Many people believe mothballs deter snakes, but this is a myth without scientific backing. This article clarifies why mothballs are ineffective and provides safer methods for snake prevention around homes and properties.
Mothball Composition and Intended Use
Mothballs are pesticides primarily composed of naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene. These active ingredients slowly transform into a gas, releasing a strong odor. They are designed to kill clothes moths and other fabric pests by releasing fumes in sealed containers. Their intended use is for protecting stored items from insects, not for repelling outdoor wildlife.
How Snakes Perceive Their Environment
Snakes possess a specialized sensory system that allows them to navigate and hunt. Their primary method for detecting chemical cues involves their forked tongue, which collects scent particles from the air, water, or ground. These particles are then transferred to the Jacobson’s organ, located in the roof of their mouth. This organ processes the chemical information, enabling the snake to detect prey, predators, and potential mates.
Beyond chemoreception, some snakes, particularly pit vipers and boas, can sense heat using specialized pit organs located on their heads. These pits are highly sensitive to infrared radiation, allowing them to detect subtle temperature changes of as little as 0.001°C. This helps them locate warm-blooded prey even in complete darkness. Snakes also detect vibrations through the ground, transmitting these sensations to their lower jawbones and inner ear. While snakes have vision, it varies greatly among species, and many rely more heavily on their other senses.
Why Mothballs Do Not Deter Snakes
Despite their strong odor, mothballs are ineffective at deterring snakes. Snakes’ chemical detection system, centered on the Jacobson’s organ, is specialized for biological cues, not general noxious fumes. The strong smell of naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene does not register as a threat.
Scientific studies confirm that mothballs do not repel snakes; some tests have shown snakes crawling directly over them without being deterred. There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that mothballs work as a snake repellent. This belief is a common misconception.
Dangers of Using Mothballs Outdoors
Using mothballs outdoors poses health and environmental risks. Naphthalene and paradichlorobenzene are toxic to humans, pets, and wildlife. When scattered outside, these chemicals can contaminate soil and water, harming plants and aquatic life.
Children and pets are vulnerable to mothball poisoning because the white pellets can resemble candy or food, leading to accidental ingestion. Inhaling fumes can cause headaches, dizziness, nausea, and irritation to the eyes and lungs. Naphthalene exposure can cause hemolytic anemia, liver, and kidney damage, and is a possible carcinogen.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates mothballs as pesticides, and their labels state they are for use only in tightly closed containers. Using them outdoors or inconsistently with the label is illegal and can result in fines.
Effective Snake Prevention and Deterrence
To prevent snakes, modify your environment to make it less appealing. Regularly mow your lawn to keep grass short, as tall grass provides cover. Remove hiding spots such as piles of leaves, rocks, wood, and other debris. Elevate stored items like firewood at least 12 inches off the ground.
Control snake food sources by managing rodent populations. Secure pet food and birdseed, and promptly clean up any spills. Repair leaky outdoor faucets and eliminate standing water, which attracts frogs and rodents.
Installing a snake-proof fence made of fine mesh, buried a few inches into the ground and angled outward, can create a physical barrier. Sealing cracks and gaps in your home’s foundation, repairing damaged screens, and installing door sweeps can prevent snakes from entering structures. For persistent snake problems, professional removal services offer safe and effective solutions.