Snake activity set to increase this winter
Remember, no matter what time of year it is, always treat snakes with respect, and leave them alone.
WITH temperatures dropping and days getting shorter, we all know that winter is approaching. Most of us love Durban winters, usually consisting of cloudless, sunny days and comfortable temperatures. It’s not unbearably hot or freezing cold either. However, this weather is also welcomed by snakes.
But don’t snakes hibernate in winter? In some parts of the world, yes, but not in Durban. It doesn’t get cold enough for them to have the need to hibernate. The relatively warm, sunny winter days mean they can still get energy and move around if they want to, so snakes are sometimes encountered in winter.
However, there is definitely a drop in snake activity in general. The cooler temperatures mean that it takes longer for snakes to warm up and get energy, and so they become more sluggish. For snakes which feed on frogs (like heralds and night adders) there is little, if any food around for them to hunt in winter. The same applies to snakes which feed on lizards. For them there is little reason to move around. On a sunny winter’s day, snakes will start moving around a bit and bask in the sun.
Why do temperatures affect them so much? Snakes don’t have any internal mechanism to help regulate their body temperature, like our bodies can do. They are fully dependent on getting their heat and energy from external sources, such as the sun. This also aids them significantly in digesting food. In cold areas, snakes will go into hibernation, usually in deserted animal burrows or under rocks, and won’t move until spring. During this time, they’ll live off body fat, which they would have gained a lot of towards the end of summer.
Which snakes are most active in winter? Mambas. This is the time of year when they come together to mate. They also have a fast metabolism, more so than most other snakes, so digesting food with lower temperatures isn’t a problem for them. There are plenty of mambas in the Highway area, particularly in valley areas. Fortunately or unfortunately, depending on your feelings towards snakes, green mambas do not naturally occur in the Highway area.
Will they come into my house for warmth? There is a chance of that happening, but your garage or tool shed is a more likely place, as they tend to be darker with less human activity than a house. Snakes may come into your house at any time of year though, whether it be for food, warmth or shelter. Snakes love curling up around your swimming pool pump, because it makes for a great heat source. Piles of asbestos or corrugated iron which get nice and warm in the sun would also make an ideal winter hang-out.
Remember, no matter what time of year it is, always treat snakes with respect, and leave them alone. Do not try to catch or kill them. Call a professional for help.
Contact Nick Evans (KZN Amphibian and Reptile Conservation) for snake removals on 072 809 5806, for snake educational talks via e-mail -nickevanskzn@gmail.com – or visit www.kznamphibianreptileconservation.com.
