Most snakes lead a secretive life and seem elusive to humans, but be assured they are all
around us when conditions are right.
Snakes are most active in warm weather (75-90°F) and tend to avoid both cold and hot
temperatures. Snakes make their first appearance in Spring when temperatures are right
for them. When temperatures are at the cooler end of the snakes range, they are most
active during the daylight hours. As temperatures rise, snakes become more active at
nighttime when temperatures drop toe their comfort range.
Snakes will often pause on surfaces that are warm in cooler weather, in order to
(thermoregulate) adjust their body temperature. Surfaces such as paved streets, dirt roads,
porches, sidewalks, driveways, paths and trails are perfect places to encounter snakes.
Snakes take advantage of those places most likely to attract a food source and will lay and
wait for their prey. Look for snakes in areas with rodent activity. These include woodpiles
and rocky terrain. Rodents like to run along the edges of large rocks and walls. Snakes
will coil up and wait along these areas for rodents.
Eliminating the places that Snakes like to hide will help to control their numbers, but
humans and Snakes, along with many other creatures seem to enjoy the same types of
landscapes and natural looking environments. Natural looking areas with rocks, logs,
water, grasses along with a diverse selection of plant materials are appealing to most of
us. Most snakes are non-poisonous and will do their best to avoid humans, so keep your
eyes open when you are out and about in nature.
