Snake are elongated, legless reptiles found on every continent except Antarctica. They belong to the group of reptiles and are closely related to lizards.
Most snakes are non-venomous, and many are completely harmless to humans. However, some species—like cobras, vipers, and rattlesnakes—produce venom used to hunt prey or defend themselves.
Key traits
Snakes have a highly flexible body with hundreds of vertebrae and ribs, which lets them move in several ways: slithering forward, sidewinding (common in desert species), or even climbing trees.
They don’t have eyelids or external ears. Instead, they “smell” using their tongue and a special organ called the Jacobson’s organ, which helps them detect chemicals in the air.
Diet
All snakes are carnivores. They typically eat:
- rodents
- birds
- eggs
- frogs and fish
- sometimes other snakes
They swallow prey whole, thanks to extremely flexible jaws.
Habitat
Snakes live in many environments:
- forests
- deserts
- oceans (sea snakes)
- grasslands
- even urban areas
Interesting fact
Snakes shed their skin regularly as they grow, a process called ecdysis. Some species shed several times a year.