Green Anaconda To Eyelash Viper, 5 Snakes Who Don't Lay Eggs But Give Birth

Various species of snakes exhibit different reproductive strategies, with some giving birth to live young while others lay eggs. Approximately 70 per cent of snakes are oviparous, meaning they lay eggs, which are then incubated until the hatchlings emerge. This category includes rat snakes, grass snakes, Cobras, Mambas and many others.

However, some snakes give birth to live young, a phenomenon uncommon among reptiles. Here are a few examples:

• Western Diamondback Rattlesnake: A member of the viper family, the Western Diamondback Rattlesnake, also known as the Texas Diamondback, is one of the largest rattlesnakes globally. Found in desert areas of Mexico and the United States, they typically give birth to 10-20 live offspring after a gestation period of six or seven months. The newborn snakelets remain with the mother for only a few hours before venturing off to hunt on their own.
• Green Anaconda Snake: Among the largest snakes globally, Green Anacondas can reach lengths of up to 20 feet and weigh around 150 pounds. Found in South America and the Caribbean island of Trinidad, these non-venomous snakes give birth to live young after a gestation period of six to seven months. A single birth can yield 20 to 40 snakelets, with some cases producing as many as 100 offspring.
• Eastern Garter Snakes: Found primarily in North America, Eastern Garter Snakes display a range of colours and patterns. They are known for abandoning their offspring immediately after birth.
• Eyelash Viper Snake: Venomous and relatively small, the eyelash viper is found in South and Central America. Females of this species carry eggs internally for about six months before they hatch.
• Yellow-bellied Sea Snake: Spending much of their time in water, Yellow-bellied Sea Snakes give birth to live young. Females typically give birth in shallow ponds and remain with their offspring for up to six months.

These examples highlight the diversity of reproductive strategies among snakes, with some species opting for live births to ensure the survival of their offspring in various environments.