Garter snakes leave your garden when you remove their hiding spots like rock piles and dense ground cover. If you are wondering how do you get rid of garter snakes, the answer is simpler than you think. These snakes are not dangerous, but they can be startling. They also attract pests like rodents and insects. The key is to make your yard less inviting.
Garter snakes are common in North America. They are usually harmless and even beneficial because they eat slugs and bugs. But if you see them near your home, you might want them gone. This guide will show you step-by-step methods to remove them safely.
You don’t need chemicals or professional help for most cases. Simple changes to your landscape can do the trick. Let’s start with the basics.
Why Garter Snakes Come To Your Yard
Garter snakes are looking for food, water, and shelter. If your yard offers these, they will stay. They eat small insects, worms, and amphibians. They also like moist areas with lots of cover.
Common attractants include:
- Overgrown grass and weeds
- Piles of wood, rocks, or leaves
- Bird feeders that spill seeds (attracts rodents)
- Ponds or birdbaths
- Cracks in your foundation or walls
Once you remove these, the snakes have no reason to hang around. They will move on naturally.
How Do You Get Rid Of Garter Snakes
This is the core of the article. The exact keyword “How Do You Get Rid Of Garter Snakes” fits here because we are about to give you the complete plan. Follow these steps in order for best results.
Step 1: Remove Hiding Spots
Garter snakes love places where they feel safe. Start by cleaning up your yard. Pick up rock piles, lumber stacks, and old bricks. Trim bushes and shrubs so they don’t touch the ground. Mow your lawn regularly.
Check under decks, sheds, and porches. These areas often have gaps where snakes can hide. Seal any openings with hardware cloth or caulk. Also remove leaf piles and thick ground cover like ivy or pachysandra.
Snakes will leave when they have no place to hide. This is the most effective long-term solution.
Step 2: Remove Food Sources
Snakes eat small animals. If you have rodents, frogs, or insects, snakes will come. Control these pests first.
- Keep bird feeders clean and use trays to catch seeds
- Store pet food indoors
- Remove standing water from pots and tires
- Use natural pest control for insects
When the food is gone, the snakes will go elsewhere.
Step 3: Use Physical Barriers
You can block snakes from entering certain areas. Install snake-proof fencing around gardens or under decks. Use mesh with holes no larger than 1/4 inch. Bury the bottom of the fence a few inches into the ground.
Also seal gaps around doors, windows, and pipes. Use weather stripping or expandable foam. This stops snakes from getting into your home.
Step 4: Try Natural Repellents
Some people use smells to deter snakes. Garter snakes have a strong sense of smell. You can try:
- Mothballs (but use with caution, they are toxic)
- Sulfur powder
- Cinnamon or clove oil
- Garlic or onion sprays
These methods have mixed results. They might work for a short time, but they are not reliable. Focus more on habitat removal.
Step 5: Trap And Relocate
If you have a persistent snake, you can trap it. Use a live trap designed for snakes. Place it along walls or near hiding spots. Bait it with earthworms or small fish.
Check the trap daily. Once caught, relocate the snake at least a mile away. Wear gloves and be careful. Garter snakes can bite, but it is not dangerous.
Check local laws before trapping. Some areas require permits.
Step 6: Use Predators
Natural predators can help control snakes. Cats and dogs sometimes chase them away. But not all pets will do this. Some might even get bitten.
Encourage birds of prey like hawks and owls. They eat snakes. Install a nesting box to attract them.
What Not To Do When Removing Garter Snakes
There are common mistakes people make. Avoid these:
- Do not use glue traps. They are cruel and can kill non-target animals.
- Do not use poison. It can harm pets and wildlife.
- Do not try to handle snakes without gloves. They can release a foul smell.
- Do not kill them. Garter snakes are beneficial and often protected by law.
Stick to humane methods. They work better and are safer for everyone.
How To Prevent Garter Snakes From Returning
Prevention is easier than removal. Once you have cleared your yard, maintain it. Keep grass short. Remove debris quickly. Seal entry points to your home.
Check your property regularly. Look for new hiding spots. Also monitor for signs of rodents or insects. If you stay on top of it, snakes will stay away.
Consider planting snake-repelling plants. Some people use marigolds, lemongrass, or wormwood. Their strong smells may deter snakes.
When To Call A Professional
Most garter snake problems are manageable on your own. But sometimes you need help. Call a wildlife removal service if:
- You have a large infestation
- Snakes are inside your walls or attic
- You are uncomfortable handling them
- You cannot find the entry points
Professionals can identify and seal all gaps. They also have tools to remove snakes safely.
Frequently Asked Questions About Garter Snakes
Are Garter Snakes Dangerous To Humans?
No, they are not venomous. They have mild toxins that only affect small prey. Their bite is harmless to humans. They may release a smelly musk when scared.
What Smells Do Garter Snakes Hate?
They dislike strong smells like cinnamon, clove, and garlic. Mothballs also work but are toxic. Use these as a temporary measure.
Will Garter Snakes Climb Into My House?
Yes, if there are gaps in the foundation or walls. They can also enter through open doors. Seal all cracks to prevent entry.
How Do You Get Rid Of Garter Snakes In The Garden?
Remove hiding spots like rocks and mulch. Keep the garden tidy. Use barriers and traps if needed. The same methods work for gardens.
Do Garter Snakes Hibernate In Groups?
Yes, they often den together in large numbers. This is why you might see many at once. Remove their denning sites to prevent this.
Final Thoughts On Garter Snake Removal
Getting rid of garter snakes does not have to be hard. Focus on habitat modification first. Remove their hiding spots and food sources. Use barriers and traps as needed.
Remember, these snakes are not your enemy. They help control pests. But if you want them gone, the methods above will work. Be patient and consistent.
You can live snake-free without harming them. Just make your yard less inviting. They will move on to find a better home.
If you have a serious problem, call a professional. They can handle it quickly and safely. Otherwise, follow this guide and you will see results.
Now you know exactly how do you get rid of garter snakes. Take action today and reclaim your yard.