AS warmer weather comes to the ACT, Canberra Snake Rescue and Relocation is providing tips to minimise the risk of “negative snake encounters”.

Snakes like to be squished between tight spaces and like cover at ground level, an expert from the rescue organisation says.

Removing that cover removes hiding areas for them. This cover can include unnecessary clutter from around the home like rubbish, tin sheeting, tarps, rock or wood piles.

Snake Rescue also recommends trimming plants back off frequently walked areas such as footpaths and cutting crass to a shorter length.

“This is to aid in having a clear line of sight of areas you’re going to be regularly, if there is a snake, you hopefully will see it to avoid stepping on it,” says the expert.

“You still want areas around the yard (in the garden) which are reptile friendly and some gaps in your fence – areas where both snakes and lizards can flee to/under in order to avoid conflict with you or your pet. If they are stuck in the open, they are much more likely to be defensive.”

Snake Rescue says it’s also important to elevate water sources.

“Try to avoid leaving water at ground level, such as dog bowls,” says the expert.

“If you leave water out for wildlife such as birds, elevate it in a raised bird bath for example. Snakes can climb for water but are less likely to do so if there are easier options around.

“If you have birds (namely chickens) you need to try your absolute best to make sure their enclosure is as clean as possible. Chicken feed will bring in rodents and thus attract snakes – get on top of that pest control!”

And finally, they say, snake repellents don’t work so don’t waste time and money on them.

“Making your property snake proof is incredibly difficult, and in many cases, impossible,” says the expert.

“What you are really trying to achieve is a space that a snake will spend as little time as possible in. And, if they are there, an area that you are easily able to see them in. Most importantly, you want spaces that these snakes can flee to if they happened to feel threatened, rather than feeling like they need to defend themselves.”

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