References to „snake season“ are often made in the spring and summer when snakes are more active. However, snakes can pose a risk all year round, with their behavior changing based on the temperature. To help you stay safe outdoors and prevent snakes from entering your home, we consulted pest experts to identify the top signs of snakes in your yard.
RELATED: 9 Ways to Snake-Proof Your Yard, According to Experts.
1. Snake skins
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One common way to determine if snakes have been on your property is by finding their shed skin, which they do as they grow. „Snakes shed their skin about once every two months,“ explains Toby Cahoon of B&T Pest Control. Look for snakeskins under rocks or woodpiles to identify the species.
2. Trails
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Snakes leave distinctive trails in dirt or debris, with wide, wavy lines indicating their presence. The pattern and width of the trail can provide insights into the snake’s size and speed.
3. Droppings
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Snake droppings can be identified by their thick, pasty, dark-brown appearance with a chalky white tip. Droppings containing hair, nails, or bone fragments indicate a recent meal. Look for these in your yard to spot snake activity.
RELATED: 8 Things in Your Yard That Are Attracting Snakes to Your Home.
4. Hissing sounds
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Hissing sounds in your yard could indicate the presence of a snake. Snakes hiss to intimidate intruders or predators, with some species also rattling their tails or making other noises for defense.
5. Holes in the dirt
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While small holes in the dirt are often associated with snakes, they typically use existing rodent nests or burrows. Look for snakeskin around these holes to confirm snake activity.
6. A sudden lack of rodents
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If you notice a sudden decrease in rodents in your area, it could be a sign of snakes nearby. Snakes prey on rodents, so a lack of rodent activity may indicate snake presence.