How to Rattlesnake-Proof a Backyard

Rattlesnakes aren't a common household problem, but, depending on your locale, they can sliter onto your property and throw everyone into a panic. You can prevent these creatures from invading your yard by taking some precautions.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Build and Maintain a Rattlesnake-Proof Fence

1. Purchase fencing that is solid or contains mesh with spacing of 1/4 inch or less. Make sure the fence is at least 3-feet tall.
2. Bury at least 2 inches of the fence underground to prevent rattlesnakes from burrowing underneath.
3. Angle the fence away from the property at a 30-degree angle.
4. Avoid planting trees or shrubs near the fence. Snake are good climbers, and they can then drop into the backyard if vegetation is close to the fence.

Maintain the Backyard

5. Remove debris piles in the yard. Rattlesnakes favor hiding under rocks or old boards, waiting for unsuspecting rodents to wander by. Be careful when removing the debris, in case a snake is already there.
6. Utilize nonvenomous snakes to rid the yard of rattlesnakes. The king snake will kill and eat rattlers. Gopher snakes and racers are proprietary and will force rattlesnakes to leave the area.
7. Examine the ground in the backyard. Fill in all gopher and mole holes to prevent rattlesnakes from taking up residence in them.
8. Trim all shrubbery in the backyard so there is a visible clearance between the greenery and the ground. This removes potential hiding spots for snakes.

Tips & Warnings

• If there is a rattlesnake in the backyard, do not approach it. Take all pets and children to safety, then call animal control to remove the snake.

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