When observing a hole in the ground, it is common to wonder if a snake might have created it. Some snake species are capable of excavating burrows, while many others primarily rely on existing tunnels and natural crevices for shelter. This varied behavior reflects diverse adaptations for survival.
Snakes That Dig Their Own Burrows
Certain snake species possess specialized physical adaptations that enable them to dig their own burrows. These “fossorial” snakes, often characterized by pointed snouts and smooth scales, use their heads as shovels to push through soft soil, displacing earth to create tunnels.
For instance, the Hognose snake uses its upturned snout to dig into sandy or loose soil, while the Worm snake and Brahminy Blind snake are adept at burrowing through leaf litter and soft earth. These self-dug burrows offer protection from predators, allow for thermoregulation by providing escape from extreme heat or cold, and can even serve as ambush points for prey.
The Brazilian Burrowing Snake, for example, can burrow at a speed of approximately 1 meter per minute, creating complex networks of tunnels. African Burrowing Snakes are also known for their ability to force their heads through loose sand to create tunnels, and some species, like the Southern Burrowing Asp, can dig hollow compartments under rocks.
Snakes That Utilize Existing Burrows
While some snakes are skilled excavators, many species frequently occupy burrows created by other animals. This strategy conserves energy and provides readily available shelter from environmental threats.
Snakes find existing tunnels to be secure retreats. They often take over abandoned burrows, or sometimes even those still occupied by the original residents.
Common burrow-making animals whose homes snakes might inhabit include various rodents such as mice, gophers, chipmunks, prairie dogs, and voles. Decayed tree stumps, rock crevices, and even man-made structures can also provide suitable hiding spots. For example, Gopher snakes are known to utilize gopher holes. Many species are simply opportunistic “borrowers” of existing underground structures.
Identifying Snake Activity at a Hole
Determining if a hole is being used by a snake involves observing specific characteristics around the entrance. Snake holes typically range from about 0.5 to 3 inches in diameter, and their edges are often smooth due to the snake’s slithering movements. Unlike burrows made by rodents, snake holes usually lack obvious mounds of freshly excavated dirt around the entrance. Rodent holes, conversely, often have rougher edges, small dirt piles, and sometimes exhibit claw marks or nesting materials like shredded plant matter or plastic.
A strong indicator of snake presence near a hole is the discovery of shed snake skin. Finding a complete or partial shed skin nearby confirms recent snake activity. These discarded skins can also provide clues about the snake’s species.
Another sign is the presence of snake droppings, which are typically dark brown or black, often with a white, chalky cap of uric acid. These droppings may also contain remnants of their diet, such as hair or bones. Snakes can also leave subtle drag marks or wavy lines in loose soil leading to or from a hole, indicating their movement.
If a hole has spiderwebs or debris accumulated at its entrance, it is likely no longer actively used by a snake. When observing a potential snake hole, it is advisable to do so from a distance and avoid direct interaction.