Snakes are observed to be almost everywhere in this world, and they are often spotted in the daylight during the summer season. Many people believe in a common misconception that Virginia snakes hibernate from spring season to the October month. But this statement is not always true. Studies show that snakes are more reactive to the cold weathers instead of seasonal changes. Even the rattlesnakes are often seen wondering here and there during winter months as well when they love to relax on stumps and rocks where they can get enough sunshine.



Experts say that Virginia snakes do not hibernate in actual, rather they simply become less active when it is cold outside. The process can be called as Brumation, and it is determined as the slowing down of snake metabolism. Although they are awake in cold season as well, but they are simply too lazy to move around. In the fall season, they prefer to get into their dens. In case if they are not able to reach their safe living space before it becomes too cold outside, they may even die. They don't even prefer to stay at den entrance; when it is cold outside, they love to enjoy their sleep inside. Many snake species such as copperhead snakes, timber rattlesnakes, and black rat snakes may also share the same den. A group site of snakes is called hibernaculum, and it can contain as many as of 100 snakes at once.

Most of the cold-blooded animals such as frogs, fish, turtles, and Fairfax County snakes become inactive during the winter season because they need special arrangements to keep their body warm. Snakes prefer to hide in the areas that are safe from frost; it includes stumps, tree holes, hollow logs, caves and wood piles as well. Snakes prefer to collect lots of food before brumation so that they can enjoy it when they can't attack the prey outside. However, some studies show that not all the snakes are able to survive during brumation; the skinny ones can die soon. In case if the snake has consumed lots of food before the winter season and it is well digested before they become inactive, there are more chances of their survival. In case if food stays as it is in their intestine, it may soon rot and cause the death of these reptiles.

During the early spring, late fall and even during the warmer day of the winter season, the Fairfax County snake may come out to enjoy some sunshine. Same as humans, snakes are in great need of sunlight, and they make all efforts to get it in enough amount. If you find any snake enjoying the sunshine, its good to leave him alone without causing any disturbance otherwise you may have to pay off for it. It is important to stay more careful about the presence of snakes when you move out to forests or wetlands where snakes are often spotted. Hunters are always advised to use proper snake protection to stay safe from their sudden attack.

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