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Rat snakes hibernate every year. They hibernate in hibernacula on rocky, south-facing slopes, preferably with some trees for basking. In a study by Prior and Weatherhead (1996)2, it was found that per rat snake, 0-11 trees were used for basking, and that their preferred trees were older oaks, as they have numerous cavities and trunks for cover.

Their lifespan in the wild is up to 15 years, males living a little longer than females. In captivity they can live up to 25 years, reaching maturity after 18-24 months.

The gestation period of females is approx. 1 month, and up to 30 eggs are laid in a clutch, with variation between sub-species.
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