There are approximately 50 different snake species in the United States alone, with a total of over 3,500 different species in the entire world. Because snakes are found on every continent except Antarctica, it is highly likely that your backyard pond will receive a visit or two (or many) from a snake or two (or many) during its lifespan.

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However, before you allow your fear to take over, remember that snakes are an important part of the environment’s ecosystem, and there are steps you can take to ensure that they do not pose a threat to your pond. When it comes to snakes, killing them should be the absolute last resort and should be avoided at all costs, as studies have discovered that up to two-thirds of snake populations around the world have declined dramatically over the last several decades.

Minnow traps are tubular mesh structures with openings that allow the snake to enter but not to exit, and they are extremely effective at catching the vast majority of pond snakes on the market! The traps can be placed in shallow water with bait such as minnows, dead or live rodents, and so on, or they can be placed on land and checked every hour of the day and night. It is recommended that snakes be released a couple of miles away (in suitable habitat – please do your research on which snake species you have captured, as releasing it in an appropriate area will reduce the likelihood of it returning to your pond).

The use of large glue traps is also effective, and snakes can be released by drizzling vegetable oil or another type of natural oil on them. Once again, move the snake at least a couple of miles away from the house to make it less likely that it will find its way back. Keep in mind that relocating snakes is illegal in some areas and with some species of snakes, depending on the circumstances. Before you do anything, make sure to check with your local wildlife office. The same is true when it comes to killing snakes.

Snakes are preyed upon by a variety of animals, including mongooses, foxes, minks, and badgers. Their urine is available for purchase at certain hardware shops and on the internet. King snake musk is also said to be effective, and it can be purchased easily online. Spread one or more of them around your pond to discourage snakes from getting too near to your water feature.

To naturally repel snakes, try using cinnamon oil, clove oil, or eugenol as a carrier oil. The chemicals in these oils seem to interfere with snakes’ chemosensory systems, causing them pain as well as making it harder for them to track down food, but having no detrimental effect on other species, according to research.

Snakes prefer to hide in a variety of places, including leaf heaps, wood piles, earth holes, and grass clippings left over after mowing. Make careful to clear up any heaps of leaves, wood, or grass that have accumulated, and fill up any holes in the ground with soil or pebbles if necessary. The majority of snake species do not dig their own burrows, but rather take up residence in dens that have been abandoned by other animals such as mice, groundhogs, and foxes.

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