Snakes can indeed climb various vertical surfaces, including walls. This ability is not universal among all snake species, as it largely depends on the snake’s physical adaptations, its size, and the texture of the surface it attempts to climb. While some snakes are adept climbers, others may find certain walls impassable.
The Mechanics of Snake Climbing
Snakes navigate vertical surfaces using specialized physical features and movement techniques. Their ventral scales, broad and overlapping, provide crucial grip by catching on minute surface irregularities. These scales create friction against rough textures like brick, stucco, or tree bark.
Movement involves powerful muscle contractions along their flexible bodies. One common method is “concertina” locomotion, where the snake bunches its body to create an anchor, then extends the front portion upward, gripping and pulling itself forward like an accordion. This technique is effective on uneven surfaces, allowing the snake to push and pull itself along. Some species also use “lateral undulation,” pressing their body against the surface in a wave-like motion to move upwards. “Lasso locomotion” has been observed where snakes form a loop around an object and progressively tighten and release sections to pull themselves up.
Common Wall-Climbing Snakes and Their Motivations
A variety of snake species are known for their climbing prowess. Rat snakes (especially Eastern and Black Rat Snakes), corn snakes, and garter snakes are frequently encountered climbing walls, often near human dwellings. These species possess muscular bodies and specialized ventral scales that enable them to scale textured surfaces such as brick, stucco, or even vinyl siding.
Snakes climb walls for several reasons. They often ascend in search of prey, such as rodents, birds, or eggs, which might be found in attics, wall voids, or nests. Climbing also provides a means of escape from predators or an avenue to find suitable shelter, like a cool, shaded spot in hot weather or a dry refuge during rain. Thermoregulation, seeking either sun or shade, also motivates climbing behavior.
Deterring Snakes from Climbing Walls
To prevent snakes from climbing walls and entering structures, specific measures can be effective. Sealing cracks, holes, or openings in foundations, walls, and around pipes or wires is important, as snakes can enter through gaps as small as a quarter-inch. Installing screens on vents and windows also blocks potential entry points.
Maintaining a tidy exterior environment can reduce snake presence. Trimming vegetation, such as shrubs and tree branches, away from the house ensures snakes cannot use them as bridges to access walls or roofs. Removing clutter like woodpiles, rock piles, and debris eliminates hiding spots and shelters for snakes and their prey. Controlling rodent populations around the property can also reduce a primary food source that attracts snakes.