Snakes

What are Snakes?

Snakes are limbless reptiles belonging to the suborder Serpentes. Most species of snakes have skulls with several more joints than their lizard ancestors and relatives, enabling them to swallow prey much larger than their own heads. Living snakes are found on every continent except Antarctica and some islands. Sea snakes are widespread throughout the Indian and Pacific oceans. Well-known snakes include Cobra, Python, Krait, Viper, and Boa.

All snakes may be venomous to a certain degree, with harmless snakes having weak venom and no fangs. Some snakes possess venom that is potent enough to cause painful injury or death to humans. Cobras, vipers, and closely related species use venom to immobilize, injure, or kill their prey.

In India, 250,000 snakebites are recorded in a single year, with as many as 50,000 recorded initial deaths. Nonfatal bites from venomous snakes may result in the need for amputation of a limb or part thereof.

Prevention of Snakes Infestation

1. Make sure common pests that snakes like to eat are kept under control, to avoid attracting snakes looking for food.

2. Mow your garden regularly and keep the grass length minimal to avoid any hidden predators.

3. Clear away bush areas that snakes might be able to use as shelter.

4. Eliminate still water in your garden wherever possible.

5. Use solar powered pest repellents, which use a combination of vibration and sound to keep snakes and rodents away.

6. Blend garlic with water and spray on possible entries for snakes into the house.

7. Sprinkle epsom salt around the areas of their possible habitat.

8. Sulfur can be sprayed around the perimeter of the property to repel snakes.

9. Use snake-repellant plants like marigolds, lemongrass, wormwood, onion, and garlic in the garden.