Interestingly snakes have very good eyesight and can see in both infrared and ultraviolet light. Their eyes are protected by a transparent scale called the spectacle. Behind the spectacle is a thin white membrane called the tapetum lucidum. This reflects light back through the retina a second time which gives snakes excellent night vision. Some snakes such as the boa constrictor have heat-sensitive pits on their faces. These pits can detect infrared radiation which allows the snake to “see” the heat signature of its prey.
What is the process that allows snakes to see?
Snakes have something called a pineal eye which is a light-sensing organ on the top of their head that helps them see.
How many eyelids do snakes have?
Snakes have two eyelids: an upper and a lower.
What do the eyelids of a snake do?
The eyelids of a snake protect the eyes and keep them moist.
How do snakes see in the dark?
Snakes have special eyes that can see in the dark.
What are the pits on a snake’s head?
The pits on a snake’s head are called heat-sensing pits.
They help the snake identify warm-blooded prey.
How does a snake move its body?
A snake moves its body by contracting and relaxing its muscles.
What does a snake use its tongue for?
A snake uses its tongue to smell its environment.
What is the difference between a venomous snake and a nonvenomous snake?
A venomous snake has fangs that are connected to venom glands while a nonvenomous snake does not have these.
How does a venomous snake kill its prey?
A venomous snake kills its prey by injecting venom into it.
How does a nonvenomous snake kill its prey?
A nonvenomous snake kills its prey by constricting it which cuts off the prey’s blood supply.
What is the biggest snake in the world?
The biggest snake in the world is the reticulated python which can grow up to 30 feet long.
What is the smallest snake in the world?
The smallest snake in the world is the thread snake which grows to be about 4 inches long.
What kind of environment do snakes live in?
Snakes can live in a variety of environments including forests deserts and swamps.
How long do snakes live?
Snakes can live for a few years or up to several decades.
What do snakes eat?
Snakes eat a variety of animals including rodents birds and other snakes.
