Home >> Science & Nature >> Nature

Can Pygmy Snakes Climb Fences?

Pygmy snakes are poisonous, and can be found in the Deep South and Florida. They are a type of rattlesnake, and produce a sound similar to that of a buzzing insect. They grow to an average length of 18 inches, and are usually dark gray with black markings. They like to feed on frogs, mice and lizards.

Dangers of Pygmy Snakes
- Although they are very quick to pounce on their victims, pygmy snakes don̵7;t usually inject sufficient poison to kill a human being, although a snake bite will still be extremely painful and will require medical treatment. The pygmy̵7;s venom works by killing red blood cells and destroying the walls of blood cells, which, if left untreated, can be fatal.
Climbing Fences
- Pygmy snakes can climb vertically up fences and rough surfaces like brick walls. In the former case they do this by looping their bodies over objects ̵2; for example, if there are branches hanging through your fence from your next-door neighbor̵7;s garden.
Stopping Snakes From Climbing
- You can snake-proof an existing fence by digging about 6 inches into the ground and sticking strips of quarter-inch hardware cloth into these holes. Otherwise you can erect a concrete chainwall and a fence about 3 feet to 4 feet high. The concrete should also be about 6 inches deep into the ground.
Preventing Snakes
- If you have pets, don̵7;t leave pet food out for long in your garden, as this can attract snakes. Snake-proof the inside of your home by sealing all gaps and cracks. Check at the bottom of doors and where there is piping, and don̵7;t forget the shed or garage. In the garden, don̵7;t leave piles of rubbish, wood, leaves or any other debris lying around that snakes might use as a hiding place.

Nature