It's unlikely you want to be one of those statistics, so how can you deter snakes? Do snake repellers and snake deterrents really work?
N.B. These tips and tricks do not guarantee prevention or safety from any snakes. Please always be vigilant around snakes or other reptiles.
Let's take a look.
How to deter snakes
The most effective way to deter snakes is by using sound or smell. Snakes feel threatened by sounds that have loud vibrations, while strong smells such as vinegar, ammonia and essential oils are an irritant to snakes.
Snakes detect sound through vibration – it's how they locate prey and is also how they detect hazards and risks. If the vibration is loud enough they'll perceive it as a threat and stay away. It's this premise that most solar and battery powered snake deterrents are based on.
By emitting ultrasonic vibrations into the ground, snake repellents send a message to the reptile that there's a threat nearby – which keeps them at bay.
What do snakes hate the most?
While vibration is a great way to deter snakes, another way to keep them out of your yard is through smell. Some scents, like ammonia and certain essential oils, can be irritating to a snake's sensitive sensory organs. Snakes rely heavily on their sense of smell to locate prey, navigate, and detect potential threats.
When they encounter strong or irritating scents, it can cause discomfort and make them less likely to explore or remain in the area.
Natural snake deterrent: What scent will keep snakes away?
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Clove oil: Not just good for killing mould, clove oil has a strong and pungent scent that snakes dislike. Mix clove oil with water and spray it around areas where you want to keep snakes away.
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Cinnamon oil: Cinnamon oil is another strong-smelling scent that can deter snakes. Use it the same way you would clove oil, (diluting it with water and spraying it in snake-prone areas.)
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Onion and garlic: The pungent odour of onion and garlic can help deter snakes. Planting these vegetables around your garden or yard may help keep snakes away.
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Lemongrass and citrus: Lemongrass and citrus plants are two more scents snakes don't like.
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Cedar oil: Cedarwood oil has a strong, woody scent that snakes may avoid. Use cedar mulch or cedar oil in snake-prone areas.
What is the best snake repellent in Australia?
Here's a round up of snake deterrents available in Australia.
1. Sureguard snake repeller pulse vibration repel, $109, Ebay
Sureguard Snake Repellant uses ultrasound and emits vibrations up to 20 metres to keep snakes at bay. It works well according to customer reviews.
One reviewer says; "We had spied a red belly black (snake) around our garden a few times, but when he decided to join us on our deck for happy hour it was the last straw. Installed four around the house perimeter and so far (only about 4 weeks) we haven’t seen him again. They are a little loud, but we are getting used to it and (it's a) small price to pay if they will keep the snakes away."
Another reviewer says; "I ordered the repellers in desperation after seeing two brown snakes near my back door within a week. With a kennel of show dogs it was important that I get protection fast. Delivery took a bit longer than I would have liked, and the order arrived without one of the components ordered, however I have not seen a snake since. (A)nd that's the most important aspect for the safety of my dogs. Thank you."
2. Gardeon Snake Repeller, $64, Amazon
The Gardeon Snake Repeller is an effective solution to reduce the risk of snake encounters and protect your family and pets. These solar-powered snake repellents emit sonic pulses and vibrations to create a snake deterrent barrier around your property.
Made from high-quality, weatherproof materials, they are suitable for gardens, yards, farms, and orchards. With no operating cost and a rechargeable battery, they provide peace of mind, especially in snake-prone areas.
3. Raidar Snake Defence MP Plus, $99, Amazon
Another vibrational snake deterrent is Raidar which emits a variety of sounds and vibrations every 50 seconds.
What's great about Raidar is the vibrations change every 2 days making this a popular snake repellant in Australia. Being portable, you can also take it camping.
4. Pufado natural snake repellent, $75, Amazon
Pufado snake repellent is your solution for a snake-free yard and home. These repellent balls are easy to use and safe for pets, humans, and plants. Made from natural essential oils that snakes dislike, they effectively create a barrier with a 98-inch radius, stopping snakes in their tracks. With a lasting effect of two months and resistance to rain, you can protect indoor and outdoor spaces, ensuring a snake-free environment for your family.
5. Bonide snake stopper snake repellent, $133, Amazon
A ready-to-use granular solution designed for outdoor pest control that's safe for both people and pets. This product effectively repels snakes and other pests by utilising natural ingredients like Cinnamon Oil, Cedarwood Oil, and Clove Oil, creating a strong smell and taste that discourages snakesIt's also biodegradable and won't harm your plants.
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