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Do Moth Balls Work as a Snake Repellent?
Do Moth Balls Work as a Snake Repellent?. Moth balls are made of the pesticides naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene. Neither work as reliable snake repellents, alone or in combination with other chemicals like sulfur. They may work to repel a snake living in a small, tightly enclosed space such as a basement or a shed. However, there is no snake...
Moth balls are made of the pesticides naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene. Neither work as reliable snake repellents, alone or in combination with other chemicals like sulfur. They may work to repel a snake living in a small, tightly enclosed space such as a basement or a shed. However, there is no snake repellent known that works for all snakes in all situations.
Significance
Moth balls can be placed in small areas where a snake may be hiding to help coax them out, according to a report by the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Small places have poor ventilation, and the moth ball odor will not dissipate quickly as it would if placed out in the open or in a very large room. After the snake has left, the area must be sealed to prevent any more snakes from returning.
Expert Advice
A Colorado State University Extension report in 2006 claimed home remedies such as moth balls and commercial snake repellents containing naphthalene failed to repel many species of snakes. Garter snakes, western rattlesnakes, brown tree snakes and gopher snakes were among those not bothered by the moth balls. Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences also does not recommend commercial snake repellents. It suggests the snake be physically removed instead of using any "snake repellents."
Prevention
The best way to deter snakes is to make your home and yard as unattractive to them as possible. Snakes enter areas with good shelter and food possibilities. Snakes primarily eat rodents and insects. If the area is kept clean, with no loose food or garbage around, there will be fewer rodents or insects to attract the snakes. Eliminate or reduce the snake's potential living spaces like piles of leaves, brush, stones and grass clippings. Trim bushes so their lower branches do not touch the ground. Repair cracks in walls or basement windows so snakes can't use them to enter the building.
Warning
Any moth balls used to deter snakes must be removed as soon as the snake is gone. The smell of moth balls may make some people ill with headaches, nausea and breathing problems. They are also poisonous to people and pets. Children may eat moth balls because they resemble candies or gum balls. Signs of moth ball poisoning in pets include vomiting, seizures, increased heart rate and gums turning blue. Smell the pet's breath for moth ball odor and contact a vet immediately.
