What Do Snakes Do In The Winter

As the weather gets colder many animals begin to prepare for winter. Some migrate to warmer climates while others hibernate. But what do snakes do?

There are three main ways that snakes deal with the cold weather: they can migrate they can hibernate or they can overwinter.

Migration

Some snakes such as garter snakes will migrate to find a warmer climate in the winter. They will often travel in large groups and can cover long distances – up to 800 miles (1300 km) in a single season!

Hibernation

Many snakes will hibernate in the winter. This is a way to conserve energy as they can go for long periods of time without food or water.

There are two types of hibernation: shallow and deep. Shallow hibernation also called brumation is when a snake lowers its body temperature and slows its metabolism but does not go into a deep sleep. Deep hibernation is when a snake’s body temperature and metabolism drop to a very low level and it goes into a deep sleep.

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Overwintering

Some snakes such as corn snakes and garter snakes will overwinter. This means that they will stay active during the winter but will find a place to stay where it is warm. They will often hibernate for short periods of time but will usually come out to eat and move around.

So there are three main ways that snakes deal with the cold weather: they can migrate they can hibernate or they can overwinter. Each method has its own benefits and drawbacks and each snake will choose the method that is best for them.

How do snakes generally spend the winter?

Answer 1: Snakes generally spend the winter in a dormant state meaning they don’t move around or eat during this time.

What types of snakes are native to North America?

Answer 2: There are many types of snakes native to North America some of which include the garter snake the corn snake and the rattlesnake.

How can snakes be harmful to humans?

Answer 3: Snakes can be harmful to humans if they are venomous and the human is bitten.

Venomous snakes found in North America include the rattlesnake the copperhead and the cottonmouth.

How can snakes be beneficial to humans?

Answer 4: Snakes can be beneficial to humans as they help to control rodent populations.

What is the average lifespan of a snake?

Answer 5: The average lifespan of a snake is 10-12 years though some snakes can live up to 20 years.

How do snakes move?

Answer 6: Snakes move by using their muscles to push against the ground which propels them forward.

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What is the average size of a snake?

Answer 7: The average size of a snake is 3-4 feet though some snakes can grow to be much larger.

What is the biggest snake in the world?

Answer 8: The biggest snake in the world is the reticulated python which can grow to be up to 30 feet in length.

What is the smallest snake in the world?

Answer 9: The smallest snake in the world is the thread snake which only grows to be about 4 inches in length.

What do snakes eat?

Answer 10: Snakes eat a variety of things depending on the species but most snakes eat rodents or other small mammals.

How do snakes digest their food?

Answer 11: Snakes have a very long digestive tract that allows them to digest their food over a long period of time.

How often do snakes shed their skin?

Answer 12: Snakes shed their skin about once every 2-3 weeks.

What is the purpose of a snake’s fangs?

Answer 13: Snake fangs are used to inject venom into their prey which then immobilizes the prey and makes it easier for the snake to eat.

How many ribs does a snake have?

Answer 14: Snakes have anywhere from 200-400 ribs depending on the species.

What is the temperature range that snakes can tolerate?

Answer 15: Most snakes can tolerate a wide range of temperatures though they prefer warmer climates.

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