Snake Season: When Are Snakes Most Active

The US is home to many fascinating creatures, but some are more dangerous than others. Venomous snakes, for example, injure around 7,000–8,000 people each year. These animals usually are more active in certain parts of the year, commonly known as “snake season.” 

When Exactly Is Snake Season?

Snakes are ectothermic animals, which means that they rely on their environment’s temperature to regulate their body heat. They need this heat to do certain bodily functions, such as hunting, digesting, and breeding. As the seasons change, so do the behavior patterns of these animals.

These cold-blooded reptiles usually breed and reach peak activity in the warmer months. In North America, this period typically occurs between April and October. Within the cooler months following that active period, snakes become sluggish and inactive, and they begin to hibernate in the winter.

At What Temperatures Are Snakes Most Active?

As mentioned above, the metabolism and activity of snakes depend on the surrounding temperatures. These animals reach peak activity between 70–90 degrees Fahrenheit. Below 60 °F, their metabolism slows, and they become less active. Above 95 °F, they risk overheating and have to cool down.

What Do Snakes Do In Certain Seasons?

• During the fall, snakes are often sluggish and will try to conserve energy for hibernation. They will likely look for places where they can stay during the winter. Some will dig underground dens, while others will seek other warm shelters such as logs, tree stumps, basements, garages, barns, or crawl spaces.
• In the winter, some snakes enter deep sleep or hibernation. They largely disappear during these months because they will not wake up until the environmental temperature rises again. In areas with warmer climates, however, they will undergo brumation or a slowed metabolism instead. Unlike in hibernation, they can wake up to feed during unusually warmer days.
• When spring comes, the reptiles slither out of their dens and seek out sunny spots to bask and raise their body temperatures. You may see them in open spaces such as driveways and sidewalks. They may also go to other sources of heat, like your home’s radiator. In the warmer months, these reptiles will hunt in cluttered or grassy areas wherein they can hide. Snakes also travel far and wide during this season in search of a mate. The young typically hatch in the summer or the warmer parts of fall. 
• In the summer, snakes typically avoid too much exposure to the scorching midday sun. They become more active at dawn and dusk, and they will bask to absorb the sun’s heat. However, if the weather is too hot, they will lighten their skin and seek out shade. Humans typically encounter them when they’re in hiding.

Keep Snakes Away from Your Property

In North America, snakes are typically active between April and October, although their activity can vary depending on the species and region. Snakes are fascinating creatures that act as a natural form of pest control and provide food for birds of prey. However, they can cause problems when you encounter them on your property.

If you’re looking for a natural snake repellent in the US, Revoke® Snake Repellent has what you need. We offer you an all-natural and biodegradable snake repellent that’s safe for you and your pets. It’s safe for indoor and outdoor use, and it also repels snakes without harming them. Protect your property—shop with us today!