Most people assume snakes stick to bushland, creeks or the neighbour’s overgrown yard. In the wild, Red-bellied Black Snakes try to keep their body temperature between 28 and 30℃ during the day, so they are incredibly good at finding warm, quiet, hidden corners - even around everyday Aussie homes. Red-bellied Black Snakes aren’t naturally aggressive, in fact they are generally considered quite shy, but they are venomous - they’re definitely not something you want near your pets, kids or outdoor spaces.
Image: © Stephen Mahony
Where Do Red Bellied Black Snakes Live in Australia?
Here are 10 common places red-bellies like to hide that most homeowners don’t think about.
Under garden mulch, leaf litter and near compost bins
Moisture and cool shade make mulch a perfect hiding spot. If you’ve recently mulched or haven’t raked in a while, a Red Bellied Black Snake could be tucked underneath. Turn mulch over regularly and keep it away from walls. Active, inground compost bins are also a source of heat which is an attractive spot for Red-bellies to warm up.
Around water features and ponds
Red-bellies are known to hunt frogs and other prey in and around water bodies. They can even stay submerged for up to 23 minutes! Keep the grass trimmed low and reduce shade or hiding spots around water features.
Behind stacked timber, tiles or old pots
Those “I’ll deal with it later” piles create dark, quiet shelters for Red Bellied Black Snakes. Keep stored items off the ground and spaced away from fences and walls.
Inside the shed
Sheds are basically snake hotels. Dark corners, boxes and tools create an ideal environment. Declutter at least once a season and seal gaps where rodents travel.
Under outdoor furniture
Outdoor lounges, deck boxes and bench seats offer cool shade and safety. If your pets suddenly refuse to go near a piece of furniture check carefully.
In dense shrubs or ground cover
Anything low, cool and undisturbed can be an ideal Red Bellied Black Snake habitat. Keep plants tidy and avoid letting shrubs grow directly against the house.
Image: © Donald Hobern
Under decks or older floorboards
These dark protected spaces are perfect for snakes moving around the property. Seal gaps and avoid storing anything underneath.
Garages and carports
Tyres, boxes and tools create lots of hiding spots for snakes. Aim to keep clear walkways and elevate storage items.
Along fence lines, retaining walls and veggie patches
Red Bellied Black Snakes, and other snakes in Australia use fence lines and veggies patches like runways because rodents and frogs do too. Veggie patches can also trap heat which is another draw. Keep grass mowed and consider placing repellers along the perimeter.
Kids’ play areas
Slides, cubby houses and outdoor toys can create hidden pockets for snakes to hide and nest. Always check or shake toys before children start playing.
You don’t need to live near bushland to have a Red-belly pop up around your home. Red Bellied Black Snakes show up in suburbs, coastal areas and rural towns — anywhere that offers shelter, shade and food.
The best protection is early prevention. EnviroBug offers a range of eco-friendly snake repellent devices that deter snakes without inflicting harm upon them and the ecosystem.
EnviroBug’s snake repellers provide constant, safe and chemical-free deterrence for peace of mind.
