Narcisse Snake Dens, 68 mi (110 km) north of Winnipeg, are home to the world's largest snake congregation in the world. In early September (sometimes late August), tens of thousands of red-sided garter snakes gather in the area, preparing to winter in massive limestone sinkholes the size of an average living room. In the flat Interlake region of Manitoba, which is also frozen for half the year, there are no better places for hibernation. Yet the prime time to watch this sea of snakes is when they appear from their dens in spring for mating season. The breeding happens for a short period between late April and mid-May. The actual date varies depending on the temperature. A few days too early or too late, and you won't see many snakes.
When the time comes, males surface first and wait patiently for the generally larger females. As females emerge on the surface, a mating dance begins. Dozens of males gather around a single female creating a so-called "mating ball": all try to mate with her, but only the luckiest one gains the trophy.
People from all around the world visit Southern Manitoba for this ultimate reptile encounter. Usually, kids are keener on interacting with the cold fast-moving "worms," and don't mind holding one, while adults are usually more apprehensive. However, all snakes in the Narcisse Wildlife Management Area are absolutely harmless. Besides, boardwalks are made for visitors to comfortably observe the dens with minimal impact on the natural environment.
Practical info
When is the best time to visit Narcisse Snake Dens?
To watch the Narcisse Snake Dens come alive in action, the recommended time to visit is during the snake’s mating season, from late April to mid-May. The male snakes emerge first, followed by the females. As the exact date varies, it is essential to observe the temperature and opt for sunny days when the snakes’ activity is higher. This experience is a rare occurrence unique to the Narcisse Snake Dens. Show more
Where is Narcisse Snake Dens located?
The world's largest snake congregation can be observed at Narcisse Snake Dens in southern Manitoba, Canada. It is approximately 68 miles (110 kilometers) to the north of Winnipeg and situated in the flat Interlake area of Manitoba. To minimize the detrimental effects on the area's natural environment, boardwalks are created for visitors for comfortable and responsible viewing. Show more
What species of snakes can be found at Narcisse Snake Dens?
Narcisse Snake Dens are home to the species red-sided garter snakes. During the annual mating season, their numbers increase to tens of thousands, and observers have recorded a count of exceeding 70,000. It is entirely safe to observe these harmless species of snakes; however, The Narcisse Wildlife Management Area has strict rules against taking the snakes either from the dens or the wild. Show more
How many snakes can be found in the dens during mating season?
Every year, from late April to mid-May, tens of thousands of red-sided garter snakes conglomerate at Narcisse Snake Dens. This annual mating season invites the female snakes for mating, where dozens of male snakes gather around each of them and create a 'mating ball.' The Narcisse Snake Dens' total number of red-sided garter snakes during this time has been recorded to exceed 70,000, providing an exceptional and rare opportunity for snake lovers and conservation enthusiasts. Show more
Can visitors touch the snakes at Narcisse Snake Dens?
While the red-sided garter snakes found at Narcisse Snake Dens pose no danger, visitors cannot take these harmless creatures from the dens or the wild. For responsible and safe viewing, boardwalks are created for visitors, making minimum impact to the natural environment. It is advisable to maintain a safe distance from the snakes as they are still wild animals and can still behave unpredictably. Show more
