Facts about snakes
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Snakes have fascinated and scared people for thousands of years. With more than 3,400 species, snakes can be found on every continent except Antarctica. Here are some interesting facts about these legless reptiles:
- Snakes are not slimy: While snakes can appear slick or wet, their skin is actually dry and somewhat rough.
- Snakes are carnivorous: Snakes eat a wide variety of prey, including insects, birds and rodents. Some larger snakes can even consume whole deer or antelope.
- Snakes can go for weeks without eating: Depending on the species, snakes can go anywhere from a few days to several weeks without food.
- Snakes can swim and climb: Some species of snakes are excellent swimmers and can climb trees or other objects to hunt or escape predators.
- Most snakes are not venomous: Of the more than 3,400 species of snakes, only about 600 are venomous. However, it is important to remember that all wild snakes should be treated with caution.
- Some snakes give birth to live young: While the majority of snake species lay eggs, some give birth to live young. This is known as viviparity.
- Snakes shed their skin: Like other reptiles, snakes shed their skin periodically as they grow. Some species shed their skin several times per year, while others may only shed once a year.
- Snakes have poor eyesight but excellent senses of smell and hearing: While snakes may not be able to see very well, they have excellent senses of smell and hearing which help them locate prey.
- Some snakes can fly: While they don’t really fly, a few species of snake, such as the paradise tree snake, can glide through the air using their body to create lift.
- Snakes can live a long time: Depending on the species, snakes can live from just a few years to several decades in the wild.
Snakes may be feared by many people, but they play an important role in the natural world as predators and prey. By learning more about these fascinating creatures, we can develop a greater appreciation for the diversity of life on our planet.