The smell emitted by the plant is irritating for mice and they try to avoid them. Poo from bobcats, snakes, and cats are also effective mice deterrent because of their distinct smell. That smell scares mice away due to their natural fear on their predators. Pet stores have products that contain this unique smell which you can buy to spread over your house to keep mice away.
1) A myth exists that a cucumber smell comes from rattlesnakes. 2) The Tongue Mountain Range is known for harboring rattlesnakes. 3) The only place I have ever smelled random cucumber is the Tongue Mountain Range. Which leads me to believe the tiny minority, that rattlesnakes do in fact give off a cucumber smell.
tlilbit. Yes, Copperheads put off a cucumber smell-and it is not just cause you frighten them. I work outside a lot and when I smell that smell -- it can be traced to a copperhead. Rattlesnakes give off a stinky sweet smell I associate with a really sweet Lily of the Valley flower.