Snake Facts
There are more than 2,700 snakes varieties spread all over the world in temperate and warm climates; the only part of the globe where snakes cannot live is Antarctica. The diversity of the 2,700 snakes species is relevant in the size differences too: there are some only a few centimeters long while others reach the impressive length of nine meters like the anacondas or the pythons. Poisonous snakes are far less numerous in this huge reptile family, but venom they inject in prey is so powerful that it could kill a human being within a few minutes. According to studies, the history and origins of snakes are lost in the Cretaceous period, some 150 million years ago, when snakes are assumed to have evolved from a lizard and adapted to a different living environment.
Some modern species still carry primitive distinctive marks, this is the case with pythons and boas that still have vestiges of hind limbs, which only make us think of a past when snakes resembled lizards a lot more. Snakes or serpents are present in all cultures, carrying symbolic meanings and being widely illustrated in the arts. Worshiped or hunted down as evil creatures, snakes surely have a fascination on human mind; yet, modern attitudes have changed towards snakes under the pressure of ecologist organization that insist on the importance of these creatures for the balance of ecosystems. And they couldn't be more right.
There are many aspects in the life of snakes that fascinate scientists and indicate that there are more things to learn about the many existing species. Thus, a study of the colored patterns on the body of snakes indicates incredible differentiation details between individuals belonging to the same family. Then, snakes' response to vibrations, the incredible sense of smell and even the reception of low frequency sounds indicate the fact that snakes are fascinating. Infrared sensitivity and the ability to detect body warmth from the distance, causes further awe among snakes researchers.
Common habitats for humans and snakes are a reality, and people living in areas with a higher variety of snake groups and sub-groups develop skills to distinguish between the dangerous or harmless varieties, and thus they reduce the risk of snakebites. Non-venomous snakes could also bite and injure one seriously when sensing danger, therefore, a healthy attitude towards such animals will save you a lot of trouble. Do not attempt to catch, hunt or kill snakes: they only feed and defend themselves as they cannot hold grudge and follow you just for the sake of biting. Be extremely cautious when keeping snakes as pets.
Feb 03, 2010 | 1 | exotic pet care tips
July 2nd, 2010 at 6:58 pm
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