When the temperature starts to drop and winter rolls in, many animals go into hiding or hibernate. But what about snakes? Since snakes are cold-blooded reptiles, they can’t survive in cold weather like warm-blooded animals can. So, what do snakes do in the winter?
The short answer: snakes slow down. A lot. But there’s much more to it than that. Let’s explore how snakes survive during the cold months and what that means for people, especially those living near forests, ponds, or even in suburban areas.
Cold-Blooded Creatures and Cold Weather
To understand what snakes do in winter, it helps to first know a bit about how their bodies work. Snakes are ectothermic, or cold-blooded, animals. That means their body temperature depends on the temperature of their environment. When it’s warm outside, snakes are more active. When it’s cold, they slow down to conserve energy.
Humans and other warm-blooded animals can generate heat and keep a steady body temperature no matter what the weather is like. Snakes, however, don’t have that ability. So when winter comes and the air and ground get cold, snakes need to find a way to stay alive without freezing.
Brumation: A Snake’s Version of Hibernation
You might have heard of hibernation—many mammals, like bears, hibernate in winter to save energy. Snakes do something similar, but it’s called brumation.
During brumation, snakes become very inactive. They don’t eat, move very little, and their body processes (like breathing and digestion) slow way down. They aren’t truly asleep, but they are in a state of rest that helps them survive the winter months.
This period usually starts in late fall and lasts through winter until the weather warms up again in spring. In some parts of the country, snakes may brumate for several months.
Where Do Snakes Go During Winter?
Snakes need to find a safe and warm(ish) place to wait out the cold. These places are called hibernacula (plural for hibernaculum). A hibernaculum is any spot that stays above freezing and offers protection from predators and bad weather. Common hibernacula include:
- Rock crevices
- Burrows made by other animals
- Deep cracks in the ground
- Tree stumps or logs
- Cellars, crawl spaces, and basements in human homes
Yes, you read that last one right—sometimes snakes sneak into buildings to brumate. That’s why it’s important to keep your home sealed up tight before winter. If you suspect a snake might be nearby or hiding out on your property, it’s a good idea to contact a snake control service.
Do All Snakes Brumate?
Most snakes in cooler climates go through some kind of brumation. However, the amount of time they spend inactive and the kind of shelter they use can vary depending on the species and the weather.
In very warm regions like southern Florida or parts of Texas, snakes may stay active all year. But in places with cold winters, brumation is necessary for their survival.
Some snake species even brumate in large groups. This group behavior helps keep them warm through shared body heat. It’s not unusual to find dozens or even hundreds of snakes sharing the same hibernaculum!
Why It Matters for Homeowners
Knowing that snakes brumate can help homeowners stay prepared. If snakes find easy access to your home’s crawl spaces, sheds, or garages, they might choose it as their winter hideout. That’s where wildlife management services can help.
Professional wildlife experts can safely remove snakes, seal up entry points, and provide advice to help you avoid future visits. It’s especially important if you live near:
- Wooded areas
- Farmland
- Lakes or ponds
- Places with lots of rocks or debris
All these environments are great for snakes—especially when they’re looking for a warm place to spend the winter.
What Happens in the Spring?
Once the temperature outside begins to rise, snakes slowly come out of brumation. At first, they may just lay in the sun to warm up. Their body needs to “wake up” after being in a slowed-down state for so long.
After they warm up, they start looking for food. Spring is also mating season for many snakes, so they become more active. This is when people are more likely to spot snakes around their homes, trails, and even in yards.
If you see more snakes in spring than you’re comfortable with, again, it’s a smart move to call a Virginia snake control service like Blue Ridge Wildlife & Fisheries Management for help. They can inspect your property, remove any unwanted reptiles, and suggest ways to keep them from coming back.
Snakes and Ponds
If you live near a pond or have one on your property, you may notice that snakes seem to like hanging around the water. That’s because ponds are a source of food and shelter. Frogs, fish, and other small animals make great meals for snakes. In warm months, ponds also offer a place to cool off.
During the colder months, snakes that live near water will often find hibernation spots nearby—sometimes burrowing into the banks of the pond or finding rocky shelters close by. Managing the plants and layout around your pond can help reduce the number of places snakes can hide. A good pond management plan can keep the pond healthy and discourage unwanted wildlife like snakes.
Tips to Keep Snakes Away in Winter
Here are a few things you can do to make your property less inviting to snakes—during winter and year-round:
- Seal up your home – Make sure doors, windows, and vents are closed tightly.
- Clear out clutter – Wood piles, rock piles, and tall grass make great snake hiding spots.
- Check your crawl spaces and basements – Make sure there are no easy entry points.
- Keep your yard clean – Trim bushes, rake leaves, and don’t leave pet food outside.
- Get expert help – If you suspect a snake problem, call in professionals like those who offer wildlife management services.
Final Thoughts
So, what do snakes do in the winter? They slow down, brumate, and find safe places to hide from the cold. While they’re not out slithering around in the snow, they might be closer than you think—possibly even under your porch or in your shed!
Understanding snake behavior during the seasons can help you stay safe and make smart choices about your property. Whether you’re near the woods, a pond, or in the suburbs, it’s important to know when and where snakes might be hiding.
If you ever find yourself unsure or just want peace of mind, don’t hesitate to reach out to a snake control service or wildlife management team who can guide you. And if you have a pond, don’t forget that proper pond management plays a big role in keeping snakes—and other wildlife—under control.
