How to Identify Snake Holes in Your Yard—and What to Do After

As the weather warms and your backyard comes to life, you might notice small holes appearing in the ground. While some of these holes are the work of rodents, insects, or even turtles, there's a chance that some could be snake holes. Snakes often seek shelter in abandoned burrows, using these pre-existing holes to escape harsh weather and predators. Knowing how to identify these snake holes can help you understand your yard’s ecosystem and take appropriate action if necessary. This article will guide you through identifying snake holes in your yard and what steps you can take afterward.

What Does a Snake Hole Look Like?

Snake holes can vary significantly in size and shape, primarily because snakes are not the ones who dig them. Instead, they move into holes that were originally created and then abandoned by other animals, such as rodents or turtles. The appearance of these holes depends on the type of animal that dug them.

For example, some holes may be perfectly round and only an inch across, while others could be larger and more irregularly shaped. A key indicator that a snake has taken up residence is the presence of discarded snake skins nearby. Snakes shed their skins regularly, and finding one near a hole is a strong sign that the hole is now home to a snake. Additionally, snake feces, which looks like thick brown liquid with a chalky white end, can also be found near or inside these holes, further indicating the presence of a snake.

How to Differentiate Between Snake Holes and Rodent Holes

Since snake holes often start as rodent holes, distinguishing between the two can be challenging. However, there are a few telltale signs that can help you determine whether a snake or a rodent currently occupies a hole in your yard.

• Snake Skin: If you find a discarded snake skin near a hole, it's likely a snake hole rather than a rodent hole.

• Snake Feces: Snake feces appear as a brown paste with a white chalky end. Finding this near or inside a hole suggests it is occupied by a snake.

• Signs of Digging: If you notice claw marks or small piles of freshly dug dirt, the hole is more likely to belong to a rodent. Snakes cannot dig; they only move into holes that have already been excavated.

Understanding these differences is crucial for correctly identifying the holes in your yard and taking appropriate action.

Types of Snakes That Might Be in Your Yard

Several species of snakes could potentially inhabit your yard, depending on your location. The good news is that most of them are harmless and play an essential role in controlling pests. Here’s a quick overview of some common snakes found in North America:

• Rat Snakes: These are among the most common "suburban" snakes, typically found across the eastern and midwestern United States. Rat snakes are usually black, gray, or black and yellow and grow between 3 and 5 feet long. They primarily feed on small rodents and birds.

• Garter Snakes: Another widespread and harmless species, garter snakes are found throughout North America. They are generally between 18 and 30 inches long and prefer wet and forested habitats. Their diet includes small fish, amphibians, and earthworms.

• King Snakes: Known for their striking patterns, king snakes are found throughout the United States. They can grow up to 6.5 feet long and are non-venomous. King snakes are particularly known for their ability to eat other snakes, including venomous species.

• Milk Snakes: Milk snakes vary in size, typically larger in the southern United States. They come in various colors, including red, orange, and brown, and are often mistaken for the venomous coral snake. However, milk snakes are non-venomous and pose no threat to humans.

• Corn Snakes: Commonly found in the southeastern United States, corn snakes prefer wooded or overgrown areas. They are brightly colored, usually in shades of red and orange, and can grow between 2 and 6 feet long. Corn snakes are non-venomous and help control rodent populations.

• Cottonmouth Snakes (Venomous): Also known as water moccasins, cottonmouths get their name from the bright white interior of their mouths, which they display when threatened. These snakes are found near water in the southeastern United States, growing between 2 and 4 feet long. They are venomous, so caution is advised if you encounter one.

• Copperhead Snakes (Venomous): Copperheads are found throughout the eastern United States and can thrive in various habitats. They are 2 to 3 feet long with dark brown, hourglass-shaped markings. Although venomous, their bites are rarely fatal to humans.

• Rattlesnakes (Venomous): Rattlesnakes prefer arid environments, mainly found in the American Southwest, although some species live east of the Mississippi. They can grow up to 8 feet long and are known for their distinctive rattle sound, which they use as a warning when threatened.

What to Do If You Find a Snake Hole

If you’ve identified a snake hole in your yard, you have several options for how to proceed:

• Leave Them Be: The most natural approach is to leave the hole undisturbed. Snakes play a beneficial role in the ecosystem, particularly by controlling rodent populations. Most snakes are non-venomous and pose little threat to humans unless provoked. By leaving snake holes alone, you allow these reptiles to continue their natural role in pest control.

• Fill Them In: If you’re concerned about venomous snakes or simply don’t want snakes in your yard, you can fill in the holes with dirt. However, keep in mind that if the hole was originally dug by a rodent, it could be re-dug by another animal. Filling in snake holes can be a temporary solution, especially if you’re dealing with venomous species.

• Cover Them: To prevent holes from being re-dug, consider covering them with a piece of burlap or chicken wire before filling them in. This adds an extra layer of protection and discourages animals from reusing the hole.

• Call a Professional: If you’re dealing with venomous snakes or have a recurring problem, it’s best to call a wildlife control expert. Professionals can safely remove the snakes and advise you on how to prevent future issues.

How to Prevent Snakes from Entering Your Yard

Completely preventing snakes from entering your yard can be challenging, especially since many species are highly adaptable and can thrive in various environments. However, there are several steps you can take to make your yard less attractive to snakes:

• Keep Grass Mowed: Snakes prefer tall grass and overgrown areas where they can easily hide. Regularly mowing your lawn reduces potential hiding spots.

• Clear Away Debris: Remove piles of leaves, brush, and other debris that could serve as shelter for snakes. Keeping your yard tidy and free of clutter can help deter snakes from taking up residence.

• Seal Gaps and Holes: Inspect your home’s foundation and seal any gaps or holes that could allow snakes to enter. This is particularly important if you live in an area where venomous snakes are common.

• Use Natural Repellents: Some homeowners find success with natural snake repellents, such as essential oils (e.g., clove or cinnamon) or commercial products designed to deter snakes. While these may not provide complete protection, they can help reduce the likelihood of snakes entering your yard.

• Maintain a Clean Yard: Snakes are often attracted to yards with ample food sources, such as rodents or insects. Keeping your yard clean and free of food waste or birdseed can reduce the presence of these prey animals, making your yard less appealing to snakes.

Conclusion

Identifying snake holes in your yard is an essential step in understanding and managing your outdoor space. While the presence of snakes might be unsettling for some, it's important to remember that most snakes are harmless and beneficial to your yard’s ecosystem. They help control rodent populations and contribute to the overall biodiversity of your area.

If you discover a snake hole, consider leaving it undisturbed, as snakes play a crucial role in pest control. However, if you’re concerned about venomous species or simply want to keep snakes away, filling in the holes, covering them, or calling a professional are all viable options. By taking preventive measures, such as keeping your yard clean and free of debris, you can reduce the chances of snakes settling in your yard.

Ultimately, coexisting with these fascinating reptiles can be rewarding and beneficial for your garden. Understanding the signs of snake holes and knowing how to respond will help you maintain a safe and balanced outdoor environment.