Outdoor Pest Control - Snakes... Why did it have to be snakes???

We moved into our current home last April. In May, I discovered that we had a MAJOR snake infestation, with 3 snake nests in our back yard- 1 under the fence, 1 under a dead tree that we removed, and 1 between the siding and basement slab on the back of our house. We were easily able to deal with the 2 outside nests, but struggled all year with the one 'in' the house. As the snakes weren't penetrating the inside of the house, animal control wouldn't help.

Over the course of last summer we killed or removed 35+ garter snakes from our small back yard. By August we weren't seeing them around the yard, but I'm paranoid. I'm very afraid we didn't get all of them, and there is another infestation gestating in the wall of my house, waiting to hatch this spring.

Snake-Away was smelly, but was ineffective for us.

What do you recommend to help me deal with the snakes if they come back? We live in northern Colorado. TIA.

ever consider a mongoose for a pet?

I too was looking for a snake removal, trap, or deterrent. about the only thing that seemed to be successful (I have not utilized it, just from the readings and success rates) was sticky snake traps. The problem is they are not useful where they will get wet.

If I were you, I would consider removing enough siding to see if there are snakes lurking there.

also be aware; if the snakes are that common in your area, there may very well be many more nests very close to your property and would easily travel across your property and maybe even establish a new home there.:eek:


semper vigilant

As long as there is food for them, the snakes will come back.

Animal Control will not remove snake infestation in wall voids. Call an exterminator!

Good point about eliminating food sources. A regular residual insecticide spray on foundation and on soil 10-15 feet out from foundation tends to keep most insects and their predators at bay. If there are insects, there will be frogs and lizards among other predators upon which snakes feed. Seal all gaps and possible entries where snakes enter. Clean up the landscape, eliminating debris and nesting sites for wildlife upon which snakes will feed. Remove pet food dishes and birdfeeders that attract rodents upon which snakes will feed. Keep grass cut short. Eliminate standing water in the landscape that may attract frogs, lizards, etc.

"killed or removed 35+ harmless snakes"

Now what do you do with all the mice?

fred

i had good results with snakeaway ,at hardware stores.