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Does Lava Rock Repel Snakes?

Writer Caleb Butler

Only lava rock has been shown to deter snakes. Place lava rocks around structures to keep snakes away from them while they bask in the sun. The University of Nebraska Extension recommends that lava rock be 2 to 3 feet wide and 5 to 6 inches deep. Snakes can’t get through fences or screens with holes smaller than 1/16th of an inch.

Silky Terrier Dog Breed Playing Aro... Silky Terrier Dog Breed Playing Around

What kind of rocks keep snakes away?

Instead, use gravel or river rock, which are smaller and more easily fit into nooks and crannies. Avoid water gardens and Koi ponds in your landscaping as well. Get an energy audit, seal cracks and crevices on the sidewalks and foundations, and consider sealing them.

Do snakes avoid rocks?

A Snake’s Favorite Habit is to HideLarge rocks and mulch should be avoided, according to the Field Ecology website, in favor of river rock or gravel (source). The reasoning behind this is that larger rocks provide more cover. When they’re out in the open, snakes don’t like it.

What kind of mulch keeps snakes away?

Snakes may also find shelter in piles of unused mulch or a thick layer of hardwood or pine straw mulch (greater than six inches thick).

What smell do snakes hate?

Smoke, cinnamon, cloves, onions, garlic, and lime are just a few of the odors that snakes dislike. Aromatic oils and sprays can be used, as well as plants that produce these scents.

Do snakes hide in rock walls?

Snakes are protected by these rock walls, but they are also fed by them. The easy shelter rock walls provide for rodents and smaller reptiles (lizards) is essentially food for the snakes that also live in the rock walls.