The sound of a snake hissing is distinctive and often makes you stop in your tracks. If your pet snake is hissing, you might wonder why. While humans don't "speak snake," understanding why your snake hisses can help ensure its comfort and safety, and protect you from potential bites.

Just like animals use sounds or body language to communicate, snakes also have their own way of expressing themselves. A hiss from a snake typically signals "back off!"—a warning that it feels threatened, angry, or annoyed.

How Do Snakes Hiss?

Snakes produce a hissing sound through a structure in their throat called the glottis. This is a small opening at the base of the mouth that connects to the windpipe, allowing the snake to breathe while swallowing large prey. Within the glottis is a tiny piece of cartilage that vibrates when the snake exhales forcefully, creating the familiar hissing noise.

Why Do Snakes Hiss?

All snakes can hiss, though some do so more frequently than others. Wild snakes tend to hiss more than those in captivity because they often face greater threats and use hissing as a defense mechanism.

Interestingly, snakes don’t hiss to communicate with each other. Hissing is intended to deter potential predators rather than fellow snakes, as the frequency of the sound is too high for snakes to hear.

Reasons Your Snake Might Hiss

Fear: A pet snake might hiss if startled, such as when being picked up unexpectedly. To avoid surprising your snake, approach it calmly and use slow, deliberate movements to signal your intentions. Baby snakes may hiss more often than adults as they are still adjusting to handling.

Digestion: Experts advise against handling your snake immediately after it has eaten. Snakes need time to digest their food, which can take days or even weeks depending on the species and meal size. Avoid picking up your snake during this period to prevent discomfort or stress.

Shedding: Handling should also be minimized when your snake is about to shed. Snakes shed their skin several times a year, and during this process, they may be more irritable or anxious, partly due to impaired vision. If your snake is nearing or in the midst of shedding, it’s best to refrain from handling it to avoid additional stress.

What to Do if Your Snake Is Hissing

Hissing is a way for snakes to communicate discomfort, fear, or irritation. If your snake hisses, stop handling it and allow it some time alone. Try to determine the cause of the hissing so you can address any issues and help your snake feel more at ease.