Where do snakes go when it gets cold outside in Ohio? Here’s what the experts say
Ah, the weather is starting to get cooler. We might even start to see some frost in certain areas.
But while we are starting to bundle up and get cozy, snakes may still be slithering outside.
Where do snakes go when it gets cold?
In the winter months, you won’t see snakes as often because colder weather means finding warmth and shelter.
According to the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, snakes use a “hibernaculum” during winter.
A hibernaculum is a den or hole where snakes go to keep warm. It’s really just another name for shelter.
When it gets really cold, snakes may take shelter with other snakes, even ones that are rivals, according to the museum.
Regardless, stay on high alert for snakes, especially copperheads, rattlesnakes, massasauga, as those are all venomous snakes found in Ohio.
Some may even come out in the open and 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.
If you run into one, here’s what to do
Sure, they are starting to become less active, but you still might see one slithering around your yard.
Here’s what to do if you find yourself face to face with a snake:
Familiarize yourself with the venomous snake species common in your area and how to recognize them.
Try to identify the snake without getting too close to it.
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:
Remove any brush, log piles and other attractants for rodents from around your home.
Seal up any cracks, gaps and holes that snakes can use to get into.
Keep your grass cut.
Cracks that you may miss, are not going to be missed by snakes and other creatures looking for a safe place to live.
Use weather stripping to seal off your home. Gaps under doors are an easy way for pests to make their way in.
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.
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.
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This story was originally published October 24, 2023 at 3:54 PM with the headline "Where do snakes go when it gets cold outside in Ohio? Here’s what the experts say."
