The simple answer is yes snakes can slither backwards. This is because they have adaptations that enable them to do so.
The main adaptation that allows snakes to slither backwards is the shape of their scales. Snake scales are curved and have a keel (a raised ridge) which helps them grip the ground and provides traction when the snake is moving forwards. However the same adaptations also enable the snake to move backwards just as easily.
Some snakes such as the boa constrictor have another adaptation that allows them to move backwards more easily – they have a pair of backwards-facing spurs on their hind legs. These spurs help the snake grip the ground and move backwards.
So to summarise snakes can move backwards because of the shape of their scales and the presence of spurs on their hind legs (in some species).
Can snakes slither backwards?
Yes snakes can slither backwards if they need to.
How do snakes move if they can’t see where they’re going?
Snakes use something called Braille to help them move around.
How does Braille work?
Braille is a system of raised dots that snakes can feel with their bellies.
Do all snakes use Braille?
No not all snakes use Braille.
Some snakes like the ones that live in trees have different methods of moving around.
How do snakes that live in trees get around?
Snakes that live in trees use their sense of smell to help them find their way around.
Do all snakes have a sense of smell?
Yes all snakes have a sense of smell.
How does a snake’s sense of smell work?
A snake’s sense of smell is very sensitive.
They can smell things in the air and also by touching things with their tongue.
How does a snake’s tongue work?
A snake’s tongue is forked and each fork has a different job.
One fork is for tasting and the other is for smelling.
Do all snakes have forked tongues?
No not all snakes have forked tongues.
Some snakes have a single tongue that is not forked.
How do snakes use their tongue to smell?
When a snake wants to smell something they flick their tongue out and touch the object with their tongue.
Then they bring their tongue back into their mouth and touch it to the roof of their mouth.
This lets them taste the smell.
How far can a snake’s tongue reach?
A snake’s tongue can reach up to about one third of their body length.
Do all snakes have the same tongue length?
No not all snakes have the same tongue length.
Some snakes have longer tongues than others.
How does a snake’s tongue help them eat?
A snake’s forked tongue helps them to eat by picking up vibrations from their prey.
This helps them to find their food and to know when to strike.
How does a snake’s tongue help them breathe?
A snake’s tongue helps them to breathe by picking up air particles and bringing them into the snake’s lungs.
How does a snake’s tongue help them to see?
A snake’s tongue helps them to see by picking up vibrations in the air.
This helps them to find their way around and to know when something is coming.
