When most people see a snake, their instinctive reaction is fear and panic. But can snakes actually sense when we are scared? Snakes can not sense or understand human emotions like fear. However, they can react to how you act when you are sacred – such as sudden movements, stomping, or even increased body heat. … Read more
Snakes in general are very adaptable creatures. They can change their lifestyle to best suit the type of habitat they are in. An injured snake can survive if the injury is moderate and does not affect its internal organs or its ability to move and eat. Snakes’ bodies have a remarkable ability to heal. They … Read more
The vast majority of snakes have thin sharp teeth, highly adapted for catching and holding prey. Venomous snakes like rattlesnakes and copperheads, have fangs in addition to teeth. They use these fangs to deliver venom when they bite to subdue prey or for defense. Snakes can replace their fangs, and other teeth throughout their life. … Read more
Most snakes have teeth which they use to firmly grip prey, and prevent it from escaping. Venomous snakes also have fangs in addition to teeth. They use these fangs to inject venom into prey before it is swallowed. While most snakes have visible teeth in the mouth, African egg eating snakes (Dasypeltis) have no visible … Read more
Snakes are the second largest group of reptiles after lizards. These animals live in a wide variety of habitats from forests to deserts, and even urban areas. Sometimes, snakes wander into people’s backyards and even enter homes. Snakes often enter houses in search of food, water, or protection from the elements. If a snake can … Read more
Snakes in general, are very adaptable animals. Many species change change their diet, based on the food sources available in their environment. Snakes can never be vegetarian, or herbivorous. All snakes are obligate carnivores, meaning they only eat animal-based foods and do not eat any plants. That said, snakes may occasionally ingest plant matter when … Read more
There are several species of wild berry plants in North America referred to as “snake berries“. Their name often causes confusion, and many people wonder if snakes are drawn to these plants. Snake berries do not directly attract snakes. However, the cool, shady environments these plants create, are very attractive to snakes. Snake berries provide … Read more
In the winter, we don’t see any snakes moving around, or exploring their environment. This is because snakes, like all reptiles, rely on their environment to regulate their body temperature. Snakes are ectothermic (cold-blooded) animals, which means they cannot regulate their body temperature. Their body temperature changes as the temperature in their surroundings changes. When … Read more
Snake plants (Dracaena trifasciata) are succulent plants native to west and central Africa. These plants are commonly kept as houseplants, due to their low maintenance and hardy nature. Snake plants do not attract snakes. The name “snake plant” refers to the plant’s appearance, with its long, upright leaves that form snake-like patterns. These plants have … Read more
Gardeners and homeowners sometimes use rubber snakes to deter, birds and other small animals such as mice and squirrels. But do these props attract real snakes? Rubber snakes do not attract real snakes. They do not have a scent, body heat, movement, or chemical cues that can be picked up by snakes. Their presence, or … Read more