Build Your Own Snake Fence.
Snakes can be fascinating creatures to observe from a safe distance, but when they find their way into your property, they can pose a significant threat to you and your family. In the United States, there are over 20 species of venomous snakes, including rattlesnakes, copperheads, and cottonmouths, that can be found in various regions. These snakes can cause serious injury or even death if they bite a human or a pet. That’s why it’s essential to prevent snakes from entering your property.
This article will guide you through building a Do it yourself (DIY) snake fence to protect your property from venomous snakes.
Materials and Tools Needed to Build A Snake Proof Fence
Before you start building your snake fence, you will need to gather the following materials and tools:
- Welded wire mesh with 1/4 inch or smaller openings
- T-posts
- Steel fence posts
- Metal fasteners (such as hog rings or zip ties)
- A post driver or hammer
- Pliers or wire cutters
- Gloves
- Safety glasses
- Tape measure
- Level
Step-By-Step Guide
Now that you have all the necessary materials and tools let’s go through the step-by-step guide to building your DIY snake fence.
- Measure and mark the area: First, measure where you want to install the snake fence. Mark the boundaries of your property using stakes or flags.
- Install the steel fence posts: Using a post driver or hammer, install steel fence posts at the corners o f your property and intervals of no more than 10 feet along the property line. Make sure the posts are level and stable.
- Install the T-posts: Next, install T-posts at intervals of no more than 6 feet along the property line. These posts will support the welded wire mesh.
- Attach the welded wire mesh: Starting at one corner of the property, attach the welded wire mesh to the steel fence post using metal fasteners. Use pliers or wire cutters to cut the mesh to the desired length. Continue attaching the mesh to the steel posts and T-posts along the property line, making sure to overlap the mesh edges at the corners.
- Secure the welded wire mesh: Tighten the metal fasteners with pliers or wire cutters once the mesh is attached to the posts. Make sure the mesh is taut and secure.
- Bury the bottom edge: To prevent snakes from burrowing under the fence, bury the bottom edge of the welded wire mesh in the ground. Dig a trench at least 6 inches deep and 6 inches wide along the fence line. Insert the bottom edge of the mesh into the trench, and backfill the trench with soil. Tamp the soil down to ensure it is compact.
- Add a top rail: To make the fence more stable and prevent the welded wire mesh from sagging over time, and you can add a top rail made of wood or metal. Install the top rail by attaching it to the steel fence posts using metal fasteners.
- Finish the fence: Once it is complete, inspect for any gaps or openings snakes could use to enter your property. Seal any gaps with additional welded wire mesh or metal fasteners.
Benefits of a Snake Fence 
Installing a snake fence around your property has several benefits. Here are some of them:
- Protection: The primary benefit of a snake fence is protection. A properly installed fence will prevent snakes from entering your property, reducing the risk of snake bites.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing that your property is protected from venomous snakes can give you peace of mind. You and your family can enjoy spending time outdoors without worrying about encountering a snake.
- Cost-effective: Building a DIY snake fence can be more cost-effective than hiring a professional. You can save money by purchasing the materials and doing the work yourself.
- Environmentally friendly: A snake fence is an environmentally friendly way to keep snakes from your property. It doesn’t involve using harmful chemicals or traps that can harm other animals.
- Long-lasting: A well-built snake fence can last for many years with proper maintenance. This means you won’t have to worry about replacing it soon.
Tips for Maintaining Your Snake Fence
After building your DIY snake fence, it’s important to maintain it to ensure it continues to be effective. Here are some tips for maintaining your snake fence:
- Regularly inspect the fence for any damage or wear and tear. Repair any gaps or openings immediately.
- Keep the area around the fence clear of debris, vegetation, and other materials that could provide cover for snakes.
- Regularly trim any vegetation near the fence line to prevent snakes from climbing over.
- Check the buried edge of the fence periodically to ensure that it remains buried and there are no gaps.
Conclusion
Building a DIY snake fence can be cost-effective and environmentally friendly to protect your property from venomous snakes. Following this article’s step-by-step guide and tips, you can create a snake-proof barrier that will give you and your family peace of mind. Remember to maintain your fence to ensure its effectiveness regularly. You can enjoy your property without worrying about encountering a venomous snake with a little effort.
Jennifer Mornard is the owner of a backyard farm in Calaveras County. She keeps her garden pest-free by using organic and inorganic methods and keeping it clean. She also tests pest control products to keep snakes, gophers, and other pests away.
Jennifer has worked and study reptiles around the globe including Africa, Asia, Australia and in the open prairies, grasslands deserts in USA. It is her mission to provide a solution for reptiles, manly snakes, and human beings to co-exist. Her goal is to educate people so they can prevent the unpleasant experience of snakes and humans crossing paths in people homes and properties.