From well-camouflaged snakes blending into potting soil to those that shelter among leaves and dense foliage, these snakes may be hard to spot around houseplants, balconies and home gardens

A long, powerful, non-venomous snake in brown, olive or grey shades, the Indian rat snake follows rodents into gardens, sheds and terraces. It climbs well and may rest in dense shrubs, creepers, hedges or stacked pots, where its colours blend with branches and shadows. It is useful because it eats rats and mice, and it usually flees when disturbed. It can bite in self-defence if cornered, so it should be left alone.