If they're really enthusiastic about it, they will find ways to lock. But mostly I find they're content to cuddle together rather than engaging in the relevant activity. So I leave the hides out when pairing.
I do pair them on newsprint paper, and my pied female likes to tunnel under the paper and "make" her own extra-large hide. This behavior doesn't seem to interfere with breeding at all.
That's very useful info...
BTW that Cinny or Het Red on that Picture?? Just wondering
1.0 Striped African House Snake "Marduk"
0.1 Striped African House Snake Ishtar
1.0 black phase Brown House Snake Seth
0.1 black phase Brown House Snake Nephthys