Your Garage Could Be the Perfect Spot for a Snake Den—Here’s Why

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Most people think of their garage as a clutter haven, where tools, storage bins and possibly a cobweb or two have taken up residence. Few people ever consider it a possible hideaway for snakes. If you’ve ever walked into your garage and discovered an unexpected slithery visitor, you may already have some idea that snakes think there’s something appealing about this space. And they’re not wrong; garages are built for them.

Whether you love snakes or hate them, whether you are or aren’t a snake person, knowing why snakes are attracted to your garage can help you get one up on them. Garages are an irresistible snake sanctuary from cozy hiding spots to the perfect conditions for laying eggs. So let’s take a look at why your garage is such a prime location for a snake den.

Temperature Control

Snakes are of cold blood and they depend on their surroundings to keep their body temperature. Attached garages usually maintain a relatively constant, moderately warm climate. The garage is warm enough in cooler months to keep snakes comfortable. It’s a saving grace of shade in the blistering heat of summer. This balance is what makes the garage a year round favorite for reptiles when it comes to a stable living space.

A Buffet of Pests

If you have either rodents or insects sneaking into your garage, you’re essentially rolling out a welcome mat to snakes. Small critters can be attracted to garages if the doors are poorly sealed, there are gaps in the foundation or accessible food storage. Snakes will simply follow their food source, and are natural pest control agents. Snakes perform an important role in controlling rodent populations which can help prevent the spread of diseases such as the hantavirus, says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Hiding Spots Galore

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Clutter is synonymous with garages—boxes, tools, old furniture, and anything else that doesn’t have a home. These are great hiding places for a snake. Snakes love spaces where they can stay out of sight whether it’s a crack in the wall or a pile of garden hoses. The more cluttered your garage, the more attractive it is to a snake looking for a nice place to hide out.

Easy Access

Security in most garages isn’t exactly ‘Fort Knox’. When it comes to entry points for snakes, gaps under doors, vents, and tiny cracks in the walls are just some of these perfect points. Some species can squeeze through openings the diameter of a pencil and don’t need much space. This easy accessibility can make your garage, if conditions are right, a good place for them to stay.

Moisture and Water Sources

Garages often have small water leaks, condensation, or even pet water bowls sitting around. Not only does this water source keep snakes hydrated, but it also keeps the ecosystem of the prey that they rely on alive. Snakes in drier climates will find standing water or damp areas prime real estate.

A Peaceful Retreat

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Garages, especially unused ones, are usually quiet, low traffic areas. They can make for tranquil space for snakes that are looking for peaceful refuge. The last place you would expect to find a snake is in your garage which rarely is busy like your kitchen or living room.

Ideal for Laying Eggs

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Some species of snakes are looking for secluded, warm, protected place to lay their eggs. The perfect nursery is a garage with soft insulation, cardboard, or even just cozy corners. If you’re not careful, this reproductive habit can have more than one snake in your garage.

Darkness Is Their Ally

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Snakes are the silent, dark, shadow creatures. Snakes love dim conditions, and garages, especially those with bad lighting, can be great places to find one. Not only does this darkness keep them hidden, but it also lowers their stress levels so they are more likely to stay.

A Connection to the Outdoors

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Often garages are a transition space between the outdoors and your home. They’re often found near gardens, wood stacks or wild vegetation, all favorite snake habitats. Due to this proximity, snakes don’t have to go very far to find food, a mate, or other resources, as the garage is literally an extension of their outdoor habitat.

Insulation and Coziness

If your garage is insulated, it’s an even bigger draw for snakes. The warmth and comfort snakes seek, when they burrow in nature, is provided by insulation. Snakes will especially like this cozy environment during winter months when they’re looking for a place to hunker down.

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.