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Getting Rid of Garter Snakes

We have garden snakes. I am so scared of them and have seen so many of them that by now I don't want to be nice anymore and want them killed. We already built a porch in front of the house to avoid them, but this is a sunny area and they like to be around. I got used to them in the garden, but yesterday I found one inside the porch and I am ready to move. Help anyone? I am scared to death.

Hardiness Zone: 7b

By Ravine House from Toronto, ON

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RE: Getting Rid of Garter Snakes

I am terrified of garter snakes on the island where I live. I can't stand the way they move or look and I am developing serious panic attacks out in my yard while trying to weed whack or pull weeds. I cannot bear to be within 10 feet of them so picking them up is not remotely an option. It does not matter if they won't hurt although I keep reading they can bite. I thought they moved away when you got near but I have mowed right over them by accident in my riding mower and the weed whacker doesn't even get them going. Thus, I am terrified to be on my knees to reach in under a bush for weeding. They're slow and then suddenly they race. Totally disgusting and gag inducing. I am starting to twitch outside in anticipation of coming across one and can't relax. Enough about the phobia--please just don't tell me to pick one up. You people with the duct tape stories have totally freaked me out!

I bought a Liquid Fence product for snake repellent: very pricey in concentrate form. It did not work for a minute but it stinks all around my house now, as I tried another two gallons of it, hoping. It's not the Snake Away product that came with many cancer warnings...supposedly all natural. Has anyone tried both to compare? I sprayed it right over them with a long spray wand and it barely phased them. I have thrown out tons of mothballs and no luck. All I have done is cause a huge stink. Isn't sulfur powder going to be even worse, and isn't there seriously something else? I hate cats and don't want a cat bringing a dead snake up to my doormat as a "gift" so that's out; besides, neighboring cats sit in my back yard and it is obviously doing no good.

Please, I am so desperate. Any other ideas or any comments regarding whether the Liquid Fence is worthless compared to Snake Away? Is it worth buying the other brand?

Post by StephanieK

RE: Getting Rid of Garter Snakes

Hi, I understand your fear because snakes can be startling with their fast movements, and unexpected presence. After your initial fright it is important to think rationally though. Your property will be in worse shape without the snakes than with them. They are there for a reason. They destroy pests that are more harmful such as rats and other rodents. They help in the balance of nature. By all means use deterents such as snake away, but please don't kill them, they mean you no harm and are actually beneficial.

Post by merlene

RE: Getting Rid of Garter Snakes

Hello, I live in FL., and we have lots of snakes here. I have a fear of them also so I understand where you're coming from. It doesn't help when people tell you to get over your phobia. Snakes, spiders, fear of the dark, and thunder and lightning are the 4 biggest fears. My Dr. told me so.
Anyway, you can buy a product called "snake-a-way". You sprinkle it around the area where you've seen them. For whatever reason they don't like the stuff and will leave. It smells just like mothballs, but it must have something more in it. I tried the mothball thing and walked outside only to find this huge black snake slithering right over the mothballs!
Once again, don't let anybody tell you to "get over it". I myself can't wait until I can move from FL. Wherever I go, it's going to be a condo with no yards to take care of.

Post by lovethosehounds

RE: Getting Rid of Garter Snakes

Mothballs and get a cat. They are good snakes. I have them too and have had them for years. They scare you when you are working in the yard but I work anyway. I have yorkies and they catch them for me.

Post by angel3210

RE: Getting Rid of Garter Snakes

Rat Terriers love snakes. Get a cat. Move to Ireland..(just kidding). Work on getting over your phobia. Garter snakes are "good" snakes. Good luck! MykalA

Post by MykalA

RE: Getting Rid of Garter Snakes

Go to your local garden center and ask for some sulphur. Then, spread it by hand (cannot use spreader as it is too sticky) around your porch, and around the perimeter of your yard if it's not too big. At any rate, spread it in a line around anywhere you will be. For some reason, snakes won't cross sulphur. Tried & true! Good luck and God bless you.

Post by tedsmom

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