Winter Woes: What Happens to Snakes in Myrtle Beach?
As the winter months roll into Myrtle Beach, many folks are bundling up while others like bears and turtles are hunkering down for the cold. But what about our slithery friends—the snakes? It turns out, these fascinating creatures have their own unique ways of coping with the chill, and they don’t quite follow the same winter rules as their furry and shelled counterparts.
Slithering in the Cold
According to experts, while many snakes in colder climates enter a deep state of brumation (think of it as snake hibernation), in Myrtle Beach, they are much more active during the winter months. Coastal Carolina University Professor Scott Parker explains, “Unlike bears and turtles that go into deep sleep, snakes here continue to roam around, just not as much as they do in summer.”
So, what does that mean for snake sightings? While it’s less common to encounter these scaly reptiles in the winter, they are still very much around. “They are definitely less active,” Parker adds. “During this time, you might find them tucked away under fallen leaves or nestled in root cavities.” But don’t be surprised if you spot one basking in the sun on a not-so-chilly day. Snakes love soaking up that warmth!
Proceed with Caution
The non-venomous snakes you might commonly encounter in the area include black racers, corn snakes, and brown snakes. But be aware—the state also plays host to some nastier characters like cottonmouths, eastern coral snakes, and rattlesnakes. While these snakes are rarely aggressive if left alone, knowing what types are around can help you feel more at ease!
Snakes Can Surprise You!
It’s extremely rare for snakes to enter people’s homes, and if they do, it’s most likely due to them accidentally wandering in. After all, these are creatures of the outdoors! But don’t let that turn you into a hermit—just make sure you’re taking a little extra care when dealing with your outdoor spaces.
Stay on the Safe Side
So, as you dive into the cozy winter months, let’s keep a good relationship with our local wildlife, one cautious step at a time!
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
