Do snakes live in holes?

There are over 3,000 of the species of reptiles known as snakes in the world. They inhabit ever country and continent in the world with the exception of Antarctica and Ireland. Some species of snakes use venom to subdue their prey and as a defense. Others use a method known as constriction to catch their dinner. All snakes will bite if provoked. Snakes live in almost any environment imaginable. They are found inhabiting forests, deserts, seas, lakes, swamps, and grasslands. Many nest in trees, caves, or piles of wood and deadfall. They have been found Living in drainpipes, attic spaces, under porches, and in vents. Some choose to make their homes in underground burrows or the crevices between rocks. Some snakes, like the cottonmouth, sea snake, or water moccasin actually live in the water a great deal of time. Snakes will also often inhabit holes. Keep in mind that the snake does not construct the hole himself or herself, as it is hard to dig with no arms or legs. They are more opportunistic and tend take over the holes of creatures such as rodents, turtles, and frogs. Often these spaces are the former holes of the snakes last dinner, and it found the accommodations so comfy it decided to stay.



If you believe that you have snakes living in holes in your yard and want to identify their homes here are some clues for you. The size of a hole will often immediately tell you whether it is suitable home for a snake. If the hole in question is extremely narrow, it is not likely that it is being used by a snake. Remember, snakes do not burrow, so when they take over another creature’s hole, the dirt around the hole will most often be worn away and smoothed out by the snake’s long belly rubbing over it. Because snakes eat meat, the will be no signs of grazing in the vegetation surrounding the hole either. If any plants around the hole are damaged, they will be flattened by the snake crawling over them, not from chewing

The hole will most likely be located in an area that has wide patches of damp, cool earth and ample cover for protection. They will need an area that have a good food supply. They will look for rodents, bird nests, amphibians, and other tasty treats nearby. Snakes also enjoy using abandoned holes for hibernation purposes, so if it is cold weather, and the holes meets the criteria, is probably houses a snake. If you are concerned about snakes in your yard, eliminate those things that would attract them (and the animals they eat) Do away with trash and debris near your home. Keep feed and pet food properly stored. Clean up brush and deadfall and do not keep birdfeeders near your home. If the space is uninviting, snakes will have no desire to move in.

Read the How to get rid of snakes page for helpful information and to learn more about Do snakes live in holes?

Do snakes live in holes?

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