Owning a pool comes with numerous benefits – a perfect place for relaxation, exercise, and entertainment. However, in some regions, pools may also attract uninvited guests from the surrounding wildlife, such as snakes, lizards, and other animals. While some of these creatures are harmless, others may pose a safety risk to both humans and pets. Understanding why pools attract wildlife and how to protect your pool area from these creatures is essential for creating a safe, enjoyable outdoor space. This article explores how pools attract snakes and wildlife and provides practical tips on how to keep your pool area safe.
Why Do Pools Attract Snakes & Wildlife?
1. Water Source
Wildlife, including snakes, are drawn to pools because water is a valuable resource. In dry regions or during hot months, pools provide a perfect water supply. For snakes, water is not only vital for drinking but also regulates their body temperature. Snakes, being cold-blooded, rely on external sources of heat or cold, and pools offer a cool retreat.
2. Attraction of Food Sources
Pools attract insects, frogs, and rodents, which become a food source for larger animals. Small creatures around the pool – or those that fall in and become trapped – can be an easy meal for predators. A well-maintained poolside garden with native plants or an unattended backyard area could unintentionally attract wildlife looking for food.
3. Shelter and Cool Resting Spots
Wildlife may seek out cool areas to rest and hide during the heat of the day. Pools, with surrounding landscaping, offer shade and shelter where animals can take refuge from the sun. Snakes, in particular, shelter under pool decks, along the pool’s edge, or within nearby plantings.
4. Human Activity & Pool Maintenance
If your pool isn’t regularly cleaned or maintained, animals may view it as a place to find food or shelter. Overgrown plants or neglected areas around the pool can create hiding spots, which makes it easier for creatures to move closer to the water.
Which Wildlife Can Be Found Around Pools?
1. Snakes
Australia has several snake species that may be drawn to pools, including venomous varieties like red-bellied black snakes and eastern brown snakes. Snakes tend to be secretive and usually aren’t aggressive unless provoked, but their presence near the pool can be unsettling.
2. Frogs & Tadpoles
Frogs are attracted to pools for water, especially when ponds or vegetation are nearby. Frogs may lay eggs in the pool, and their presence attracts predators like snakes and birds. Tadpoles and other aquatic creatures may also appear in pool water if the pool is not well-maintained.
3. Lizards
Lizards such as blue-tongue lizards and bearded dragons are commonly found around pools. These reptiles are attracted to water sources and often bask in the sun near pool areas. While harmless, their presence can be frequent in warmer months.
4. Birds
Birds like magpies, crows, and parrots may visit pools to drink or bathe. While generally harmless, birds can create a mess with feathers and droppings, and their presence may attract other predators.
5. Insects
Insects, including mosquitoes and water striders, are often drawn to pool water. These insects attract larger wildlife like frogs and lizards, creating a cycle of attraction that draws more creatures to the pool.
How To Keep Your Pool Area Safe
1. Secure the Perimeter
A secure fence is the most effective way to keep larger animals like snakes and other wildlife out of the pool area. Ensure your fence is high enough (1.5 metres or higher) to prevent animals from climbing over. Use snake-proof mesh or wire fencing if snakes are a concern. Regularly check for gaps or weaknesses in the fence to keep animals from getting through.
2. Remove Debris & Hiding Spots
Wildlife is drawn to areas that offer shelter, such as overgrown plants or piles of leaves. Regularly trim plants and remove debris around the pool to reduce available hiding spots for animals. Keep the area tidy to prevent attracting wildlife.
3. Install Pool Covers
A pool cover can act as a deterrent for animals looking for water or shelter. It prevents creatures from entering the pool and helps maintain clean water. Make sure your cover is securely fitted and in good condition to avoid accidental trapping.
4. Use Motion Sensor Lights & Sounds
Motion sensor lights around the pool can help scare off approaching creatures. Some devices emit ultrasonic sounds or vibrations that are uncomfortable for wildlife, discouraging them from entering the area. These measures can be particularly effective at night when wildlife is more active. Ultrasonic devices, in particular, can deter not only snakes but also smaller animals like rodents.
5. Regular Pool Maintenance
Maintaining a clean pool is crucial for keeping wildlife away. Regularly remove floating debris and clean filters to ensure the water remains clear. Stagnant water attracts insects and smaller wildlife, making it more likely that larger animals will visit.
6. Create a Wildlife-Free Zone
To deter wildlife, create a designated wildlife-free zone around the pool. Opt for plants that do not attract wildlife, such as those with strong scents or prickly textures. Lighting the area can also discourage nocturnal creatures from venturing too close.
7. Install a Water Feature for Wildlife
Interestingly, adding a small, shallow water feature away from your pool may help attract wildlife elsewhere. By placing a birdbath or small pond in a less central location, you can offer a water source to animals without having them come too close to your pool area. This can divert animals, particularly birds, from your pool while still catering to their needs.
Conclusion
While pools can attract wildlife due to water and shelter, taking proactive measures can significantly reduce the risk of animals entering your pool area. By securing the perimeter with fences, removing hiding spots, using pool covers, and maintaining the pool regularly, you can enjoy a safe and wildlife-free environment. Installing motion sensor lights, regular pool maintenance, and creating wildlife-free zones can also be effective deterrents.
Additionally, incorporating a dedicated water feature can help divert wildlife away from the pool, ensuring both their needs and your pool’s safety. By following these steps, you can protect your pool area from uninvited wildlife, ensuring your space remains enjoyable and safe for both you and your family. To order your new pool today, head contact page for a Free Quote here!
