3 snakes use 'synchronized slithering' to mate in state park footage

CaptionCloseSheldon Lake State Park & Environmental Learning Center: "There are lots of snakes out today!"Sheldon Lake State Park & Environmental Learning Center: "There are lots of snakes out today!"This is no Texas two-step: Three water snakes kicked...

3 snakes use 'synchronized slithering' to mate in state park footage

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This is no Texas two-step: Three water snakes kicked off the reptile's mating season with a synchronized weaving dance of sorts, new footage shows.

Officials with Texas Parks and Wildlife said on the department's Facebook page that the video depicts two male snakes trying to mate with a female. The non-venomous water snakes moved in an undulating motion on the ground among brown leaves at Sheldon Lake State Park in Houston.

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On the state park's Facebook page, park officials said: "Check out this video of three broad-banded water snakes practicing their synchronized slithering!"

Commenters had mixed reactions— some were disturbed, while others were excited.

"These are my favorite water snakes! So beautiful," one said.

There are lots of snakes out today! Check out this great video of three broad-banded water snakes practicing their synchronized ssssssslithering! #BetterOutside #SheldonLakeStatePark #TxStateParks

"Ewwww!" another said.

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Snakes typically mate in the springtime when the climate is temperate, according to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's website. Male snakes seek out females using their sense of smell and then proceed to court the reptile with "pushing, rubbing and weaving movements," according to the website.

"He will rub his chin against the female's neck thereby stimulating her to receptivity," the site says.

kbradshaw@express-news.net

Twitter: @kbrad5

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