how to get rid of water snakes

Overrun by unwanted serpents in your aquatic space? It’s crucial to take swift action to eliminate water snakes from your surroundings. These slithering creatures can be a danger to both humans and pets with their venomous bites and aggressive behavior. To ensure the safety of your family and the tranquility of your property, follow these effective methods to get rid of water snakes for good.

Identifying Water Snakes

Common Species and Habitats

A common species of water snake that you may encounter is the Northern water snake, which is found in various bodies of fresh water such as lakes, ponds, and rivers. These snakes are often mistaken for venomous cottonmouths due to their similar appearance and defensive behavior.

Signs of Water Snake Presence

There’s a chance you may come across shed snake skins near bodies of water, indicating the presence of water snakes in the area. Additionally, you may spot these snakes basking on rocks or logs along the shore, soaking up the sun to regulate their body temperature.

Species like the Northern water snake may also leave behind a musky odor as a defense mechanism when they feel threatened or cornered. This can be a distinctive sign of their presence in the vicinity. Keep an eye out for these tell-tale signs to be aware of your surroundings.

Water snakes, though non-venomous, can still pose a threat with their sharp teeth and defensive nature. Being mindful of these signs can help you identify and avoid potential encounters with these creatures.

Prevention Techniques

If you suspect water snakes in your area, it is crucial to take preventive measures to keep them away. For detailed advice on dealing with water moccasins, check out Help! Getting rid of water moccasins!.

Habitat Modification Tips

The key to preventing water snakes from making your property their home is to eliminate their preferred habitats. Keep your yard tidy by removing excess vegetation and debris where snakes can hide. Trim overgrown grasses and bushes, and seal off any openings or gaps that can serve as entry points. Recognizing and altering potential nesting sites is important in deterring water snakes from sticking around.

Natural Deterrents and Repellents

Some natural deterrents and repellents can help keep water snakes at bay. Planting marigolds, wormwood, or onion in your garden can act as natural repellents. Another effective method is spreading cloves or cinnamon around the perimeter of your property to deter snakes with their strong scents.

Removal Strategies

Not sure how to handle water snakes infiltrating your property? Check out What can be done to discourage northern water snakes for some useful tips on prevention.

Safe Capture and Relocation Methods

Clearly, the safest way to deal with a water snake on your property is to capture and relocate it. Use a long-handled tool like a snake hook to gently guide the snake into a secure container. Make sure to release it at least a mile away from your property, near a body of water, to ensure it won’t find its way back.

When to Call a Professional

While handling water snakes on your own can be tempting, there are situations where it’s best to leave it to the experts. If you are unsure of the species, if the snake is venomous, or if it’s in a hard-to-reach area, calling a professional is the safest option. Wildlife removal experts have the knowledge and tools to safely and efficiently remove the snake from your property.

Call a professional immediately if you suspect the presence of a water moccasin, also known as a cottonmouth. These snakes are highly venomous and pose a serious threat to humans and pets. It’s crucial to avoid any contact with this snake and seek professional help for its safe removal.

Long-Term Control Measures

Ongoing Prevention and Monitoring

Keep water snakes at bay by implementing ongoing prevention and monitoring measures. Regularly inspect your property for any potential entry points such as cracks or holes in walls, screens, and doors. Trim back vegetation around your property to reduce hiding spots for water snakes. Consider installing a snake-proof fence around your yard to prevent them from slithering in.

Factors Affecting Water Snake Populations

For long-term control of water snakes, understanding the factors that affect their populations is crucial. Factors such as food availability, habitat suitability, and predation play a significant role in determining the abundance of water snakes in an area. By addressing these factors, you can effectively manage water snake populations on your property.

• Food availability: Water snakes feed on fish, frogs, and small mammals. Availability of prey can influence the size of snake populations.
• Habitat suitability: Water snakes prefer wetland areas with ample hiding spots. Altering the habitat can deter snakes from settling in your property.
• Predation: Predators like birds of prey, raccoons, and larger snakes can impact water snake populations.

Recognizing these factors and taking appropriate measures can help in effectively managing and controlling water snake populations in the long run.

FAQ

Q: What are water snakes and why do people want to get rid of them?

A: Water snakes are a type of non-venomous snake that are commonly found near water sources. People may want to get rid of them as they can be seen as a threat to pets, disrupt the ecosystem, and potentially pose a danger to humans.

Q: How can I identify water snakes?

A: Water snakes typically have long, slender bodies with dark colored patterned skin. They have a distinct head shape, similar to an arrow, and range in size from 2 to 4 feet long.

Q: What are some ways to deter water snakes from my property?

A: To deter water snakes, you can remove potential hiding spots like rocks or debris, keep your lawn trimmed, install a snake-proof fence, and reduce any potential food sources such as rodents or insects.

Q: Are there any natural methods to repel water snakes?

A: Yes, you can use natural repellents such as a mixture of cinnamon oil and clove oil, or a mixture of garlic and onion solution sprayed around your property. These scents are known to deter snakes from entering an area.

Q: When should I seek professional help to remove water snakes?

A: If you have a severe infestation of water snakes on your property, or if you are unsure of how to safely remove them, it is best to seek help from a professional wildlife removal service. They have the expertise and tools to safely and effectively remove the snakes from your property.