Alert:
Few animals elicit stronger reactions or are more feared and misunderstood than snakes. They are a vital component of healthy, natural systems.
Snakes - General Information
Snakes play an important role in maintaining the balance and diversity of native species. They are preyed upon by larger species and, in turn, keep rodent and insect populations in check.
Snakes are cold-blooded reptiles. Temperature affects their movements and activities. They spend cool months in hibernation and much of the summer under cover or basking in sunlight. Snakes are both active and opportunistic feeders, taking advantage of a passing or discovered meal. Their habitat, as for all wildlife, is one in which they can find suitable food and shelter. They may seek cover and prey in log piles, on rocky outcrops, or in abandoned burrows. If available, they may shelter in basements, trash dumps or attics.
How to Discourage and Exclude Snakes from Your Home
These techniques will make your home less attractive to snakes.
Make sure snakes are gone before sealing entry points. Sealing an animal in is inhumane, and you won't like the odor from decomposition.
Check with a contractor before sealing weep holes in mortar. A cross-section of cotton rope may need to be inserted to wick off moisture.
Snakes - Fact or Fiction