If you’re curious about when snakes are most active in Tennessee, you’ve come to the right place. Tennessee is home to over 40 species of snakes, and depending on the species, snakes can be active at any point during the year. However, there are certain times of the year when snakes are more likely to be out and about. In this article, we’ll explore the peak activity times for snakes in Tennessee, as well as discuss some tips for staying safe around them.
Types of Snakes in Tennessee
Tennessee has a wide variety of snakes, including both venomous and nonvenomous species. The five venomous species in Tennessee are the Copperhead, Timber Rattlesnake, Cottonmouth or Water Moccasin, Pygmy Rattlesnake and Eastern Coral Snake. The most common nonvenomous snakes in Tennessee include the Black Rat Snake, Corn Snake, Dekay’s Brown Snake, Northern Redbelly Snake, and Northern Ringneck Snake.
When Are Snakes Most Active?
In Tennessee, the most active time of the year for snakes is during the warm months of April through October. During this time, snakes are more likely to be out of their dens and actively hunting for prey. During the cooler months of November through March, snakes become less active and may spend more time in their dens or hiding spots.
Snakes are most active during the day and at night, though they may be more active during the warmer parts of the day. Heat helps snakes to move around more quickly and to better detect prey. In addition to being more active during the day and night, snakes may also become more active in the hours before and after rain.
Snakes may also become more active during mating season, which typically occurs in the spring. During this time, males may become more active in search of females to breed with. The breeding season is also the time when you are most likely to see male snakes fighting with each other over females or territories.
In general, snakes are most active when the environment is warm and when there is plenty of food available. This means that they may be most active during the warmest parts of the day, especially when the ground is moist and there are plenty of insects and other prey available.
Factors Affecting Snake Activity
Snake activity in Tennessee is largely determined by temperature, humidity, and the availability of food sources. Warmer temperatures typically result in more active snake behavior, while cooler temperatures slow the snakes’ metabolism and reduce their activity. Additionally, higher humidity can cause snakes to become more active, as the moist air helps them to regulate their body temperature. Lastly, the availability of food sources can be a major factor in snake activity. If there is an abundance of food, such as rodents or insects, the snakes will be more active in search of prey.
Weather
- Snakes in Tennessee are most active when the temperature is warm, such as in the summer months.
- In the spring, snakes are most active when the temperature is between 65-90°F.
- In the summer, snakes are most active when the temperature is between 70-100°F.
- In the fall, snakes are most active when the temperature is between 65-90°F.
- In the winter, snakes are less active and usually hibernate.
Temperature
Snakes in Tennessee are most active during the spring and summer months when temperatures are warmer. Their activity peaks at 86°F (30°C) and diminishes as temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C). They are inactive during the winter months due to the cold temperatures that can cause them to go into hibernation.
Time of Day
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| Morning | Snakes are most active in the morning. During this time they will be out looking for food, basking in the sun, and moving to new areas. |
| Evening | Snakes become active again in the evening as they hunt for food and start their migrations. This is when they are most likely to be seen. |
| Night | Snakes are still active during the night, but will be less visible due to the darkness. They will be on the hunt for food and can be found in and around bodies of water. |
Snakes are most active during the morning, evening, and night. During these times, they will be hunting for food, basking in the sun, and moving to new areas. They are most likely to be seen in the evening and can be found in and around bodies of water at night.
Availability of Food
Snakes in Tennessee are most active in the warmer months when the availability of food is highest. Small mammals, amphibians, birds, and fish are all a part of their diet. In order to find food, snakes will venture out and hunt at all hours of the day and night.
| Month | Food Availability |
|---|---|
| April | High |
| May | High |
| June | High |
| July | High |
| August | High |
| September | Moderate |
| October | Low |
| November | Low |
| December | Low |
| January | Low |
| February | Low |
| March | Moderate |
When Do Snakes Hibernate in Tennessee?
Snakes in Tennessee typically hibernate for the winter months from October until late March. During this time, snakes become inactive and may seek shelter in dens, burrows, or other areas of shelter. These areas provide a safe and warm environment where snakes can remain inactive until the warmer temperatures of spring arrive. Snakes often congregate in large groups during winter hibernation, which is why it is important to be careful when approaching hibernation sites.
When is Snake Season in Tennessee?
| Month | Activity |
|---|---|
| March-May | Snakes begin to emerge from hibernation |
| June-August | Snakes are most active during mating and feeding season |
| September-November | Snakes prepare to enter hibernation |
In Tennessee, snake season is typically during the warmer months of the year. From March to May, snakes begin to emerge from hibernation and become more active. During the months of June to August, snakes are the most active as they mate and feed. From September to November, snakes start to prepare for hibernation.
Safety Tips for Avoiding Snakes
| Tip | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Wear Protective Clothing | Wear long pants and closed-toe shoes to protect against snake bites. |
| Be Aware of Your Surroundings | Look around for the presence of snakes before entering a potential habitat. Make sure to always look before you step. |
| Avoid Areas with High Snake Populations | Areas with tall grasses, wood piles, and rock walls are prone to higher snake populations. |
| Avoid Provoking Snakes | Snakes may strike if they feel threatened. Avoid provoking them by keeping a safe distance. |
| Never Handle a Snake | Even if a snake appears harmless, never try to pick it up. Leave it alone and allow it to go on its way. |
Snake Repellents
- Mothballs – Place mothballs in areas where snakes tend to congregate such as around rocks, in the garden, near garbage cans, under porches, and behind sheds.
- Ammonia – Soak rags in ammonia and place them around the perimeter of your yard. The strong smell of ammonia will repel snakes.
- Cayenne Pepper – Sprinkle cayenne pepper around the perimeter of your yard to keep snakes away.
- Garlic – Place garlic cloves around the perimeter of your yard to repel snakes, but be aware that the smell can also repel other animals.
- Sulphur – Sprinkle sulphur around the perimeter of your yard to repel snakes.
- Mint – Plant mint in your garden or around the perimeter of your yard. The strong smell of mint will repel snakes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time of year are snakes most active in Tennessee?
Snakes in Tennessee are most active from March to October when temperatures are warm. During the winter months, snakes will hibernate in dens or burrows. During the spring and summer months, snakes will be found sunning on rocks or logs, or actively hunting for prey. Snakes can also be found in cool, damp areas, such as beneath logs, rocks, or boards.
When do Snakes Become Less Active in Tennessee?
Snakes in Tennessee are most active during the warmer months, usually from April to October. At this time, snakes will become more active during the hours of dusk to dawn. During the colder months, from November to March, snakes become less active and will usually remain in their dens or hibernacula. Therefore, it is less likely that you will encounter a snake during these colder months.
What is the Best Time to Observe Snakes in Tennessee?
Spring months are the best for snake observation in Tennessee. As temperatures rise, snakes become more active and emerge from hibernation. They can often be observed basking in the sun, making it an ideal time to observe and photograph them. During the summer months, snakes are more active during the cooler evenings and night-time hours. This can make for some excellent opportunities to observe snakes in their natural habitat.
What is the Typical Hibernation Period for Snakes in Tennessee?
Snakes in Tennessee typically hibernate from October to March. During this period, they become inactive in order to conserve energy and avoid cold weather. During hibernation, snakes seek shelter away from humans, often in abandoned dens or tunnels in the ground.
What is the Duration of Snake Season in Tennessee?
Snake season in Tennessee typically runs from March to October, with peak activity occurring in the spring and fall months. During this period, snakes are most active in search of food, mates and a suitable place to hibernate during the winter.
Conclusion
Snakes in Tennessee are most active during the spring and summer months, when temperatures are warm and food is abundant. As the days become shorter and cooler during the fall and winter, snakes become less active and remain in their dens for much of the season. However, it is still possible to spot snakes in Tennessee during the winter months, especially on warm, sunny days.
