How to Keep Snakes Away from Your North Carolina Property This November

As November brings cooler temperatures across North Carolina, many residents begin to spend more time enjoying the crisp autumn air. This seasonal shift also influences the behavior of local wildlife, including snakes, which may become more noticeable as they prepare for winter. An unexpected encounter with a snake can be unsettling for any homeowner, making it important to understand their habits and how to proactively manage your property. This guide is designed to provide homeowners with reliable information on snake activity in the fall and offer effective, practical strategies for keeping them away from your yard and home. Implementing a proactive plan is the most effective approach to snake prevention in North Carolina.

Understanding November Snake Behavior

Snakes are ectothermic, or cold-blooded, meaning they rely on external sources to regulate their body temperature. As the days shorten and temperatures drop in North Carolina, their behavior changes significantly.

The Search for Warmth and Shelter

Snakes become less active in the cold, but before they enter a state of brumation (a hibernation-like state for reptiles), they must find a suitable place to wait out the winter. During sunny November days, you might see them basking on warm surfaces like driveways, rocks, or dark-colored mulch to absorb heat. As temperatures fall, they seek out insulated shelters, which can include animal burrows, rock piles, dense brush, and unfortunately, crawl spaces, sheds, or even gaps in a home’s foundation.

Following the Food Source

Fall is also a busy time for rodents like mice and voles, which are a primary food source for many snake species. As these pests seek shelter in and around homes to escape the cold, snakes will often follow. An increase in rodent activity on your property can directly lead to an increase in snake sightings.

Common North Carolina Snakes and Potential Risks

North Carolina is home to 38 native snake species, the vast majority of which are non-venomous and play a beneficial role in the ecosystem by controlling rodent populations. However, it is crucial for public health and well-being to be aware of the six venomous species found in the state.

• Non-Venomous Snakes: Common non-venomous species include the Garter Snake, Black Racer, and Rat Snake. These snakes are harmless to humans and are a sign of a healthy environment.
• Venomous Snakes: The venomous species in North Carolina are the Copperhead, Cottonmouth (Water Moccasin), Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake, Timber Rattlesnake, Pigmy Rattlesnake, and Eastern Coral Snake. While these snakes are not aggressive, they will bite if they feel threatened or cornered.

Given the potential danger, it is always best to treat any unidentified snake with caution and respect its space.

Effective Strategies for Snake Prevention in North Carolina

The most reliable strategy for keeping snakes off your property involves habitat modification. By making your yard a less attractive environment for them, you encourage them to move elsewhere.

Eliminate Potential Shelter

A tidy yard offers few places for snakes to hide.

• Maintain Landscaping: Keep your lawn mowed short and trim dense vegetation, especially around your home’s foundation. This removes cover for snakes and makes them more visible.
• Remove Debris: Clear away piles of leaves, wood, rocks, and other debris. Store firewood on a raised rack at least 20 feet away from your house. These are prime hiding spots for snakes and their prey.

Remove Food and Water Sources

• Address Rodent Issues: Secure trash cans with tight-fitting lids and remove any outdoor pet food bowls after feeding to avoid attracting rodents. Make sure all leftovers are sealed to keep inside rodents out. Addressing a rodent problem is a critical step for long-term snake prevention in North Carolina.
• Control Moisture: Repair leaky outdoor faucets and ensure proper drainage to eliminate standing water, which can attract snakes and the animals they feed on.

Secure Your Home’s Exterior

Prevent snakes from finding their way inside your home.

• Inspect and Seal: Carefully inspect your home’s foundation, siding, and areas around utility pipes for any cracks or openings. Seal these gaps with caulk or expanding foam.
• Secure Vents and Doors: Install durable, fine-mesh screens over crawl space vents and ensure doors have weather stripping to create a tight seal.

By taking these preventative steps, you can create a healthier environment for your family and reduce the likelihood of unwanted snake encounters this fall.

While these strategies are highly effective, a direct encounter with a snake, particularly if you suspect it is venomous, requires professional assistance. Never attempt to handle or capture a snake yourself. If you have a persistent issue with snakes on your property or need help identifying and safely removing one, contact a certified wildlife management professional. A snake removal expert can provide a comprehensive solution that ensures both your well-being and the humane treatment of the animal.