Contra as serpentes

Snakes and chemosensitivity

Snakes locate their environment via their bifid tongue and Jacobson's organ. The sulphurous, phenolic smell of cade oil is perceived as a danger signal. They instinctively avoid impregnated zones. This mechanism has been used for centuries in Mediterranean and North African rural areas.

Application points

• Cellar and basement: soaked rags at openings and air vents.
• Barn and outbuildings: paint the base of walls at floor level; soak hay bale gaps.
• Garden and vegetable patch: soaked string perimeter at ground level.
• Pool and terrace: soaked cloths in corners and under wooden decking.
• Hen house: paint base of walls and openings (snakes are attracted by eggs and chicks).

Frequency

Indoors: monthly. Outdoors: after each rain or every 10–15 days during active season (spring–autumn).

Note: in most European countries snakes are protected by law. Cade oil deters without harming.