it come back due to the rodent pets we have?! Scared for everyone’s safety! Thanks

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      • Really? having guinea pigs and mice is like having a buffet in your house for snakes. Get rid of the critters or expect more visitors.

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      • You need to search your entire house and find any holes or cracks. It got in somehow. If you need some holes (like dryer vents and whatnot) cover them with heavy mesh so nothing can get in. And kill those when they come in.

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      • Just curious, if you didn’t want it to come back, why didn’t you kill it? It will kill you or your daughter if it bites either of you. Don’t just turn them loose so they can come back in your house!! That’s just crazy and asking for trouble!

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    75. I hear wasp spray will kill sbake if you shoot the spray in its face. ..has to get in its eyes, nose or on tongue. Snake will die in 45 min to an hour. Spider spray supposedly works too.

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      • I have used that and the snake went back into the wall and died… and you do not have to be close as most wasp spray shoots about 10+ feet….

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    76. I own a house on a wooded acre. I have fought water bugs, wolf spiders, mice, and now I have a snake living under my washer. I saw the skin and poop. It is the second time I have found a skin this week. Had pest control for the other problems but can’t find any help with the snakes. I just bought this house. I am terrified every nite when I go to bed. I need HELP. I have small grandchildren who can’t spend the nite….

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      • Walmart sells big sticky traps for snakes. I use them for rodents, but you have to be careful that nothing else comes in contact with it. They are very sticky and black, so they are hard to see. You might put it behind the washer.

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      • Simple.just sprinkle some petroleum diesel around the house no more snakes for weeks.better still since they hate smoke, try burning an old car tyre in a fire pit.

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    77. Get a snake charmer from India they’ll catch n take them away. Check the news they caught more than a 100 snakes including poisonous ones from the Tirunelveli Medical college. We don’t deal with poisons or temporary solutions. Just call the snake charmer and the snakes go with him 😉

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      • First of all,India is not a snake charmer’s country as the stupid press would like to portray, here in the west. It is natural to have snakes of various species in tropical countries. If you are unsure,please take a short vacation in neighboring Costa Rica or Panama. The common strategy I have seen in the countryside to deter snakes is to use kerosene or gasoline (not inside the house for obvious reasons).

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        • India is the birthplace of snake charmers actually and pouring kerosene or gasoline on the ground is illegal and toxic.

          I hope you were kidding, however just in case anyone takes your advice I had to refute it.

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    78. I just watched mythbusters. 21 snakes and mothballs did not deter them. Red pepper did not bother them much either.

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    79. I have a garter snake under my deck . There is no way I can get under the deck to put anything there for it to leave . So what can I do ?

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      • Snakes hate smoke. Keep a safe fire pit and let it smoke rather than a fire going. Do this frequently once a week and snakes will leave the area and won’t come back. One natural ingredient it hates is garlick. Crush some garlick and mix in water – sprinkle it in the area once a week.

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      • I’d just leave it. It won’t hurt anyone. We used to play with them as kids. And they eat those big grasshoppers and such that might eat up your gardens.

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    80. Was @ my parents place yesterday & my youngest son was going inside he almost stepped on a rattlesnake we are wondering is there a safe & natural way (other than killing it) 2 keep it & others away? We tried safely catching it but it got away, im just worried th@ some1 wont see it & get bitten. Thanks any & all answers are welcome..

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        • A Diamond back back struck my German Shepard 4 times 2grand later he barely made it ,kill them all. It would have killed my 2yr old grandson

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          • I had a rattler bite my 6 lb yorkie and he barely survived, but did make it. The mothballs really didn’t deter because I killed 4 last year…I will try the sulfur thing

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        • I use snake-away, and it works really good, my neighbors have a old shed in their yard that their nesting under, and they won’t get rid of it. So I paved my patio and my backyard

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    81. For years I been the moth ball and sulfur thing. For same strange reason I seen more snake spit this year around my house. Even after a I put out moth balls and sulpher. What’s really going on. I did put out some snake repellent that I brought from Tractor Supply. It has a very strong cinnamon smile to it. Do this work?

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      • I have heard Moth balls are a myth. I have heard three things copius amounts of cinnamon sprinkled around house at floor level you have to buy it in Bulk I’m talking excessive mounds of cinnamon and the other is buy some pigs pigs will eat them and impervious to snake bites

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        • The third is fire or fire pit ashes they even say while camping to put down Ashes around your domicile that they will not cross it

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          • I don’t know about the smoke or the ashes, but cowboys used to put a rope around their camping site the prickley kind, because snakes do not like the feel on their skin and won’t cross it.

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            • Hence, many say use a “dummy snake” or “snake scarecrow”. The rope thing says snakes won’t crawl over a rope. But what if there’s already hidden snakes, won’t you be enclosing it in?

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        • Moth balls are not a myth, but you do need to make a mixture of moth balls and kitty litter and it works very well.

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              • i need help four days ago husband took a two ft rat snake out of my daughters closet, this is the first time ive had a snake ever in my house, i am PETRIFIED of snakes, does the moth ball an kitty litter really work????? i grew up with my grandmother telling me that mothballs work(never mention kitty litter w/ it) an to spread terpentine around yard cause it burns their belly an they cant cross it

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            • Its a clay or sand mix you purchase at any where you can buy pet food. It is intended for use for cat to “potty” in.

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        • I gathered a dozen moths and never found their balls to use against snakes, any other cures ? Maybe they were not male.

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      • Snakes do not have salivary glands. “Snake spit” is produced by a type of leaf hopper. They are the larvae or nymphs of this insect inside the “spittle”.

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    82. I was working at a job mowing lawns. then 2 ppl came into my work area and sprayed a product called deter… aluminium sulfate. I then had to continue snipping wet product on lawn and few hrs later I broke out in a rash on 90% of my body. I was wearing full protective gear for landscaping. 95% or my body was covered. PLEASE HELP ASAP.

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      • Dude, Aluminium sulfate is toxic….and corrosive……wash with alot of soap and seek medical help…….they should never of had you working with that, it’s on the right to know list

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        • I just saw your response to Kermit and that he it was 9 months after he posted: I am hoping for two things, one that he has bathed since his post and two that he didn’t wait for your post to seek medical help….I wonder if he made it?!!!!

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    83. Hi, there’s a red belly black snake in the roof of my house. The house is two story and tiled roof . The snake was sighted with a green frog in it’s mouth in the gutter of the first floor and went back under the tiles. How do we get this unwanted visitor out of this confined space in our house?

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    84. Great website,just found a sand snake in front of my main door an we didn’t kill it but instead my hubby carried it an tossed it out into the garden. Really scary an not my favorite thing to have near my kid.
      Thanks for the tips will surely use it

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    85. I just saw a snake trying to get out of a hole outside of my garage .He went back inside when he saw me ; how can I get rid of the snake.The hole is in the brick on the outside of my house

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        • The formaldehyde in Moth balls causes CANCER!!!!! Research it for yourself. What is the point in repelling snakes with moth balls, if their use will kill you?

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          • Do you really think our government would allow Moth Balls to be sold in stores if they were so dangerous and cancer causing. Sure if you chocolate coat them and put a bowl out for company, they can cause some illness, but keeping them in your grandma’s cedar chest is no issue. Drop a few down the snake hole and put a rock over it. If you are going to drop the Moth Balls down the hole and then lay on the ground to sniff it, you have bigger issues to deal with. However, if we could get snakes addicted to cigarettes….they would die of cancer. Problem solved.

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            • Formaldehyde is not in mothballs. Do the research, but really, just think about it. You use formaldehyde to preserve things, not kill them. It wouldn’t kill a snake, and I highly doubt it would deter them from your yard. The misconception that mothballs drive snakes away is actually misleading. Sure, the smell is not pleasant, but a determined snake is not going to be driven away by a couple mothballs.

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          • So does everything in the state of California LOL the homeowner putting some snake repellent that contains formaldehyde it’s not going to cause cancer.

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            • I have no proof of correlation, but I put moth balls around my deck to get rid of snakes and now my dog has bladder cancer. Just something to ponder.

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              • Is your dog and ourside dog or an inside & outside dog? We are looking into using mothballs due to we have quite alot of snake coming close to house.

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          • My grandmother allways used moth balls in her closet and in between her clothes and she lived a long life. She passed away after 90 out of old age.

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          • I grew up w/moths’ balls, & when bad language was used we were ‘punished’ w/them. To this day I still enjoy the scent & it’s never hurt me or any of my kids.

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          • What research are you talking about? My research says that no body knows about its causing cancer. I guess you ARE SPREADING UNKNOWN CANCER.

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            • My Dad used moth balls around the house, garages, storage buildings, etc. as we were growing up and kept up this practice when we moved to three other places. I have since kept using them even when I owned my own home in Ga. and since moving back to NC, as soon as it starts getting warm, I faithfully throw out moth balls outside the storage buildings, around the perimeters of the house, the crawl space underneath the house, along side the ditch/creek near the house ,across on my neighbors land on the side & back of my house where there are lots of trees, shrubs, foliage, etc. They have worked so far for all these years and my Dad passed at 90, mom still living and so far , so good. No cancer yet for my parents, thank GOD!I will say I will start using the gloves and mask when throwing them out from now on just as a precautionary measure.

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        • I have a long unanswered question no-one seems to know the answer to and since my Dad is gone, I can’t ask him. When it rains, does it wash away the scent that prevents the snakes,pests, etc from coming? After every heavy rain, I have been putting out more moth balls and it’s affecting my pocket book! Lol HELP

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          • Yes that’s exactly why there’s no point to using mothballs anywher it rains. Mothballs specifically state use in cool dry conditions. You are supposed to keep them in a tight sealed container and the fumes that leak out will kill the moths. You do NOT use them in an open environment. They will KILL any small animal that eats them. Which is probably why they work against snakes -they are simply killing the small mice that the snakes eat. People always talk about snake problems. actually you don’t have a snake problem you likely have a rodent problem. If you get rid of the snakes without adressing the rodents, you will soon be overrun with rodents.

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      • I just read up on it and saw moth balls are a good deterrant…I am going to try this for my own snake problem. Hope it works.

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          • I have pets & to protect the environment so they don’t seep into soil place into plastic bottles and poke holes so odor seeps through.. Place cap back on bottle & put in desired area…

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        • Why do people have to get into a pissing fight over whether snakes should live or die poisonous snakes can kill us we need to deter them I’m going with the mothballs

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          • if you love snakes so much, have you considered buying or catching all the snakes in the USA, so you can protect them, love them, pat them & kiss them ??

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          • People have made festivals of killing Rattle Snakes in the South to the extreme of causing near extinction in some States of the Eastern Diamond Back Rattle Snakes. A snake that serves a purpose in the right place just as God created it to do. I will make my EDBR go to the woods to catch rodents.

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            • I live in the South and I believe in ” the only good snake is a dead snake!” For all the people who think the rattlesnakes are extinct, just maybe YOU ARE LOOKING IN THE WRONG PLACE!!!!!!

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              • You ain’t kiddin son I live on the mtn in Tennessee and there’s rattlesnakes killed everyday until winter and multiples at that.. It’s been this way my entire life and it’ll always be this way.. Copperhead is just as bad also and it wouldn’t hurt my feelings one damn bit to see them all extinct and dead.. I’m sure there’s another animal thats safer than a no good snake that can do its job and I rather see that animal any day of the week than a damn snake

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                • IF ANYONE THINKS A SNAKE SHOULD LIVE,THEN YOU CLEARLY HAVE NEVER BEEN NEAR A SNAKE.I SAY KILL EVERY SNAKE YOU SEE.IF YOU DO YOU MIGHT JUST BE SAVING SOMEONES LIFE OR SOMEONES PET…….

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                  • Ridiculous….garden snake, king snakes, black snakes, ava other garden varieties duck the human race a favor by one keeping mice and other rodents at bay, but primarily if you have kings and black snakes on your property the poisonous variety will less likely be on your property ava if they do…the king and black willl kill it!

                    Dang, educate yourself.

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                    • Thanks Todd. I’m with ya. Love the king snakes. Just trying to keep them out of my daughter’s hen house.

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                • You’re invading the snakes habitat. They live there just as much as you, and while I believe that some more dangerous snakes (I.e -. Venomous ones) need to be deterred from where people live to keep both us and the snakes safe I think that all snakes being extinct is a terrible idea. If your state had no snakes it would be overrun by rats mice and other rodents that snakes control the population of rodents in an area and sure there are other animals that do this job, but they’re all adapted to kill and eat rats too, making them dangerous to pets too, also, the rattlesnake roundups are horribly cruel and used to exploit these massively misunderstood snakes because they may be venomous but they kill very few people a year and are being hunted to endangerment in some areas people are posing for photos with these snakes after they’ve had their mouths sewn shut and fangs cruelly ripped out, that’s just in humane.

                  Sincerely the concerned owner of a royal python.

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                  • Do you hear yourself, Arianne? Your telling these folks off for not wanting to have snakes around and acting like you have such respect for them as a Python owner. So guess your python isn’t out doing it’s job for nature caged up in your home now is it? Ever think that your python is just waiting for its opportunity to get away and be free in the outdoors from your cage? Little knowledge you have to be homing such a creature against it’s nature. Live by the sword die by the sword.

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                  • Today a large floida snake was in my home as an unwanted guest.I watch it leave.i hate snakes.i threw things at it and yelled at it.snake hater is me!.

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                    • Ouuuuuuu me too! I hate them, they are so creepy, had one in my house at midnight last night! Woke people up in 2 states with my screaming and yelling!

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              • From the Appalachia, the part also under ol’ Dixie…most of us feel the same…you ever looked closely in the eyes of a copperhead? That’s an evil looking critter.
                Yeh, a lot of us Appalachian folk are fanatics. We have two different groups that represent this fanaticism on both ends of the spectrum….we have one group that plays with deadly snakes to prove protection by a deity or we have the other group that stomps the shit out of all of them in the name of the same deity.

                Since, I hate the sneaky, maiming dangerous critters with a passion..I follow the latter. Genesis 3:15.

                Just FYI…none of the above solutions, work for copperheads..there is actually no proven repellant for copperheads at this time.

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                • Copperheads normally come out to hunt at night and sleep during the day. Don’t let your dog or kids play in the yard at night or roll around in the leaves or play on the wood pile during the day. Keep your dogs on the porch or in the house. Get a couple of cats…..if they get bit and die trying to kill the snakes, that is their duty and obligation in the animal world.

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                • Best repellant for copperheads is a King Snake!

                  Leave him alone on your property and the copperhead will most likely stay away or die!

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                • I also live in South Florida. Just moved to a new apartment and have seen a snake 3 times already in the garden in front of my door, and I’ve only been here 2 weeks. This makes me believe that it’s living there.
                  Is your product working,many if so, where can I purchase some?

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              • So totally agree with you, lived in our home for 16yrs. but with road construction near by, have seen 3 large MS water snakes in the last 2 weeks. looking for ways to keep them out of my yard, thanks for all the ideas.

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              • I HAVE AN UNGODLY FEAR OF SNAKES AND I AGREE THE ONLY GOOD SNAKE IS A DEAD SNAKE DOESN’T MATTER HOW BIG OR HOW SMALL SNAKE IS A SNAKE. WE LIVE IN THE COUNTRY OF EAST TEXAS AND THE COPPER HEAD IS ONE BAD SNAKE. NEIGHBORS ARE JUST BEGINNING TO SEE THEM ALREADY BECAUSE OF THE HEAT HERE IN TEXAS. I KEEP THE OUTSIDE AROUND THE FOUNDATION LOADED WITH GRANULES OF POISON SO HOPE WE DON’T FIND ANY IN OUR GARAGE.

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            • Apparently you’ve never been to Texas. It’s big and full of huge deadly diamond back and timber rattlers, not to mention the copperheads, water moccasins and coral snakes. If you are from up North or California I wouldn’t recommend moving to Texas……way to dangerous. I won’t even bring up the scorpions and blood sucking insects, Bobcats, cougars, alligators and the danger from the sky, hawks and eagles that love the taste of poodle. My family has been stuck in this hell hole called Texas for generations….shot a six foot long snake in the chicken house yesterday…..Beware and stay away…..way to dangerous. So cancel that U-haul or think about moving to Washington state…..youd’ve have at least two or three weeks of really nice weather a year up there.

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            • You need to do your research. Rattle snakes are no where near extinction. I see them everywhere in Texas. They are the most common snake in many states. These snakes do have a purpose, to kill rodents, but they also kill children, and grown men all the time. If they are on my property, I will kill them. It’s call justified because it is to protect my family. I don’t agree with killing any animal for sport. I’m a vegan so I don’t kill for food. But when it comes to protecting my family, any posionous animal or insect must go.

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        • Iv tried moth balls even put them in the hole obviously there den and did nothing they moved them and continue to come in and out

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          • Yes we have used them also n they slide right over them and not bother by the smell or touch. What else can be used. We have to many to count. N big n fat . they come every spring n stay all summer n r very aggressive..

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        • But If You Have Any Pet’s Mothballs Can Make Them Very Sick And Could Possably Kill Them,So You Want To Be Careful Putting Down Mothballs.

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          • I grew up with moth balls my mother used to throw them in the heat ducts they never bothered us and they sure don’t bother the snakes because we have them in the backyard every spring they come out and stay all summer they are not bothered by the moth balls I’ve tried hair from the hair brush WHITCH that works better and they’re very aggressive and bite. No there not poisonous but it’s nothing worse than getting bit from a snake and having them chase you in the yard.. Staten Island N.Y. We keep our yard very clean.. Please help us..

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            • If those snakes are returning every year in Spring and Summer, probably they are hibernating in the area burrows (holes). They are cold blooded which means their blood freezes up inside them in the winter so they hibernate in their burrows.
              Clear the clutter, old scattered wood, leaves, stones etc. Find the holes in the area. Bring some concrete mix (Home Depot sells them for less than $5 for 80 pond-bag), keep some boiled water by the side to pour on them if you find them coming out. Fill the concrete mix and sprinkle some cold water over the mix to get it solidify. Usually there will be more than one hole exit for the nest – close all of it. Leave some Moth balls around the area – snakes hate the smell of it and would not come back. Snakes hate smoke. Keep a safe fire pit and let it smoke rather than a fire going. Do this frequently once a week and snakes will leave the area and won’t come back. One natural ingredient it hates is garlic. Crush some garlic and mix in water – sprinkle it in the area once a week. I hear peeled Onions keep them away as well.

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            • My problem is snakes in my back yard and I mean alot there is a small Creek bed most non poison green or black snake blue racers that are every where but I live in South East Missouri we have cottonmouth rattlesnake and the one that bit me copperhead I am scared to death of any of them and know personally how sick u get I have a special needs son and very little money I do live in town and have only seen non poison one but don’t want any in my yard please help

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              • Did you ever find anything that worked for you and getting rid of snakes? I too live in Missouri and have that problem.

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                • The bobblehead owls you can order online for $19.99 work like a charm.. Put one in front yard and one in back and you’ll never see another snake on your property again.. their eyes glow and everything like a real owl and I just stuck mine on a fencepost so it’s head can work it’s way all the way around and haven’t seen another snake yet.. been 2yrs now snake free and I live on a mtn in Tennessee

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                    • Most snakes have poor long distance eye sight and hunt using not only limited sight, but smell. Might as well perch some of those plastic pink flamingos around your yard. Won’t do anything about the snakes but they will aggravate and keep pesky neighbors away. The plastic owls do keep other birds like pigeons away, so take down your bird feeders.

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                • I had a snake living in my garage last year. When I found it I made a mixture of sulfur, cinnamon oil and clove oil. I sprayed in where I last saw him and he came out. I killed him with a shovel. Worked like a charm.

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              • My friends grand child got bit by one on there patio and died he was 2 yes old. He puts moth ballx and kitty litter in a bottle and pokes holes in it And they have not seen any since best of luck I am also trying it we have a 2 yr old and a 7 yr old.

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              • Get a couple of cats and don’t feed them much. Make them earn their keep. Give them only a small bowl of food on Sundays in Thanksgiving for clearing your yard of snakes.

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            • You’re worried about a snake in NY? Lol it can’t hurt you and the only reason it may act like it is because you’re trying to kill it. Stop being a pussy

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      • At least yours is in the garage!.I put my phone on my bedside table this am and thought I knocked something off. When I got up to look, I saw it was a snake. It was less than a foot away from my hand. While I was looking for something to get it with, it crawled off. No sign yet, but looked like chicken snake. Really hope so. May sleep in the van tonight with my puppy. If it does bite me, no matter what kind it is, it will be the heart attack that gets me. Wish me good hunting.

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        • That is horrible but I have to admit I was laughing pretty hard as I read your comment..thank god I’ve never had one in my house. Hope you find it!! I’d be sleeping outside to..

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        • I know how you feel I live in Delaware in a very old farm house in middle of fifty acre farm I was in my living room went to get up and take shower and stretched. along my base board was a black snake over three feet long I beat its head in with a metal broom I about lost it and it’s such gross feeling searched the house on clue how it got in six months prior I had one in my kitchen I keep my house very clean iam trying mothballs everything else now

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        • I had a similar experience….

          Several summers ago, I had came in from work around 6pm, went to take a shower.. after getting out of shower.. I had my clothes laid out on sink, was slowly getting dressed..brushing hair, teeth.. that kind of thing.

          as I was finishing up the normal post shower bathroom tasks… I went to grab my wallet and belt….as I picked my belt up, I realized it wasn’t my belt at all …it squirmed…it was a snake. I, frantically threw it across the bathroom..it landed with a thud and slithered behind water heater in closet. (yes, when realized I had grabbed a snake..i truly did about have a heart attack)
          The next day at work…during lunch I ran into a friend who practiced vetinary medicine. He didn’t believe me, when I told him it was close to 5 foot and believed it to be a racer snake..he said that would be record size for that species and was more than likely common blacksnake.
          When I told him I didn’t care what it was, I wanted it gone by any means necessary- my plan was extermination…After a speech about there importance in wildlife ecology.. he agreed to come over, do a capture and release of the critter to spare it from my wrath.

          Well, he did manage to capture the snake after about two hours and getting bit twice. it was confirmed to be a southern black racer of phenomenal size at 69 inches. Due to its unusual size, my friend actually gave the snake to a gratuitous herpetologist at our local university.

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          • I had a he same thing but went to grab my wallet thought it was a snake, but it is was only a politician and after getting hit twice, I surrendered my wallet.

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        • Gail. If you don’t have chickens, rats or a huge population of insects, I’d try to find out what it is eating inside the house. Maybe rent a herd of cats. Personally, I’d burn the house down and leave in the van.

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          • Yes, different seasons, time of the year, their environment and diet ..can affect some of its metallic sheen..which changes the perception of color, slightly.
            so it is possible for copperheads to look grayish, sometimes….but more than likely, as others suggested just a juvenile rat snake..

            true identification is the head..the copperhead is a viper and all vipers have really flat, wide heads with devilish looking eyes and a very angry looking brow. A rat snakes head would be narrow and not much wider than its body, kind of round in height and its eyes are very round like most reptiles. If you still aren’t sure when looking at it ,my advice would be……kill ’em all and let God sort ’em out.

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          • I had a friend come over to remove some trees hanging too close to mobile home with hurricane Matthew was approaching. The Carolina. Leland nc area.after he had finished I went to the corner of my house near the Ac unit and while looking up at the trees he had cut back .all of. Sudden it felt like someone stuck something in the side of my right foot n then a burning painful sensation I looked to my left foot n there was a copperhead crawling away .I panicked but soon remembered to calm myself jihad my cell in hand so I called 911 and it took them almost 30 mins to arrived .they were at the hops Er with a deceased female all they did was. Give me pain meds and tetanus shot n stayed over nite. Full of pain meds. Hurting like nothing I have ever felt i wanted to cut my foot off pain meds 5 injections n nothing worked till 5am nxt morning and this happened around noon the day before. Snake got away. My grand are always in yard how do I get rid of these creatures foot n leg still swollen n painful “”still scared im not healing “”” will see my Dr on October 11 2016 happen. On thurs noon day

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      • Insert sulfur balls inside and seal the hole. Hope the snake dies or you remove the seal after a few hours the snake will run out drowsy. Easy to kill.

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      • How did you know the snake was a “he”. Might have been a female laying eggs in your wall. I’d be looking for babies, soon.

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      • We have enough people here to gather together and take turns ridding our property of all snakes. We can all start here at my house in Virginia and then mov on from there to the next person. I will host a cookout for all of you.

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