If you have a fear of snakes, this article is not for you. If rattlesnakes are an issue in your neck of the woods, then read on to learn how to stay safe. There are many myths out there about how to get rid of these pesky reptiles but it’s important to know that they can’t be killed with just one method. In order to get rid of them, we need three things: time (to wait them out), traps / live capture cages and patience (to lure them into the trap).
The first step is finding where they’re hiding by looking for their tracks or droppings around water sources like ponds or creeks.
Here are some helpful tips on how you can remove this unwanted guest from your property.
Seal any gaps under your house
Take a walk around your house and look for any crack or gaps in the wood or concrete. These small openings make great habits for rattlesnakes. Fill any gaps larger than 1/4 inch (0.64cm) with a filler like expanding foam.
Clean up your yard so that rattlers won’t have a place to live
Remove any possible hiding spots for snakes and by tearing down any places where they could build a nest. Including old and unattended vehicles or boats, mounds or branches, sticks and leaves.
Keep rodents out of your yard by removing their food sources
Snakes are carnivores and primarily eat small mammals like rats and mice. If your yard is rodent free, snakes won’t longer looking for a meal. The best plan is to remove the food that mice and rats eat.
Mow weeds and grasses in your backyard to destroy the snake habitat
If your yard is full of high grass and large patches of weeds, it will attract snakes. To keep snakes away, mow your lawn regularly and keep weeds trimmed.
Mulch with sharp materials
Spread holly leaves, pine cones, rock chips, eggshells, rose bush clippings and other uncomfortable to slither over materials in the areas that you want to keep snakes out of. For example, your vegetable garden and the flower beds right up against the house.
Call the Fire Department
In cities with a lot of poisonous snakes, some local fire department services will provide venomous snake removal if they are available.
