How to keep snakes away from your home. Advice from a wildlife biologist.

Video offering tips to help keep snakes away from your home. Note* will not keep every snake away from your property, as your neighbors may be doing things to attract snakes (leaving out dog food, messy bird feeders ect). I welcome all questions, also includes a Eastern Rat Snake (AKA Pilot Snake, or Black Rat Snake) (Pantherophis alleghaniensis).

[@TheJezzakal1]

Apart from feeling a little sea sick after watching, very good information 😊

[@wilbozz]

Sorry about that I need to make this over one day...but with a steady camera

[@TheJezzakal1]

@wilbozz all good, trying to do a job at home with kids is always trying to fly close to the sun 🤣🤣😎

[@davidwho8215]

Yeah, the camera movement was nauseating; I tried to listen without watching, 😂.

[@jamesmitchell1932]

I thought it was filmed during an earthquake for a second there lol.

[@ryanbeauchamp5494]

How to keep snakes away from your home: Pick better friends.

[@wilbozz]

I see what you did there, and I approve.

[@elizabethballenger6142]

yep most snakes r 2 legged

[@faceofmalinda3532]

😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@pfschuyler]

Ban journalists from a 3-mile wide area.

[@mikegustav9806]

😅🤣😂🤣cut the grass

[@eightyoneisme]

He sounds more like a defense attorney for snakes.

[@wilbozz]

"Attention serpents! Have you been wrongfully accused of biting someone?...Call 1800-NoBite, and get the protection you deserve"

[@eightyoneisme]

@@wilbozz 🤣🤣🤣

[@AdminCKesler]

thats what I was thinking. I don't want them around the perimeter of my home I don't care how much they help. This is the first I've ever had to comment or wanted to comment on a video this was a complete waste of time.

[@crustydownunder]

Clearly, you have never lived in rural Australia. Had an Eastern Brown snake in my yard today. Second most deadly snake in the world. I have 8 grandkids that love to explore our acres. I can't have snakes wondering around my property.

[@wilbozz]

I respect that. I spent a month in and around Cairns, absolutely beautiful. Only snakes I saw were pythons, and sea snakes but I was really just vacationing.

[@beverleygrace]

I agree Australian states are very different specially the eastern brown I found one in my backyard the other day I’m too scared to go out in the back now Australian snakes are quite different they’re tricky and you can’t handle them like you do in that picture because I’ll eat you and it’s against the law to kill snakes jail time

[@Music081327]

Had a Western Brown in my backyard sunning itself on our entry steps (we're on 5.5 acres) today. Reared up at my partner then disappeared. Not fun!

[@mexicoshanty]

ha, as an Aussie who grow up in rural Australia and now living in Texas; when i come across a brown snake here i'm like "stay back everyone! go get me the shovel!". Then I realize I don't know what this snake is so i should google. 5 mins later it's always a harmless little fella that I should leave alone, and I do.

[@crustydownunder]

@@Music081327 Since you can't kill them, the best thing to do is call a snake guy and have them moved to some other place. If you just leave them be, you never know which bush they are hiding under, best to remove them.

[@Lgaucker123]

I’m trying to live with them OUTSIDE..however this weekend one found it’s way in my house.. up the cellar dye and on my dining room!! I was able to actually catch it on a bucket and throw it outside but I almost had a heart attack!! Outside is their habitat not in the house!!!

[@jay_opps_4real]

The extra camera movement is driving me nuts ! Keep it still next time PLEASE !

[@wilbozz]

I am debating doing a remix with a steady camera.

[@DebUSA]

🐍 🐍 🐍 It was easy for me to overlook the movement because the info being offered is very interesting.

[@wilbozz]

DebUSA thank you, it was one of my older videos so I need to do better with the camera.

[@balooo2863]

@@wilbozz Fragile much...snow flake...delete this too.

[@wilbozz]

If you accidentally deleted your comment before I saw it, I am happy to answer any herpetology questions.

[@interestedlen8823]

Brilliant advice, Will. The tip about spraying with a garden hose - every garden has one, couldn't be simpler. The explanations of why they come around de-mystifies their behaviour, and seeing your little one so relaxed around Dad handling the ratsnake takes away the mythology of snakes. I was raised by a really fearless woman, with one exception - snakes. From a scare as a child she had this phobia, which, though I've my own neuroses, I don't think I have caught. They are fascinating creatures, and you give them their place in nature very well, thank you.

[@wilbozz]

Thank you for your kind and thoughtful words. Your mother sounds like a great woman. Lots of people have a fear of snakes that the develop, but I have never seen a child 4 or under afraid of snakes I think it is a learned fear(but this is out of my wheelhouse).

[@interestedlen8823]

​@@wilbozz Thank you for your gracious response, Will. From what I understand, a school of thought in psychology suggests there may be a dormant evolutionary sensitivity in some of us to fear snakes and spiders, but that it needs to be reinforced by a negative response to an early encouter. If we are shown there is nothing to fear, the response never becomes active. It is so encouraging to see modern biologists, such as yourself, making the animals we share the planet with creatures of interest rather than totems to fear.

[@reginaburnett3976]

Unfortunately I'm petrified of snakes and the damn thing wrapped itself around my house! I had to bust the corner, with a spray bottle and I thank God it didn't come for me, cos I woulda been caught 😭😭that thang was fast af🤦🏾‍♀️. Anyways I heard onion powder and water worked, so I used all my onion powder 🙇🏾‍♀️🤷🏾‍♀️

[@chantaln6843]

Your suggestions were valuable information. Thank you.

[@wilbozz]

Thank you. If you have any other snake questions please let me know

[@cindybochenski6976]

Many people wanting to watch this are petrified of snakes and don't want to see any here either!

[@nancywebb6549]

I lived in the Seattle area where there are no poisonous snakes. What we did have were garter snakes which are about 12 inches long. They tend to scurry away and startle you. One day I saw one with a huge slug in its mouth. The slugs in the northwest can be 5 inches long and are everywhere so having the snakes is a benefit.

[@wilbozz]

Awesome news. I am just leaving Spokane today for a wildlife conference. I always appreciate it when people are comfortable with snakes in their properties. Have an excellent day.

[@marciaeppelin161]

Rather than having sod for your yard, crushed shell is a big deterrent.

[@BlueDays_BlackKnights]

I’d take the snakes over that size slug any day.

[@CLand1Nation]

Ok, so I have a few Garter snakes around my house. I don't want to kill them but nothing is deterring them. I have 2 young kids and don't want one of the snakes to try and bite them. I know they aren't venomous, but I still don't want any bites. Does anything out there at all actually deter the snakes from residing at our home?

[@mwshearn]

In regards to your comment about rocks. We are cleaning out a section of our yard that housed years of neglected boxwood and azaleas with layers and layers of pine needles etc. One day when lifting one of the old edging stones, I saw the tail of either a snake or possibly a skink (in HTX). I have a severe snake phobia and we're redoing this area to be a sort of play spot for my sons. I wanted to do a dry river bed for them for the garage gutter to drain into but I'm worried this could become a favorite spot for any reptiles in the summers. The dry river bed would be mostly medium sized rocks and river stones with pea gravel on either side. I have a 4 and a 2yo and we spend as much time outdoors as possible in the summer, but I want to make sure I'm converting this area to be as safe as possible for them, esp since I can't have eyes on the rocks every second if one of them is in there and the other is across the yard. We've lived here almost a year and other than the slithery tail under the stone that one time we've never personally seen one in our yard, although neighbors sometimes have. What's the best option here to keep my kids safe?

[@wilbozz]

Snakes want: food, shelter, and water. Smaller pea sized rocks do not offer the protection that snakes are looking for. Snakes really need to have a place to seek refuge. Avoid the larger rocks as they will provide coverage for both snakes and the food they hunt.

[@kristindiane9812]

Nope...I tried to spray a copperhead slithering into my garage and all it did was make him mad. He coiled then moved further into the garage (toward spraying water) and hid. Didn't have a choice at that point.

[@geetaramdeo687]

Sorry I couldn't watch with you holding that snake . I had to put the phone 📱 down & listen . I just hate snakes 🐍 😒 & so scared 😱 of them .

[@wilbozz]

Understood, definitely not trying to frighten anyone. I don't really like hearing people talk about blood draws for some reason.

[@karennootbaar2353]

Same. I didn't watch, just listened.

[@bbapplesam]

I would like to start camping but the fear of snakes keeps me out of camping so most say cinnamon oil and clove oil will keep them away so If I put tent and spray some of the oil around the tent will I be safe at night using those.

[@mbarnettua]

Just FYI: if I’m looking for a video to keep snakes from my home, then you should expect me not to like snakes. You shouldn’t do an entire video holding a snake. I couldn’t focus on what you’re saying bc of the snake.

[@wilbozz]

I appreciate the feedback

[@rachelp8183]

Then just listen to the video or read an article online….

[@yolandaporter9500]

Just watched this video. I learned a lot from this video and I was not aware of the food I was putting out for the squirrels and stray cat; could attract rodents and snakes. I will place the squirrel food in a hanging feeder and once the cat is finished eating, I will pick up the bowl. Again, very educational and thank you.

[@wilbozz]

Absolutely Yolanda. It is a few years old and I probably should remake it. Any wildlife biology questions feel free to ask.

[@reginaburnett3976]

I've been feeding a stray cat as well an I learned real quick to bring the bowl in when done, as a possum was peaking at me from the roof of my house. That's when I realized the cat wasn't the only one eating🙄

[@sharkboyjuan]

That's skill.. recording while an 8.0 earthquake in motion

[@darianazamora3434]

You camera man is all over the place !! Lol I’m guessing one of your kids recording lol

[@happyglock3426]

Very informative! Thank you! I am in Tampa...larger property with a resident black racer....he lives between the garage and on the roof under the metal sheeting...I see him a lot and have gotten used to him, still unnerving as he is not afraid of me AT ALL... he will peek around corners to see me and come pretty close sometimes. I do have a family of red shouldered hawks on property and I fear I may see “snik” flying through the air with one of them some day.

[@wilbozz]

One cool thing about racers is they are commonly observed periscoping for both danger( yes you are right your hawk's will eat them if they get the chance), and food. Also I would have changed their name from racer after the discovery of coachwhips which travel at double the speed.

[@happyglock3426]

@@wilbozz “periscoping”is the perfect description! I will google coachwhips…thanks again man

[@maxmax-vi2mw]

Oh lord, I would sell the house. real snake phobia here@@wilbozz

[@kaiobikeg8749]

Had a garter snake on my driveway yesterday while spring cleaning. Startled us for a moment because I opened the garage door and there it was. I actually got my new canon camera and laid down near it and snapped a bunch of pics of it. Then I shoed it away with a broom. But today I got home from work and immediately noticed a huge black snake with a yellow bottom jaw chilling under a tree near my home. I live near a canal and sugar cane field and it haven’t rained in a while so I’m assuming it’s cottonmouth BUT it almost looks like the snake you have in your hand. I went to get my BB gun but at same time was hesitant to kill it. It eventually ran away into a huge hole in that tree. So here I am researching way to get it away before having to harm it. My children are young and like to be outdoor from time to time. I’ll do all these precautions today and hopefully it moves on. My wife isn’t a fan of them and my father isn’t either lol. Great info thank you

[@frankminer4061]

Great; checking Amazon Prime for a hawk or an owl.

[@wilbozz]

Falconers be like: Sold

[@bluewater2472]

😂😂😂 childish

[@michaelclary2267]

Squirt with a water hose?? Nah, ima use a flamethrower!🤣

[@todaynow1563]

Good topic.

[@TruthB7Told]

Very informative!

[@arlinrodriguez62]

Yesterday I Found a black snake on my back yard and its very frightenen for my 2 years old son. That black snake better not come out to light again because it will be her last day on Earth ...Amen!

[@liorajimenez3085]

ROFL 😂

[@carladurland5194]

Really like this message... any advice for keeping them out of a pool

[@wilbozz]

Absolutely... there are a number of these products available on Amazon. Frogs, snakes, and other animals can crawl right out. www.amazon.com/Swimline-70200SL-FrogLog-Critter-Saving/dp/B004UHY2TY/ref=asc_df_B004UHY2TY/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312021382242&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=12198319204787902141&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9030453&hvtargid=pla-446512057608&psc=1&tag=&ref=&adgrpid=62819578475&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvadid=312021382242&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=12198319204787902141&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9030453&hvtargid=pla-446512057608

[@elizabethballenger6142]

amonia its cheap works good

[@DebUSA]

Stopped by to watch on September 19, 2021 . . . Interesting information!!!

[@wilbozz]

Thank you, I appreciate it.

[@Jericho1582]

Hi, there had been occasionally snake enter my yard/home, my father mention it was non-venom snakes but our neighbor once called firefighter to catch an cobra too. I'm sort of worry and have no idea what to do or prepare mentally and physically, any advice ?

[@wilbozz]

Take a breath, relax, remember the snake is more afraid of you than you of it. Physically if you don't have a commercial hook or tong, a 1 meter piece of rebar with a bend in q end will help you hook the snake to move it along. Cobras typically are also pretty docile compared to other elapids.

[@Jericho1582]

@@wilbozz thx for the advice, it sure ease my fear a lot knowing what to deal with

[@gringostarr69]

I recommed fiskars branch cutters. You can also buy razorwire and round your yard with that.

[@e2ndcomingsoon655]

Hope you could please help me with this question, we are building our house close to a pond, the pond is very long, heard that there are cottonmouths there and now I can’t even sleep bc I’m very horrified by it, plus I have a 5 year old kid to keep safe from the snake. We are planning on having 3 dogs, 2 cats, chicken coop. Is it going to be too dangerous to live there? I can’t even sleep now with this worry! Thank you for reading this question.

[@wilbozz]

Cottonmouth/water moccasins like all snakes do not chase people and bites are defensive. Typically when they are picked up or stepped on. Some dogs are curious and have been bitten when they sniff snakes this is not common. Your 5 year old just tell to not touch snakes. Keep your grass cut and follow the other recommendations in this video and you will be fine. Snakes filll an important role in the food web and really just want to be left alone.

[@anawajdy5796]

Thanks for the advices

[@wilbozz]

Absolutely...I work in a ton of wildlife management issues as a biologist...happy to help in any way possible

[@anawajdy5796]

@@wilbozz thanks 🙏🏻 Is there’s any device to cast them away like electric wave ?

[@wilbozz]

As far as electronic snake repellents they are a huge waste of $. They create a vibration and snakes primarily hunt by smell/visual cues so a vibration will do nothing except add a buzzing sound in your yard. Best thing to do is make your yard Unattractive to snakes and their prey.

[@soryu__]

After checking some comments, it's no wonder there's lot of snake going in my house. Our yard is like heaven to snake, unused pipe everywhere lot of bush. A lot of unnecessary thing around where the snake can hide. I can't do anything since my parent refuse to clean because mom like gardening and dad like to keep crap around the house

[@babs3483]

Going inside your house? Like just hanging out in one of the rooms?

[@Hideaway904]

I'm very curious to hear about the situation you mentioned about the cop hurting a person when shooting a snake. Please do tell.

[@wilbozz]

Also, when I used to teach shooting,1 basic rule was to know what is behind your target. Thank you for asking. Happy to answer any other questions.

[@xGR1MxREAPERx]

You seem very informative. Question hopefully you can help: I live in MN and we have harmless garter snakes. The problem is every year after winter and when it starts getting nice out I have snakes all over in the corner of garage and hanging on garage door and in siding etc.. I have a decently big open area under garage slab that I believe they are trying to get too( maybe a female or something ?) but for about a month I am constantly killing snakes and they all seem to be around the same corner of garage. What can I do right after winter to stop them from coming back to the same breeding spot or whatever they are doing? Or is there a big female in there right now hibernating or something and they are trying to get to her in spring? Sorry for long question. Help plz lol.,

[@wilbozz]

Snakes search for protected spaces, such as your garage. In the winter, a garage shows up as warmer through their heat organ, so that's where they go. Reptiles brumate (version of hibernation) they are active but can't eat. Garages and basements with cracks, vent holes, under the doors are how they are getting in. Death during winter up north on snakes is estimated to be as high as 1/3 of the population of garter snakes, they simply don't have many places to go, and they use communal hibernation sites. They are using your garage because they can get in, they don't breed till spring. I recommend finding the holes (probably close to the ground) and sealing them up. They will then move on when they try to enter your garage and seek shelter elsewhere. I was in Stacy, MN in September, beautiful area.

[@xGR1MxREAPERx]

@@wilbozz so right now there may be some hibernating under the slab area? i will have to check. what works for spring to keep them away period? i heard pure peppermint oil or snake away pellets. thanks for the info really appreciate it

[@wilbozz]

@@xGR1MxREAPERx Yes, they could be hibernating right now. Peppermint, snake pellets do not work at all... to fill cracks in walls spray foam works, under garage sometimes just a new weather strip (mice chew on them they dry out), chicken wire is good in vents. If you turn off the lights in your garage and see where light is leaking through that should help you find most of the cracks. Oh and they make a Crack sealer for driveways and concrete that can seal up anything on the floor, but please wait till spring so they are not sealed inside.

[@xGR1MxREAPERx]

@@wilbozz so snake pellets or anythign doesnt work to repel or kill them? In spring i see them all over by garage. when should i seal it up>? like super early in sprign before it gets warm?

[@wilbozz]

@@xGR1MxREAPERx after it warms up and they have left. Sounds like under your garage slab they are using it as a hibernaculum

[@TheDODOFRO]

In regards to a perch up, does a fake hawk or owl deter snakes from appearing in your yard???

[@wilbozz]

Unfortunately no. These are a complete waste of time. You might as well put googly eyes on a pumpkin and hope it scares snakes away. Even if a real hawk was sitting on your roof snake probably would not see it. Great question

[@uzoihe5374]

Had a bunch of new constructions close by and snakes infested a pool at one of my properties after the pool was left off for 1 month. I’m thinking of shocking the pool with chlorine mix as usual but how do I get them to leave the property after they have mated and multiplied so quickly? I know the frog and tadpoles brought them there but once I shock the pool and they leave the pool how to I stop them from digging holes all around the yard? What will make them leave? We don’t have a rodent issue.

[@sunshinet3627]

Interesting how you post a question asking for help or suggestions but he doesn't have the common courtesy to respond.

[@Amanda-Lee33]

I have a pond so I doubt a water moccasin will care about a water hose. We have seen a copperhead and cottonmouth water moccasin and I am lookin for any possible way to keep them at bay. I do not want them biting my G-Sons. I bought Mint, basil and thyme just cause the internet and sont wven know how to grow them or where to put them but three have been right at the house, help me know what to do

[@vincentdeklerk5319]

was the camera person having a fit?

[@ace9911_]

You have very adorable assistants in the background.

[@user-qo1ex9gg9i]

Useful and helpful information but the instability of the camera was not only distracting, it encourages motion sickness. Please use a phone holder in the future.

[@tj6930]

Do snakes hate the smell of any herbs you can plant? I have a hawk’s nest in my yard, do I just let them hunt off the back porch!

[@wilbozz]

I have read a few articles claiming garlic and onions, but have seen snakes move around these. Marigolds have also been mentioned, but of there are rodents a snake is going to head right to the food source. Hawks will eat snakes, excellent hunters and will definitely contribute to serpent control.

[@elizabethballenger6142]

snakes sense with tongue cant smell like most animals

[@Chrissywalters]

Does rough wood chips work as a deterrent? Or will a snake cross over this to get to where it wants to go?

[@wilbozz]

Wood chips will not deter snakes...but some contain pesticides and have killed dogs in the past.

[@Chrissywalters]

@@wilbozz oh 😟 Thanks.

[@DragerPilot]

I don’t want to be their friends, so I’ll fix cracks, mow my grass, have no rock piles, do everything to keep rodents away. I can also identify nearly every snake, BUT sticky traps, the knotted end of a lariat, a shovel, a shotgun, .a 22’s, 9mm, 45 or a are what any snake in my yard can expect. A spray of water 💦, I don’t think so. One snake to his friend, “Hey Carl, don’t go in that guys yard, he’s got water”.

[@wilbozz]

Understand not for everyone

[@TheBobelly628]

Would NOT recommend picking up a snake unless 200% certain it is not poisonous. I took care of a women in the ER with a snake bite and it was horrible horrible! We didn’t have the anti venom for the snake she was bitten by and she had to be flown out to a larger hospital for treatment. Horrible!

[@keithwatson8228]

I'm getting some ceramic eggs. Thanks for the advice. I'm not dealing with garter snakes and rat snakes. I'm dealing with copperheads, and a lot of them.

[@muhammadyaseen13002]

Thank you so much I am a medical student. Can you please mention some of the best anti-venom to keep for the first aid, before victims make to the hospital?

[@wilbozz]

It depends on where you are (species) US we use Crofab for pit vipers (rattlesnake, copperhead and water moccasin) snakebite. But I will defer to Bryan Fry the venom Doc if you have any particular international anti-venom questions, that is his expertise.

[@muhammadyaseen13002]

@@wilbozz thank you so much, appreciate it. If only you could share link as referral

[@wilbozz]

@@muhammadyaseen13002 if you're on Twitter. Tag me @TheRealWillBoss and I can get you in touch with Bryan Fry he is out of Australia but will absolutely get you the answer you need

[@muhammadyaseen13002]

@@wilbozz So much grateful for this

[@knails5638]

Acitvated Charcoal poultice will draw the venom out. Continue for several hours along with drinking the activated charcoal.

[@alihiiientertainmentmusic]

Lol your camera 🎥 man 😂😂😂, thanks for your help anyways.

[@luiguinea]

Good heavens man! Got dizzy just watching your video

[@blakkat4126]

Good information to know. Was the camera operator liquored up?

[@wilbozz]

Sorry about the camera work I need to do much better in the future

[@blakkat4126]

@@wilbozz It's fine. I was just having a little fun.

[@undercover1968ru]

I live in philippines and we have a 6ft smooth wall surrounding property but we still get pit Vipers 5 to 6 times a year within our property neighbours said they have seen a snake come through the gate on our driveway how do I keep them out obviously we can't pull wall on driveway we have no pets and yard doesn't have much grass or any food or junk we are more concerned because we have seen 2 of them ( over the years) curled up outside the door in the carport

[@larryclark4297]

Is ammonia a deterrent some people say keep it in rags put it in a sandwich bag and put it where the snakes are or where you've seen them

[@wilbozz]

Amongst other chemicals, ammonia will not keep snakes away.

[@DeeperCurrents]

Love the video mate Great info Definitely worth re shooting it with a Go Pro with stabilisation :-)

[@CDGMR1]

My mom saw one by the garage and froze of fear - legs shaking and stuff… she had no time to ask: “wonder what kind of snake this is?” 🤔🧐 by the time she came to her senses, the snake was gone.

[@wilbozz]

I can respect that, everyone has a different fear. There are snake identification groups that will always help with ID, and plenty of Free snake relocation services all over the US, outside the US there are various services depending on where you live. But the best advice I can provide is to make sure her garage doesn't have easy access to snakes (good seals), no attractants for prey species such as bird seed easily accessible, keep many things ofc the ground to avoid hiding places especially near the walls, and keep it clean as possible so insects are not attracted.

[@WildnUnruly]

Any truth to laying down volcanic rock as a way to repel them from crossing? Heard they do not like to cross over sharp objects. For obvious reasons: soft underbellies.

[@wilbozz]

Snakes don’t care about sharp edges. They would be inclined to induce snakes for a visit, as, many being dark, they get warmer from the sun. There are wide fields of dark basalt in some areas which they just use to sun themselves. That is the kind of place where snakes might hang out and make use of the lava as just described. The sharpness of the lava rocks will not stop snakes, I am certain, having seen snakes travel over sharp edges.

[@show_me_your_kitties]

The copperhead population is THRIVING here in northwest Texas. We've seen 20 in the last several weeks.. I accidentally poked one while gardening the other day lol that was crazy their natural camouflage is incredible you can not see them! I have always heard they are quick to strike and very aggressive but that one in the garden was right under me for several minutes and didn't even bite when I touched it. The water snakes are everywhere too. I just moved here and I've never in my life seen so many snakes, back home I never saw a snake maybe a couple every several years. Here they are everywhere. Help! I have 7 children and 3 dogs I worry about all the time. We keep the yard cut and organized, we don't pile things on the ground. Also what's your opinion on Irish spring soap? I hear it's not harmful to animals, just a deterrent?

[@wilbozz]

Irish spring soap will not deter snakes. If there is food, shelter, or water and snakes are already present they will continue to stay there. However, the tips in the video will make your yard more unattractive to snakes.

[@phillipcorbett3325]

Nice family effort:)

[@schiny2812]

I think the cameraman is probably just his little kid. Relax everyone.

[@justinl5723]

I live in southeast Missouri northeastern Arkansas and was wondering what poisonous snakes are in my area I should be worried about?

[@wilbozz]

Southern copperheads, western cottonmouths, Eastern diamondback rattlesnakes, western pygmy rattlesnakes, Texas coral snakes , and timber rattlesnakes all live in Arkansas. They don't want contact with humans and if you follow the recommendations in the video you will have less snakes on your property.

[@ducksinarowpatience3670]

The advice to keep snakes away is to understand they have a purpose, cut your grass , and keep rocks set tightly.

[@jaykay46]

Snake:Maybe if a play dead he might let me go.😂

[@geegaw1535]

Ive got chickens. Caught one stealing eggs and killed it. Not having it. Cats will work won't they? How am i sposed to live without eggs or meat chickens? Tell me that

[@kathyfann]

Thank You

[@beanlowrey6433]

Well I'm In Ohio and a 2cnd snake got in my Sister's house. My nephew was crying and he usually don't cry when he sees snakes, squirrels or mice. This time him and his sisters were petrified.

[@tenmangaming]

Found two copperheads in my backyard today so what product do you recommend ? I got my garden hose which is my defense

[@wilbozz]

So to be clear no product. Things like snake away don't work at all. But you can make your yard less appealing to snakes. There is some really good hard fence material that deters most snakes (it is hard like chicken wire) buried a few inches down. But making it less appealing is the best you can do, piles of Rocks, loose boards, tin on the ground ect. Also keep dog/pets fed inside. Leaves are greatcover for copperheads make sure you have a very clean yard as far as debris. Without seeing your yard and the exact specs these are a few recommendations I can make on best practices and the science that works.

[@tenmangaming]

@@wilbozz I have a dog which I want to make sure he is safe. I put moth balls down and I did buy some snake away but I have a shed in my back yard and it isn't closed off at the bottom which I think they make be nesting cooling there

[@wilbozz]

@@tenmangaming moth balls will do nothing for snakes, but they will poison/kill your dog. And yes seal up the openings under your shed some good wire material will work...vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/mothball-toxicity-in-dogs#:~:text=Mothballs%20contain%20a%20high%20concentration,occurs%20when%20dogs%20ingest%20mothballs.&text=Ingestion%20of%20naphthalene%20mothballs%20can,and%20kidney%20or%20liver%20damage.

[@tenmangaming]

@@wilbozz I put the mothballs out of reach for him so he cant get it

[@tenmangaming]

@@wilbozz so yeah I am going to close it up but I'm trying to avoid them altogether

[@dillionchatman5010]

the snakes purpose in my backyard today was too kill my chickens. he said hello to my sharpest shovel 😂 all black with a little white underneath. Great video tho

[@laurawilliams1065]

Anyone think the toddler who's in the background is holding the recording devise. Can't finish watching. Headache

[@wilbozz]

Nice observation, definitely have to have adults film

[@MarkWilson-vk1kn]

Electrified fence! Works well!

[@66bigbuds]

Moth balls go under the house. They work for skunks and mice. They help with spiders too.

[@splash4891]

Thanks for stressing the part about not killing and not using toxic substances....just because something is unwanted (snakes, spiders, rodents, etc.) does not mean they deserve to be destroyed...we are all connected to the web of life. I feel its best to prevent or discourage them from entering an area in the first place, like you pointed out. So, is it safe to say that snakes don't care about rough texture when moving about (volcanic rock or other rough surfaces don't deter them) so is that the same for diatomaceous earth? Do snakes not have a sense of smell just like they cannot hear? I am guessing garlic, clove and other essential oils also won't deter them either? I live in a wooded area and its really close to the house, less than 15 feet in some areas...so not much I can do about that as its a rental...wish I knew about this sooner, I would've not rented this place. I like the idea about the hose spraying but sometimes I think the hose is a snake....lol

[@wilbozz]

1st Thank you. 2nd snakes do have a great sense of smell but yea essential oils, clove garlic will not deter them. They also have internal ears and can hear through vibrations. I understand about a rental situation and not being able to adjust the habitat, but perhaps if you have alot of concerns speak to your landlord about making a less attractive environment to snakes.

[@splash4891]

@@wilbozz thanks for this, yes, I knew snakes feel vibrations but do they feel me yelling at them when they enter my carport and doorway and then chasing them away with my broomstick....lol...OK, so good to know about sense of smell...but sad nothing stinky/pungent deters them...argh. I did tell my landlord but she responds..."that's florida you have to expect snakes"...anyways, I will try again tho...maybe get a hawk, owl, etc...I do have a gazillion hawks flying around all the time...but never seen any come by close....I have heeded all your other advice, which was excellent info (keep lawn short, don't feed animals outside, don't have junk lying around) but I still have them around....I wish I had the ability to desensitize myself from snakes and spiders for that matter...maybe get hypnotized...lol

[@wilbozz]

@@splash4891 if you're in Florida I am also a member of a snake relocation group and if there is a particular snake you are concerned with there is a whole list of people who will come and relocate it for free. If you're on Facebook look up free snake relocation group and there is a PDF with names and contact information

[@splash4891]

@@wilbozz that is amazing there is such a group that does this, thanks for the info....but the only trick is to catch Mr. Snake in a timely manner...but I will look into it...closed my FBI acct. but will reconsider opening it....

[@wilbozz]

@@splash4891 Free Snake Relocation Directory - www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=15dZE4rlRHqjb91yb6pKiI4ragG8DCtsz&usp=sharing here is a link to free snake relocation services around the US

[@orkidokomlan8544]

This guy got his kid to record the video. 😂😂😂 There goes your yawning.

[@bob.fagg-bois657]

How would i keep them away from a rockery with waterfall and pond, i have a large pond adjacent to my property which has lots of snakes and rodents?

[@wilbozz]

It depends on the species. If they are rodent eating snakes such as rat snakes, you can easily reduce the rodent population using a reusable rodent trap(I demonstrate one in another video called humane rodent trap). Keep your plants short around the pond, remove mulch(they love mulch as it stays warm as it decomposes just like compost). Depending on where you live there are free snake relocation services (I am a member of one in New mexico) if you have water moccasins.

[@bob.fagg-bois657]

@@wilbozz i live in France (europe) the snake are more like adders and they are at the property i am just buying, but i wanted to do some research before i arrive. short of my air rifle i don`t know much about snakes and we have 3 cats, 2 dogs and a 13 year old daughter undergoing cancer treatment, so we need to be prepared before we arrive. all advice appreciated.

[@wilbozz]

@@bob.fagg-bois657 extremely unlikely to have an issue with asps or adders in France. In the southeast of France where aspis lives there is usually 1 deadly envenomation per 10 years, and usually from people picking 1 up. Your dogs will be curious so keep the yard free of debris and places for snakes to hide (wood piles, rocks) and keep your vegetation low. This will help make your yard less attractive to snakes.

[@whoyg]

Love the advice. Please get a tripod. I couldn't watch. It was making me dizzy. Had to put the phone down and just listen

[@jmt979]

Great video. I recommend watching the video before posting. The camera person is shaking like a leaf. Great points but an unwatchable video. Thank you for the info.

[@wilbozz]

Absolutely. I need to redo the video one day.

[@donnabarber9754]

Apparently he doesn’t have cottonmouths or copperheads, I’m looking for someway to keep them away I’m certainly not gonna spray one with a waterhose, we’ve already found 2 copperheads and it’s just march thanks for your video

[@wilbozz]

I live in Florida, I do not have copperheads, but I do have cottonmouths, and 2 rattlesnake species. I understand some people are not fans of snakes at all. I have captured dozens of copperheads in Virginia and Connecticut and they definitely would not want to be sprayed with a hose and would move, but taking away their home (leaves, logs, ect and other things mentioned in the video). Will help make it so they don't want to be there. Basically make the environment non attractive to snakes.

[@mariajackson2570]

Yeah. Oh don’t want to see snake on my property ever for any reason. They can die a quick or slow death. I don’t care! Now I do like the owl idea. Thanks

[@user-id9kj1nz9c]

Please hold the camera still. It would improve the watch ability greatly.

[@wilbozz]

I agree completely, I will work on that in the future.

[@cristinacruz6493]

Hi. I love your videos. I live in Louisiana and recently did a garden project where I laid out a black weed tarp around my property and gardens to prevent weeds. I lightly mulched over the black tarp with pine needles. I have since noticed more snakes on my property. Could it be that they enjoy living under the thick black tarp? I would have thought this would be too hot an environment for them and have little food. Hope to hear back from you.

[@wilbozz]

Absolutely. You have created a nice place for them to gather especially when cold. I generally stay away from mulch because of the arsenic which will kill dogs if eaten, but you can find mulch without it. There are books about "tinning' a process where you flip tin and other items in abandoned lots or on the side if the road on the southeast to find snakes. If the tarp is buried and tight to the ground it makes it more difficult but not impossible for snakes to get under. As much as u hate plastics, the bags from your mulch can be used to keep out weeds and if they are clear they will not be attractive to snakes.

[@winniethepoohandeeyore2]

Ehhhh I've got garters and bull snakes living under my house.

[@Cruz_239]

Great advice! I listened to it, I couldn’t watch it though, headache guarantee!

[@WW-ob7ek]

The one taking the video is actually a COBRA 🐍

[@wilbozz]

A cobra jamming out to music

[@106harlem]

Looks like the one that’s been hanging around my house I’m terrified I want it gone

[@turnaroundcommunityproject1611]

Who held the camera, wow....but yes, indormative

[@desert-walker]

I’m a little bit dizzy from the shaking camera but good advice

[@ususa8052]

Two things I noticed: 1) camera person should not smoke weed before filming. 2) playing with your snake on TV is a turn off. 🤨

[@wilbozz]

Both are accurate statements. I agree

[@homosapien0000]

My dog almost got bit by a copperhead. This is war.

[@theshiv5288]

Great information but please refrain from filming on a boat next time....I am now dizzy but also more knowledgeable.

[@alysonenos3373]

How do I get a gopher snake out of my snake I think he wanted the mouse I had but that’s dead now long gone I just want the snake to now please move out so very kindly please

[@vinmat3558]

Good advice but please teach your camera person to keep the camera still. Jumping camera is very annoying.

[@debbiemoller1594]

I live in Australia and had a brown snake in my front yard now I'm seeing holes in the grown can cat urine deture snakes

[@wilbozz]

Cats are predators that will hunt snakes, but their urine will not keep snakes out, but some smaller snakes might be deterred. If there are rodents or amphibians around the snakes will be attracted to them even if cat urine is all over, they may avoid the urine and go straight to the prey source. A large python can also eat a cat, and a venomous snake like a brown can easily kill a cat with its venom. Best advice is to make your yard less attractive to both prey species and the snakes.

[@BigNatorStrength]

I understand they have their place In nature and my koi pond is a breeding ground for frog activity lol so I understand why they are visiting me, however.....they keep messing with my fish and something's gotta give lol

[@Jay-se2ym]

I picked the snake up in my yard and snapped it like a whip and it's head flew off

[@marvinlashley7358]

Where have these people been shot by police officers while trying to shoot a snake?

[@wilbozz]

Here is 1 of unfortunately several: 5 year old boy killed by police while fishing, the police officer was trying to shoot a snake...www.actionnews5.com/story/6891311/police-officer-shooting-at-snake-apparently-kills-boy-fishing-with-granddad-in-oklahoma/?outputType=amp

[@debbiecritcher8436]

His kids must have been filming this.

[@hotbam37]

I don't find helpful snakes, Killed 3 copperheads this week next to my house. Need real good way to get them out of our yard so they don't kill my dogs.

[@devyud5719]

You didn’t mention the most effective way. Throw some kerosene .. it’s slow and painful though.

[@askip7]

Video Title - How To Keep Snakes Away From Your Home 75% of Video Content - Snakes Are Awesome!

[@vidarbhagaming420]

I kid filming this feeling sleepy he might be thinking haaaa finish it dad,

[@wilbozz]

You are correct, should always make sure my free labor is not tired during any filming. Maybe I can bribe them with snacks next time.

[@maximerlin]

@@wilbozz Amazon sells a tripod priced at $17.49!! Great upgrade for your channel!!!

[@wilbozz]

@@maximerlin wildlife biologists should never be allowed to make videos unsupervised. It is actually easier to write a wildlife assessment, definitely need to improve my camera skills. Thank you

[@jasperjayalqueza2149]

What snake are you holding ? Is that venomous?

[@wilbozz]

Just an eastern rat snake, harmless and great for rodent control.(Pantherophis alleghaniensis)

[@christianeconomupro.3498]

I have rattle snakes at my house does hot sauce work?

[@wilbozz]

If you're trying to eat cooked rattlesnake and give them flavor, then yes. But if you are trying to keep them away, no hot sauce will not deter them from your home.

[@nonsindisomtolo3589]

Carrying a snake made it difficult to follow this video, some of us want to repel them because we are scared 😫

[@wilbozz]

I understand, and I should probably make an alternate video without holding a snake.