Where do snakes go when it gets cold outside in the South? Here’s what the experts say

Ah, the weather is starting to get cooler in the south.

But while we are starting to bundle up and get cozy, snakes may still be slithering outside.

According to Southern Pest Control in Pascagoula, Mississippi, snakes actually don’t hibernate. Instead, they are just less active during the colder months in the south.

But you could still see some out and about this time of year.

In fact, copperhead season is from March to October, according to the University of Georgia Extension.

Where do they go when it gets cold?

In the winter months, you won’t see snakes as often because colder weather means finding warmth and shelter.

Regardless, stay on high alert for snakes in the south, especially copperheads, rattlesnakes, cottonmouths and coral snakes, as those are all venomous.

Some may even try to bask in the sun on hot surfaces like driveways, porches or roads during cooler months to stay warm, so watch out.

When winter finally does roll around, snakes will find holes to live in, but they might find shelter in your home’s crawl space as well, according to Southern Pest Control.

If you run into one, here’s what to do

According to Northwest Exterminating in Marietta, Georgia, here’s what to do if you find yourself face to face with a snake:

1. Familiarize yourself with the venomous snake species common in your area and how to recognize them.

2. Try to identify the snake without getting too close to it.

3. Give the snake space.

Tips for keeping your home & property snake-proof

Here are some tips to keep your home and yard free of snakes:

1. Remove any brush, log piles and other attractants for rodents from around your home.

2. Seal up any cracks, gaps and holes that snakes can use to get into.

3. Keep your grass cut.

4. Cracks that you may miss, are not going to be missed by snakes and other creatures looking for a safe place to live.

5. Use weather stripping to seal off your home. Gaps under doors are an easy way for pests to make their way in.

6. If you can see daylight through a crack or hole in your home’s pipes, vents, foundation, windows, etc., then there is a good chance that a snake can get in.

7. If spending time outdoors, wear closed-toed shoes and long pants.

Have you seen any snakes lately in the cooler weather? Comment below to let us know.

This story was originally published October 23, 2023 at 3:48 PM.

Chelsea Madden

The Telegraph

Chelsea is a service journalism reporter who began working for McClatchy in 2022. She was born and raised in Middle Georgia and lives in Forsyth. She attended Wesleyan College for undergrad and a few years after that, went to SCAD for an MFA in writing. Outside of work, Chelsea likes to watch Netflix, read books in the thriller genre and chase her toddler around.