Not all snakes lay eggs, but a significant portion of snake species are egg-layers. Snakes are classified into two main groups based on their reproductive methods: oviparous and viviparous.

Oviparous snakes are those that lay eggs. The female snake develops and lays eggs, typically in a suitable location such as underground burrows or rotting vegetation. The eggs then develop and hatch. Examples of venomous oviparous snake species include King Cobras (Ophiophagus hannah) and Black Mambas (Dendroaspis polylepis).

On the other hand, viviparous snakes give live birth to their young. In viviparous species, the female retains the eggs internally and provides nourishment to the developing embryos through a placental-like structure. The young snakes are born fully formed and independent. One Example of venomous viviparous snake species is the Western Diamondback Rattlesnakes (Crotalus atrox).

It’s worth noting that there is also a third category called ovoviviparous. Ovoviviparous snakes retain the eggs internally, but the embryos develop inside eggs within the female’s body. The eggs hatch internally, and the female gives birth to live young. Copperheads (Agkistrodon genus) are examples of ovoviviparous snakes.

Overall, while a significant number of snake species lay eggs, there are also species that give live birth, showcasing a range of reproductive strategies among snakes.