Snakes remain one of the most feared creatures worldwide, not only for their silent movements but also for the deadly venom some species carry. Experts warn that their ability to hide and crawl undetected makes them a constant threat, especially when certain conditions around homes attract them. (News18 Tamil)
Some of these might even appear harmless to us, yet they create the perfect environment for snakes to settle in. (News18 Tamil)
If you want to reduce the chances of snakes entering your home or garden, it is essential to identify and remove these risk factors. Here are five common elements that can unknowingly attract snakes close to human dwellings. (News18 Tamil)
Water Bodies And Plants Around Them: Small ponds and water features in gardens attract frogs and insects, both primary food sources for snakes. Plants such as lotus and lily, which thrive in water, also provide a favourable habitat. The soft stems of these plants offer cover, while the water creates a natural environment for snakes to live and hunt. (News18 Tamil)
Ground-Covering Plants: Thick ground vegetation, such as English ivy or periwinkle, creates a cool and moist shelter. These plants not only attract insects but also provide a secure hiding place for snakes. The dense cover makes it easy for them to remain unnoticed while searching for food. (News18 Tamil)
Dense Trees And Shrubs: Bushes, particularly berry-bearing ones, attract birds, insects, and small animals, which in turn attract snakes. The thorny and dense structure of such plants offers excellent protection. Similarly, tall grass lawns are often home to mice, making them ideal hunting grounds for snakes. (News18 Tamil)
Leaf Piles And Rotting Material: Garden leaf piles, often left for composting, become damp and warm over time, making them attractive to insects and rodents. This, in turn, makes them a perfect hiding and feeding spot for snakes. The decomposition process also generates heat, further drawing reptiles towards these piles. (News18 Tamil)
Strongly Scented Plants: Contrary to popular belief, keeping fragrant plants like chrysanthemum, jasmine or manipoo does not repel snakes. Instead, many believe that their strong scent may actually draw them closer to homes. (News18 Tamil)
To prevent snakes from entering your surroundings, simple precautions can go a long way. Regularly clean gardens, trim overgrown grass, avoid keeping stagnant water bodies, and remove leaf piles or rotting waste. By keeping these risk factors in check, one can significantly reduce the chances of snakes slithering close to your home. (News18 Tamil)
