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Hernando Today

Snakes? Deterrent Tips To Keep Them Away

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By STEVE JONES

Special to Hernando Today

Published: August 24, 2008

Perhaps you enjoyed "Snakes on a Plane" as an entertaining movie. But it's a whole lot less fun when it's snakes in your home's foundation, as this reader discovered.

QUESTION: "How does one get rid of snakes without poisoning pets? The snakes are around the house foundation and we believe they are Racers." - Teresa Finch
ANSWER: According to the Web site www.snakesandfrogs.com "Black Racers are slender black snakes of adult size from 30 to 60 inches in length. They are called 'racers' because they are active, fast moving snakes. Usually, these snakes quickly slither to the safety of thick grass or brush when encountered. If cornered or grasped, they will bite viciously in defense." However, they are not venomous.

As you might guess, snakes generally go where there is a food source. Chances are that they are eating rats, mice, frogs and large insects, and the black racers also eat poisonous snakes.

When it comes to snakes, and most other unwanted critters for that matter, prevention is the best cure. Limit the habitat and food source for the snakes' prey and you reduce the likelihood that snakes will take up residence once those tasty rodents and insects are scarce.

Here are some quick and simple ways to achieve this:

Keep the area around you house mowed. Tall grass invites small rodents and insects.

Trim or prune excessively dense or overgrown shrubs for the same reason.

Be sure that garbage containers are covered.

Remove all brush and stone piles that would attract rodents.

Patch all holes into the foundation or crawl space of your house, including drain pipes.

We live way out in the country where most of the adjoining property isn't cleared off, and outside cats and large dogs have pretty much kept snakes away from the immediate area around the house.

Here's an idea you might want to consider. Water soluble granulated sulfur can be spread over the yard and watered-in to keep fleas and tick under control, but I have also read where it will keep snakes at bay as well. Check your hardware store or farmers' co-op for a supply source. If you do decide to use granulated sulfur, it's essential to read and follow the manufacturer's instructions and avoid inhaling the dust.

The Plant Man is here to help. Send your questions about trees, shrubs and landscaping to steve@landsteward.org and for resources and additional information, or to subscribe to Steve's free e-mailed newsletter, visit www.landsteward

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