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Signs you may have snakes in your home or yard

It is rare to see snakes in the U.S. If you do spot one, it will usually be between July and September when they are at their most active. They tend to emerge a bit earlier, in March or April, and remain active as late as October, but are generally most active during the warmest months. Properties with tall grass, undergrowth, woodpiles, or otherwise wildlife-friendly features can attract snake activity, but often the animal is just passing through.

Why you should learn to spot snake activity

In short, steering clear of snakes is the best defence against snakebites. Most bites occur when snakes are accidentally disturbed and feel threatened — so if you can spot the signs of snakes before seeing the snake itself, you can take precautions such as avoiding the area or contacting a snake control expert.

Have you spotted snakes?

Call Ehrlich today for advice and to schedule a snake inspection of your home or business or contact us now.

Common signs of snakes in the house

When snakes make their way indoors, they usually leave clues behind. Recognizing these early signs can help you spot whether you are dealing with a single intruder or a potential snake infestation. Homes with basements, attics, or unused storage areas are more likely to show evidence of snake activity.

A shed snake skin

Shed snake skins

Finding a shed skin indoors is one of the clearest signs of a snake in the house. Snakes shed several times a year, and these skins can be  found along walls, in attics, or in crawl spaces.

A shed skin usually appears dry, thin, and almost transparent. If you notice multiple skins in different areas, it could suggest ongoing snake activity rather than a one-time visit.

Snake tracks

Slither tracks on dusty or dirty surfaces

Winding, S-shaped patterns across dust or dirt in your basement or garage could indicate recent snake activity. These slither tracks often appear in undisturbed areas where snakes pass through unnoticed. Tracks near potential entry points, like gaps under doors or around windows, may suggest how snakes are getting inside.

A coiled snake

Unusual odors or musky smells

A lingering, musky odor may be linked to a snake infestation. Snakes release certain scents during shedding, digestion, or when stressed. This smell is often most pungent in enclosed spaces such as attics or basements. While odors alone are not proof of snake activity, they can be an important warning when combined with other signs of snakes.

Snake droppings

Snake droppings can look similar to bird droppings but may contain bits of fur, bone, or scales from prey. You might find droppings along baseboards, in storage areas, or near crawl spaces. Because droppings can resemble those from other animals, it’s best to look for them alongside other signs of snakes in the house to confirm a possible snake problem. If in doubt, contact a pest control professional.

Where you might find snakes in your yard or garden

Outdoor spaces provide many opportunities for snake activity. Knowing what to look for can help you identify whether a snake problem is developing.

  • Piles of wood, rocks, or debris stacked against walls
  • Dense shrubs or vegetation that provide cover
  • Compost heaps or cluttered corners inside outbuildings
  • Sunlit patches near sheds or under porches

Here are a few signs to look:

Snake tracks in sand, soil, or mulch

Winding patterns in soil, mulch, or sand may be slither tracks left by a moving snake. These trails may appear after rainfall or early in the morning when the soil is damp, making them easier to spot.

Holes or burrows used for shelter

Empty burrows or holes near shrubs, fences, or patios may be signs of snakes in your yard. Snakes often use abandoned rodent tunnels for shelter. Multiple burrows in one area may point to ongoing snake activity.

Sunning spots on rocks or patios

Snakes may bask in the sun to regulate their body temperature. Regular sightings on rocks, patios, or driveways could indicate a nearby snake problem.

What are the signs of a snake den?

A snake den may show multiple signs of snakes, such as several shed skins, concentrated slither tracks, or clusters of snake droppings. Burrows, hollow logs, or spaces under foundations can be used for dens. If you suspect a den, avoid disturbing it and contact our professionals for snake removal.

Confirmed the signs? We can help

If you’re seeing repeated signs of snakes in the garage, yard, or home, it may be more than a passing visit. Our technicians can assess the situation, look for hidden snake activity, potential entry points, and provide tailored recommendations. With professional support, you’ll have a clearer plan for addressing a possible snake infestation and better protecting your property.

 

Deter snakes from entering your property

To deter snakes there are a few things you can do:

  • Mow grass regularly to keep it short.
  • Clear low growing plants and shrubs that provide cover.
  • Remove, debris, wood or log piles. Keep compost heaps in a sealed bin.
  • Fill holes that they can hide in – under sheds, patios and walls.
  • Putting close fitting fences or walls around ponds can be a deterrent.

Frequently asked questions

It’s possible. A single snake could just be passing through, but multiple signs of snakes may point to a larger issue, such as a nearby snake den.

Yes. Water sources attract both prey and snakes. If you live near a lake, pond, or stream, watch for signs of snakes in your yard.

Snakes often hide in dark, quiet spots like basements, attics, or crawl spaces. They may enter through cracks or gaps in walls.

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Find out more about snake bites, the dangerous species, and how to avoid them.