As summer approaches, it’s time to enjoy more sunshine, beach trips, and outdoor activities. While preparing for this delightful season, it’s crucial to consider snake-proofing your yard. Residents of states like Arizona, Nevada, Texas, and Florida are likely familiar with the slithery visitors in their backyards and may have already taken steps to keep them out. However, unless you reside in Hawaii or Alaska, snakes are present in every U.S. state to some extent. If you haven’t addressed this issue yet, now is the perfect time.
It’s essential to install the right fence materials to prevent the inconvenience or potential danger of encountering snakes. Today, we’ll explore snake-proof fence materials, ranking them from least to most effective, to help you keep these unwelcome guests out of your yard for good.
Chain link fences are hard to snake-proof
If you’re trying to prevent snakes from entering your backyard, chain link fences are the least effective option. Although common around homes and playgrounds, they provide an easy entry for snakes. If you live in a state with a significant snake population, you know that a simple chain link fence won’t suffice. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
The reason for their ineffectiveness is clear: the large holes in chain link fences allow snakes of all sizes to pass through easily, continuing right into the ground. While adding a snake-proof wire mesh to an existing chain link fence might seem like a solution, it’s not highly recommended. Snakes are resourceful and can climb over or slither under the mesh. If you’re serious about keeping snakes out, consider replacing your chain link fence.
Wood fences are better, but you still need extra snake-proofing
A classic wood fence offers a more visually pleasing alternative for your yard than a chain link fence. However, it still has its challenges when it comes to snake-proofing. We’re not referring to picket fences with gaps, which snakes can easily navigate, but rather wooden privacy fences.
Snakes are crafty and may dig under even tightly constructed wooden fences. To address this, dig at least six inches below the fence’s foundation and install a ½ to ¼-inch opening size mesh around its perimeter. Avoid plastic mesh, as snakes can chew through it. Opt for aluminum-based mesh, which is durable, affordable, and resistant to corrosion. Still, this may not be the most effective solution.
The best fence materials to keep snakes out
For optimal snake prevention, install proper metal-based mesh material around your fence at the appropriate height and depth. Depending on your location, you may need to use a ¼-inch opening size metal mesh instead of ½-inch. Consult your local U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service office for specific guidance.
The best snake-proof mesh material is galvanized stainless steel. For maximum effectiveness, ensure the mesh has a ¼-inch opening size to block even the smallest snakes. Install the mesh on the fence’s exterior, burying it at least six inches deep to prevent burrowing.
Additionally, the stainless steel fencing should be at least 36 inches high to deter climbing. For added security, angle the mesh outward at a 30-degree angle to discourage climbing attempts. For more tips on keeping snakes away, check out nine sneaky reasons snakes won’t stay out of your yard.
