Mothballs will not get rid of snakes, as scientific studies and wildlife experts confirm they are ineffective against reptile behavior. Using them outdoors is also unsafe and often illegal because of the toxic chemicals they release.
Many homeowners turn to mothballs hoping they will drive snakes away, but research shows this method doesn’t work. Snakes rely on different sensory cues than insects, meaning the vapors from mothballs have no real effect on their behavior.
This article explains why mothballs fail as a snake deterrent, the risks they pose to people, pets, and the environment, and the legal issues tied to their misuse. It also outlines safe, effective alternatives and highlights how AAAC Wildlife Removal helps homeowners handle snake problems without dangerous shortcuts.
Why Mothballs Don’t Work on Snakes
Mothballs were designed to kill moth larvae in sealed containers, not to repel wildlife outdoors. Snakes simply don’t respond to the chemicals in ways that make mothballs an effective deterrent.
1. Wrong Target Organisms
Mothballs contain chemicals like naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene that disrupt insect metabolism. These substances are lethal to moth larvae but have no comparable impact on reptiles. Snakes do not absorb or process these chemicals the same way insects do. As a result, the intended toxic effect doesn’t translate to snakes.
2. Ineffective on Snake Sensory Systems
Snakes rely on their Jacobson’s organ and tongue-flicking to detect chemical cues in the environment. Mothball vapors are not strong or specific enough to trigger avoidance behaviors through this system.
Research and field tests have shown snakes will crawl over or near mothballs without hesitation. This demonstrates the mismatch between the chemical and snake biology.
3. Limited Range of Vapor Effect
Mothballs only release fumes within a confined space, which is why they are used in closed closets or containers. Outdoors or in open structures, the vapors quickly dissipate into the air.
Snakes moving through yards, crawl spaces, or basements are not exposed to concentrations high enough to affect them. The result is no meaningful barrier against snake activity.
4. Evidence From Wildlife Experts
Herpetologists and pest control professionals consistently report that mothballs fail to deter snakes. Real-world observations show snakes traveling directly across areas treated with mothballs.
Multiple university extension offices and government agencies warn against relying on them. These consistent findings confirm that the “mothball myth” has no scientific support.
5. Misuse Creates More Risk Than Benefit
Since mothballs are not labeled for outdoor wildlife control, using them around homes is considered misuse under federal pesticide law. Beyond being illegal, scattering them in yards or crawl spaces exposes pets and children to toxic chemicals.
Any minor deterrent effect imagined by homeowners is outweighed by these risks. This makes mothballs not only ineffective but also potentially dangerous.
The Dangers of Using Mothballs
While mothballs don’t work against snakes, they create serious risks for people, pets, and the environment. Misusing them outdoors often causes more harm than good.
Health Hazards to Humans – Mothballs release toxic fumes that can cause headaches, nausea, and long-term health effects like liver or blood damage with repeated exposure. Children are especially at risk if they mistake mothballs for candy and ingest them.
Poisoning Risks for Pets – Dogs and cats may sniff, lick, or swallow mothballs left around yards or crawl spaces. Even a small amount can lead to vomiting, seizures, or organ failure requiring emergency care.
Environmental Contamination – The chemicals in mothballs leach into soil and water when scattered outside. This pollution harms beneficial wildlife and can affect groundwater quality.
Violation of Pesticide Law – Mothballs are only approved for use in sealed indoor containers, not for scattering outdoors. Using them in yards or gardens is considered an illegal application under federal regulations.
False Sense of Security – Homeowners may believe mothballs are protecting their property and delay effective solutions. This gives snakes more time to remain undisturbed and increases the chance of future encounters.
Effective, Safe Alternatives
Since mothballs don’t work on snakes, homeowners should focus on proven strategies that make properties less inviting. These methods reduce risks without introducing harmful chemicals.
1. Seal Entry Points
Snakes often enter homes through small cracks in foundations, vents, or gaps under doors. Sealing these entry points with caulk, mesh, or weatherstripping prevents them from gaining access. A thorough inspection is necessary to identify weak spots that may not be obvious at first glance.
Closing off access reduces the chance of long-term indoor residency by cutting off hiding areas. This also benefits overall pest management since rodents and insects use the same openings. Professional exclusion ensures the work is done effectively and lasts long-term.
Pro Tip: Use ¼-inch hardware cloth over vents to block snake entry while maintaining airflow.
2. Reduce Rodent Populations
Rodents are a primary food source that draws snakes onto properties. Eliminating this attraction makes yards and homes far less appealing to them. Traps, bait stations, and secure food storage are essential components of rodent control.
Professional wildlife services can identify rodent nesting sites and implement targeted removal strategies. Reducing rodent activity not only deters snakes but also prevents property damage from gnawing. A property free of prey is a property with fewer snakes.
Pro Tip: Store pet food and birdseed in sealed containers to avoid attracting rodents.
3. Maintain Yard and Vegetation
Overgrown grass, brush piles, and wood stacks provide excellent hiding spots for snakes. Regularly mowing lawns and trimming shrubs reduces shelter options. Removing clutter eliminates areas where snakes and their prey can thrive undetected.
Well-maintained yards also improve visibility, making it easier to spot snake activity early. Landscaping practices that keep areas open and clear discourage snakes from staying. This simple habit adds a natural barrier to long-term problems.
Pro Tip: Keep firewood stacked at least 12 inches off the ground to limit hiding areas.
4. Install Snake-Proof Fencing
Physical barriers are one of the most effective long-term deterrents against snakes. Snake-proof fencing made of fine mesh angled outward prevents snakes from climbing over. Proper installation requires burying the bottom of the fence to stop burrowing.
These fences work best for protecting specific zones like gardens, play areas, or backyards. While it requires an upfront investment, fencing provides years of reliable protection. Homeowners often combine it with other prevention tactics for maximum results.
Pro Tip: Angle snake fencing outward at 30 degrees for stronger effectiveness.
5. Professional Wildlife Removal Services
Expert snake removal ensures safety, efficiency, and prevention. Professionals can identify snake species, locate hidden individuals, and remove them humanely. They also provide exclusion strategies to keep snakes from returning.
Relying on licensed specialists avoids the dangers of DIY handling, especially with venomous species. Services like AAAC Wildlife Removal combine removal with long-term prevention to deliver peace of mind. This approach addresses both immediate threats and future risks.
Pro Tip: Choose licensed and insured wildlife specialists to ensure safe, legal, and effective removal.
Final Takeaway on Mothballs and Snake Control
Mothballs are not a reliable or legal solution for keeping snakes away, as science and wildlife experts consistently confirm their ineffectiveness.
Beyond failing to deter snakes, they pose real dangers to people, pets, and the environment, making them more harmful than helpful. Relying on them only delays the use of proven strategies that actually reduce snake encounters.
Effective control comes from addressing what attracts snakes – food, shelter, and easy access – while using safe methods like sealing entry points, yard maintenance, and professional exclusion.
Homeowners who choose expert help, such as AAAC Wildlife Removal, gain both immediate relief and long-term protection. By moving past myths like mothballs, families can maintain safer properties without unnecessary risks.
