If you’re considering snake repellent around the home, you’re not alone. Australia has a huge variety of snakes, both venomous and non-venomous. In fact, data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare has revealed there were 539 hospitalisations due to venomous snakes in 2021-22. Another 1,829 hospitalisations were due to non-venomous snakes, lizards and other reptiles.
What’s more, is that information compiled by the Australian Venom Research Unit and published in Toxicon Journal found there were 35 deaths from snake bites in Australia between 2000 and 2016. Most of those were caused by brown snakes and more than half occurred in or near the home. So if you want to keep yourself and your loved ones safe, here’s what to know about snake repellents – and some options to consider. It’s unlikely you want to be one of those statistics, so how can you deter snakes? Do snake repellents really work? Let’s take a look.
A guide to keeping snakes away from your home
The most effective way to deter snakes is by using sound or smell. Snakes feel threatened by sounds that have loud vibrations, while strong smells such as vinegar, ammonia and essential oils are an irritant to snakes.
Snakes detect sound through vibration – it’s how they locate prey and is also how they detect hazards and risks. If the vibration is loud enough they’ll perceive it as a threat and stay away. So, most solar and battery powered snake deterrents are based on this premise.
By emitting ultrasonic vibrations into the ground, snake repellents send a message to the reptile that there’s a threat nearby, which keeps them at bay.
These tips and tricks do not guarantee prevention or safety from any snakes. Please always be vigilant around snakes or other reptiles.
A word of caution…
What do snakes hate the most?
While vibration is a great way to deter snakes, another way to keep them out of your yard is through smell. Some scents, like ammonia and certain essential oils, can be irritating to a snake’s sensitive sensory organs. Snakes rely heavily on their sense of smell to locate prey, navigate, and detect potential threats.
When they encounter strong or irritating scents, it can cause discomfort and make them less likely to explore or remain in the area.
Natural snake deterrent: What scent will keep snakes away?
- Clove oil: Not just good for killing mould, clove oil has a strong and pungent scent that snakes dislike. Mix clove oil with water and spray it around areas where you want to keep snakes away.
- Cinnamon oil: Cinnamon oil is another strong-smelling scent that can deter snakes. Use it in the same way you would clove oil, (diluting it with water and spraying it in snake-prone areas).
- Onion and garlic: The pungent odour of onion and garlic can help deter snakes. Planting these vegetables around you garden or yard may help keep snakes away.
- Lemongrass and citrus: Lemongrass and citrus plants are two more scents snakes don’t like.
- Cedar oil: Cedarwood oil has a strong, woody scent that snakes may avoid. Use cedar mulch or cedar oil in snake-prone areas.
Shop the best snake repellents in Australia
Here’s a round-up of snake deterrents available to buy in Australia.
01
EnviroBug Powerful solar snake repellers (8th generation)
$98, Envirobug
Since 2008, EnviroBug have pioneered snake-repellent technology that helps keep homes and yards safe without the use of harsh chemicals or poisons. Their powerful repellers use solar power to emit variable vibration frequencies that snakes can’t stand. It features a silent motor and variable vibration patterns that cause snakes discomfort without harm.
They can also operate for up to 10 days without sunlight, ensuring your home is protected even at night and on overcast days. You can buy Envirobug’s snake repellents in packs to suit the size of your property, available in a 2-pack (for small homes) up to a 20-pack (for farms).
One verified reviewer writes: “Really like this product. It makes me feel safe and comfortable … We have eight units around our front and back house paddocks and touch wood we have not seen a snake in the area since installing the units.”
EviroBug is also a family-run Australian business with a commitment to sustainability.
02
Sureguard snake repeller pulse vibration repel
$109, eBay
Sureguard Snake Repellant uses ultrasound and emits vibrations up to 20 metres to keep snakes at bay. It works well according to customer reviews.
One reviewer says; “We had spied a red belly black (snake) around our garden a few times, but when he decided to join us on our deck for happy hour it was the last straw. Installed four around the house perimeter and so far (only about 4 weeks) we haven’t seen him again. They are a little loud, but we are getting used to it and (it’s a) small price to pay if they will keep the snakes away.”
Another reviewer says; “I ordered the repellers in desperation after seeing two brown snakes near my back door within a week. With a kennel of show dogs it was important that I get protection fast. Delivery took a bit longer than I would have liked, and the order arrived without one of the components ordered, however I have not seen a snake since. (A)nd that’s the most important aspect for the safety of my dogs. Thank you.”
03
Pestless Ultrasonic Pest Repeller
$140.04, Amazon
The Pestless Ultrasonic Pest Repeller reduces the risk of snake encounters with solar-powered repellents that emit ultrasonic pulses. These pulses deter snakes and other pests, with each repeller covering up to 3229 square feet.
Made from weatherproof materials, they are suitable for gardens, yards, farms, and orchards. With no operating cost and a rechargeable battery, they provide peace of mind, especially in snake-prone areas.
04
Raidar Snake Defence MP Plus
$106.65, Amazon
Another vibrational snake deterrent is Raidar which emits a variety of sounds and vibrations every 50 seconds.
What’s great about Raidar is the vibrations change every 2 days making this a popular snake repellant in Australia. Being portable, you can also take it camping.
05
Pufado natural snake repellent
$118.27, Amazon
Pufado snake repellent is your solution for a snake-free yard and home. These repellent balls are easy to use and safe for pets, humans, and plants. Made from natural essential oils that snakes dislike, they effectively create a barrier with a 98-inch radius, stopping snakes in their tracks.
With a lasting effect of two months and resistance to rain, you can protect indoor and outdoor spaces, ensuring a snake-free environment for your family.
06
Bonide snake stopper snake repellent
$84, Amazon
A ready-to-use granular solution designed for outdoor pest control that’s safe for both people and pets.
This product effectively repels snakes and other pests by utilising natural ingredients like Cinnamon Oil, Cedarwood Oil, and Clove Oil, creating a strong smell and taste that discourages snakesIt’s also biodegradable and won’t harm your plants.
