Snake Activity in the Fall: What to Expect

As fall approaches in North Texas, the region experiences a shift in wildlife behavior, and snakes are no exception. While warmer temperatures during the summer months boost snake activity, snake activity in the fall experiences an increase. Understanding snake behavior at this time of year, especially due to increased snake infestations.

Increased Activity for Hibernation

There is an increase of snake activity in the fall as they prepare for hibernation, which is known as brumation. As the weather cools, snakes start looking for safe, warm places to spend the winter. They may seek shelter in rock heaps, subterranean burrows, or even man-made structures such as basements and garages.

Since snakes travel closer to residential areas in search of warmth and protection, this hunt for suitable hibernation sites can result in more frequent interactions with humans.

Feeding Before Winter

Because snakes are cold-blooded, their metabolism slows down in colder temperatures. Snakes eat enormous meals in the weeks leading up to hibernation in order to store up fat reserves that will keep them going during the winter. This means they are more likely to be discovered near food sources like rodents, birds, and amphibians.

Common species in North Texas include Western Diamondback Rattlesnakes, Copperheads, and Rat Snakes, all of which can be found around barns, woodpiles, or other areas.

Where You’re Likely to Encounter Snakes

During the fall, snakes are commonly encountered in:

1. Piles of leaves: As the leaves begin to fall, they provide good hiding places for snakes. Residents should exercise caution when raking or strolling through leaf piles, since snakes may take shelter here.
2. Rock walls or stone piles retain heat, making them ideal places for snakes to stay warm when the weather cools.
3. Under porches and sheds: Structures with warmth and darkness are ideal hiding spots for snakes ready to brumate.

Safety Tips for Homeowners

While many snakes in North Texas are non-venomous and useful for rodent control, other species can be dangerous to people. Here are methods to lessen the risks of meeting snakes in your yard or house this fall:

• Maintain a clean yard by removing leaf piles, woodpiles, and any other waste that could give cover for snakes.
• Seal the cracks and gaps: Inspect your home’s foundation and exterior walls for any cracks or holes that snakes could penetrate in quest of warmth.
• Wear protective gear: If you’re working outside, especially in places with tall grass or leaf piles, wear boots and gloves to keep yourself safe from accidental bites.

Snake activity in the fall stays high during the fall as the reptiles prepare for hibernation. While most snakes are harmless and serve an important part in the environment, householders should be aware of their existence and take precautions to avoid unfortunate encounters. Maintaining a neat yard and blocking potential access ways into your home will help lessen the possibility of unwanted snake visits as temperatures begin to drop. If you come across a snake, it’s always best to call a professional wildlife removal agency to handle the problem carefully.

Are you in need of snake removal? Our friendly operators at Dallas Fort Worth Wildlife Control are available now at (817) 606-7607. Find out more about our wildlife removal in Arlington and Fort Worth, TX.