Lots of us here use baffles on our poles – this is to discourage/keep away anything that could climb a pole, like snakes, raccoons, etc. Using a slick pole instead of wood to hold the box is also necessary, and the baffle is an extra security. Personally, I don’t have a snake problem but there are lots of raccoons and neighborhood cats in our rural area. Put on the baffle as soon as you can – it will not deter the blues at all. I would think on a trail there might be more snakes than usual, but would depend on the area I guess. Good luck. P.S. The wobbling baffle is the best most believe.