Why Snakes Are Present

Snakes can enter yards, barns, sheds and even occasionally houses. Even the smallest of openings can be an entry point for a snake if they are so inclined. The main reason for them to be present is that they are looking for food or water. A rodent population in an area quite frequently also means a snake population.

In the spring time, snakes are hungry after a winter of being mostly dormant and will go where ever food is most easily found. Also, spring is breeding season, so males are actively seeking out females.

Once summer comes around, snake activity during the day time drops off because of the heat. Snakes generally find a cool spot to hide during the day. These cooler areas can be any number of places, such as under concrete slabs, in wood piles, or even in buildings. In the evenings they become active as they come out to look for food.

When fall comes around, and the days cool off, snakes are once more commonly seen during the day. Bulking themselves up to survive their inactivity during the winter.

Anyone who is interested in identifying snakes in Texas, should look for a copy of 'A Field Guide to Texas Snakes' by Alan Tennant and/or 'Poisonous Snakes of Texas' by Andrew H. Price. They are both excellent resources, full of pictures and range information on native Texas snake species.