In self defense, some will indeed bite, but except in the case of our two extremely rare, venomous species, the resulting wounds are superficial. The important thing to remember is that unless you attempt to harm or capture a snake, it is almost impossible to get bitten. You have a better chance of being struck by lightning. Reproduction Depending on the species, snakes may be egg-layers or give birth to live young. They generally mate in the spring, shortly after leaving whatever hollow, burrow or rock crevice has sheltered them through winter hibernation.
Most snakes hatch or are born in late summer.
Whether deposited as eggs or dropped as fully formed miniature adults, snakes are on their own from the start. Our snakes do not take any responsibility for the care and protection of their young. Most snakes mature at one or two years of age, and individuals may live up to twenty years in the wild. Within those habitats, snakes may travel along the ground, swim, climb trees and bushes, and venture below ground. Many snakes utilize these burrows for food, shelter and egg laying sites, but most species don't dig holes.