Telltale Signs Snakes Are Camping Out Under Your Deck

If you've noticed something off around your deck and can't shake the feeling that snakes might be making themselves at home there, trust this instinct. It's not uncommon for these reptiles to find solace under decks. Beyond the rare chance of spotting an actual snake, these creatures leave behind a series of signs that can confirm your suspicions. Tracks are a definite giveaway. Snakes, with their unique movement patterns, often leave behind distinctive squiggly trails that can be spotted in soft soil or dusty areas. Equally telling are snake droppings. While not always easy to identify, they generally have a whitish appearance with yellowish patches of urea. They can also contain visible bones or fur, remnants of recent meals.

Another undeniable sign is the presence of shed snake skin. Snakes periodically shed their skin as they grow, leaving behind these ghostly casings. Finding these near your deck is a sure sign of a snake nearby. In addition, pay attention to other, less obvious indicators. For instance, if you start noticing a decrease in the population of small animals like frogs, lizards, or even insects around your deck, it could be due to a snake's presence. Snakes are predators, and their hunting activities may impact your yard's ecosystem. While these clues are important, understanding why they're drawn to your deck can help you get rid of these snakes. It's not just a random choice for them; they're there for a reason.

Your deck offers a combination of shelter, food, and ideal environmental conditions that are highly attractive to snakes. It is the perfect sanctuary for resting, hiding, or even nesting. Besides the many holes and cracks where snakes can easily enter, decks are usually elevated, with the area underneath offering protection from predators and harsh weather. The availability of food also plays a significant role. Areas under decks often harbor small rodents, like mice, which are convenient food sources for snakes. The soil also supports a diverse ecosystem that includes the insects and other small creatures that snakes prey upon. If your yard or the area around your deck is rich in these creatures, it's likely to attract snakes. This is particularly true if there are openings that allow these animals, and consequently snakes, easy access.

Environmental conditions under your deck are another factor. These spaces tend to be dark and more humid, conditions that many snake species find ideal. Additionally, the typically low human activity under deck areas makes them more appealing to snakes. Snakes are shy and prefer to avoid confrontation, so quiet and undisturbed spaces, like under your deck, are particularly attractive. Remember, the presence of snakes isn't always a negative sign — it can indicate a healthy ecosystem in your backyard. However, when it comes to cohabiting safely, it's important to manage this situation effectively.

Getting rid of snakes in your yard and under your deck is less about confrontation and more about persuasion. It's like telling uninvited guests the party's over in a way they understand. Start by cutting off their food source. If your yard is a paradise for rodents and insects, snakes will always hang around. Keep your outdoor area clean enough to ensure those pesky rodents find a new hangout spot, leaving snakes with fewer reasons to stick around. Next, focus on blocking their access. As mentioned, snakes can squeeze through small gaps, so inspect the area around your deck thoroughly. Seal any openings you find, effectively cutting off their entry routes.

Additionally, try to make the environment around your deck less inviting. Snakes prefer dark, undisturbed areas, so keep the area clean and well-lit. Regularly trim the grass, clear out debris, and allow more sunlight to filter through. You can also consider growing cloves and other plants that deter snakes. In addition to these measures, it's important to recognize when professional help is needed. If the situation with rodents or snakes under your deck becomes overwhelming, don't hesitate to call pest control. These experts can offer more specialized solutions and safely handle the removal of these creatures.