7 snakes that give birth instead of laying eggs
A significant number of snakes across the world give birth to live young instead.
These offspring are born fully developed, without the need for external incubation. It's not a biological quirk– it's an evolved response to specific environmental challenges.
In certain habitats, laying eggs can put the next generation at greater risk. For these species, giving birth directly improves the odds of survival.
Giving birth, not laying eggs
This process is known as viviparity– when young ones grow inside the mother and are born live, rather than hatching from eggs laid outside the body.
In snakes, this adaptation helps in places where eggs wouldn't stand a chance. Whether it's freezing temperatures, swampy terrain, or predators that sniff out nests, some environments simply don't favour external eggs. So, the snakes evolve. They carry their young inside, protect them until they're strong enough, and then give birth. It's practical. And it's surprisingly common.
A closer look at the
snakes that give birth
:
Boa constrictor
These powerful snakes live in environments where exposed eggs would be an open invitation to predators.
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Instead, boas carry their young for months. When the time comes, they give birth to dozens of baby snakes.
Garter snake
One of the most widespread snakes in North America, garter snakes are known for their adaptability. In colder regions, laying eggs would be too risky, so females give birth to live young, sometimes up to 80 at once. It's a strategy that helps them thrive, even in unpredictable climates.
Green anaconda
Living in swamps and rivers, green anacondas face a different challenge: water.
Eggs would be far too vulnerable in their wet environment. Instead, these massive snakes give birth to fully formed young that can swim from the moment they enter the world.
Rinkhals
Native to southern Africa, the rinkhals doesn't just spit venom– it also gives birth to live young. It's an advantage in the cooler highlands where it's found, where egg development would be difficult.
European adder
Found in parts of Europe and the UK, this snake avoids the risk of frozen eggs by delivering its young in late summer.
The litters are small, but the conditions give each offspring a better chance of survival.
Red-bellied black snake
This Australian native lives in wetlands prone to floods and sudden changes in weather. Laying eggs would be too uncertain. So the species relies on viviparity– giving birth to several dozen young that are already equipped for their environment.
Gaboon
viper
Deep in central Africa's rainforests, the Gaboon viper faces humid conditions that could easily damage or destroy eggs. By keeping its offspring inside until birth, it increases the likelihood they'll survive in a place where moisture is constant.
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