I'm curious about what happens to relocated vipers during the winter. Won't they have a tough time finding a suitable den? Seems like they are creatures of habit that return to the same den year after year, so relocating them could put them at risk of not finding a den before winter.
Traditionally relocated snakes, and all animals for that matter, have high mortality rates. Often as high as 80%-90% mortality. However that is still better odds than the 100% mortality shed of had after her head was chopped off at her last home. But through several means such as soft releases and relocating to managed habitats, this mortality can be reduced. In our area the snakes don’t den, instead they find random hibernacula in their environment such as old stumps and holes in the ground. Coupled with the fact that our climate runs hot for most of the year, this girl has a good 3 months to find a suitable hibernacula within her many options here.
Gotcha! I figured you might be in a warmer climate where that wasn't such a risk. Also the fact that it's carefully managed land with good habitat makes me optimistic that the snake will make it. You're right, at least you gave that big snake a chance!@@thatsnakeguy2074
