How to keep Copperheads away?

[rockyridgefarm]

I have a friend that has a huge copperhead problem. His property is bordered on two sides with state park land. And his place is crawling with copperheads. Almost every night they see one, a few or a wriggling mass of them! He has killed lots of them, lost some dogs to them and his wife has been bit, too.

Is there a good way to create a 'border' that these critters won't cross. What keeps 'em away?

Thanks!!

 

[hobbyfarm]

I've heard (and perhaps it's an old wive's tale) that snakes will not cross a rope or old garden hose. /forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif
You might give it a try.
I've also heard of this:
<font color="teal">Snake Away</font>
I have no idea how practical it is to expect a "snake free" area.
I'd bet education is the best bet.

 

[Slamfire]

I think he needs a whole flock of king snakes. /forums/images/graemlins/laugh.gif

 

[LMTC]

Checked that site and main ingredient is apparently Naphthalene--if I'm not mistaken, that's also the main ingredient in moth balls. Hmmmm. No wonder snakes don't attack moths. /forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif

Check this link ToxFAQs™ for some info about naphthalene, including why people don't want too much exposure to it. I'll bet you can buy flakes for moth control a for a lot less than the snake stuff is selling for.

I would second the king snake thing...seriously. Perhaps talk with a biologist (state wildlife, etc) as to the viability of king snakes surviving in your area, and if it is good, find some place to buy a few (making sure to get male & female). They WILL put a dent in the rest of the snake population. Here's a place that came up on Google to buy snakesThat Pet Place

 

[EddieWalker]

I have no first hand knowledge, but have heard stories from others that some guard animals will kill snakes. Donkies, Llamas and Geese. Again, don't know if it's true or not.

I have seen Pronghorn Antlelope kill a snake and heard about them killing coyotes, but that's not a practical solution.

The one thing I would try to do is minimize the reason they are there. Habitat and food. Lawn isn't very attractive to snakes. Wide open, exposed and nothing to eat.

Eddie

 

[DHennet]

Bring your friend any King or Black snakes you have on your property. Both are territorial and will not tolerate Copperheads. Also make sure he does not have any wood piles around the house. Does he have a pig or two? Pigs will help. I've watched my chickens eat baby snakes too? Don't know if they were Copperheads or not...

 

[txdon]

Guineas might work, if they don't you can always eat them.
Some people say Peacocks eat snakes.
I have no first hand experience with either just another avenue to investigate.

 

[XANDROS_user]

Recomend cedar chips. The aroma seems to confuse their senses and they avoid the area. Have used cedar chips in the well house etc. Tis only good for a season (or as long as the aroma lasts).

 

[daedong]

Try cats

 

[rockyridgefarm]

Good clues Thanks!!

Vin, I have tried cats. I use a lot of picante sause on mine.... /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif