Venomous copperhead snakes are back in Georgia. Here’s how keep them out of your yard
The Georgia snakes have officially come out of hibernation and many of you have already caught a glimpse of a snake or two this season. That means its time to go on the offensive when it comes to these unwanted critters.
June is also the peak season for snake sightings, especially venomous species like copperheads, rattlesnakes and coral snakes, so it becomes even more pressing to know how to keep them at bay.
Here are a few tips to keep you safe from the snakes this summer.
Keep your yard tidy
Removing potential snake habitats is a good place to start in the yard. Make sure you trim (or eliminate altogether) the following:
Tall grass or bushes
Woodpiles
Clusters of brush or debris
Unused toys or covered areas
Remove their food
Snakes feed on small animals like mice, rats, chipmunks, or squirrels, so if they can’t eat they’ll move on. It’s helpful to try to seal off entry points - especially if you’re trying to keep them out of your house. Look for:
Small cracks on the foundation or slab
Gaps in the fencing or gates
Exterior doors that don’t shut well
Build a better fence
There is such a thing as “snake-proof fencing” and you can get it at most any local hardware store. If you are a do-it-yourselfer, then keep these things in mind as you install the fence:
Use galvanized or aluminum mesh
Make sure the openings are no larger than
Install it at least 30 to 36 inches high
Bury a portion underground for at least 6 to 10 inches.
Angle the fence outwards at around 30 degrees.
Here’s what not to use
- Over the counter snake-repellent
- Moth balls
- Lime
- Eggshells
Have tips about how to keep snakes out of your yard this summer? Sound off in the comments, or you can email me and find me on Instagram.
This story was originally published June 4, 2024 at 7:00 AM.
