Friday, August 19, 2011
Snake Baby Season
It’s here, and this year’s going to be very interesting. Females had a mild spring this year during which they could find a mate, and either lay their eggs (some species) or keep them inside for live birth – both options beginning to happen right about now. And the summer has been so hot and in many areas dry, that unusual activity on the part of baby snakes will undoubtedly be involved.
Snake removal work gets really busy this time of year. Depending on how close you are to ground zero, either to a female giving live birth to a litter of babies or a clutch of eggs hatching on their own – you could potentially see way more than one as they all try to make their way in the world. Babies can look much different than their adult counterparts in several species, and a picture is the best way to be sure. Mother is a verb, and for the most part snakes don’t do it, but again your distance from ground zero (and things like big storms, floods and local construction) can make all the difference in the level of activity you see this time of year and how much it can look like a chronic situation.
As always, 800-339-9740 is your best answer in the US. In fact, if you send a decent digital picture, the identification is free. Meanwhile, remember that they have so many babies because most of them don’t make it. Not too bright – and a pretty easy meal for lots of birds and other predators.
