Garter Snakes in Yard: Beneficial, Hard to Exclude

Garter snakes eat slugs, insects, rodents—great garden allies. No reliable repellents exist; mothballs are toxic and ineffective. Snakes climb walls and fences easily.

Coexistence Tips

• Teach family to identify and respect them.
• Remove hiding spots near high-traffic areas (rock piles, dense groundcover).
• Seal foundation gaps to keep them out of basement.
• Accept occasional sightings—they move on.

If phobia is severe, consult a wildlife specialist for property assessment, but exclusion is nearly impossible.