Do snakes have necks? It’s a common question with a simple answer: yes snakes do have necks!
But the question of whether or not snakes have necks is more complicated than it might first appear. To understand why we need to take a closer look at the anatomy of snakes.
Snakes are vertebrates meaning they have a backbone made up of vertebrae. These vertebrae are connected by joints and it is these joints that give snakes their flexibility.
The neck is the part of the body between the head and the chest. In vertebrates the neck is made up of seven cervical (neck) vertebrae. These vertebrae are smaller and more fragile than the vertebrae in the rest of the spine.
In mammals the neck is a relatively short and thick section of the body. In reptiles however the neck can be much longer and thinner. This is because the cervical vertebrae in reptiles are not fused together as they are in mammals.
One of the defining features of snakes is that they have very long necks. In some cases the neck can be almost as long as the rest of the body!
The length of a snake’s neck is due to the number of cervical vertebrae it has. While mammals have seven cervical vertebrae snakes can have anywhere from nine to over 400!
The number of cervical vertebrae is determined by the species of snake. For example pythons and boas have between 23 and 34 vertebrae while garter snakes have around 15.
Some snakes such as the king cobra have very short necks. This is because their cervical vertebrae are fused together making the neck shorter and thicker.
The neck is an important part of a snake’s body and it plays a number of roles.
First the neck allows the snake to turn its head and see in all directions. This is important for predators who need to be able to see their prey and for prey who need to be able to see predators.
Second the neck allows the snake to strike at prey or predators. The long necks of some snakes such as the cobra give them a large striking range.
Third the neck allows the snake to swallow prey whole. Some snakes such as the boa constrictor have necks that are as wide as their heads. This allows them to swallow prey that is much larger than their heads.
Fourth the neck protects the vital organs in the snake’s body. In many snakes the heart and lungs are located in the center of the body behind the neck. This protects them from being damaged by the snake’s prey.
So do snakes have necks? Yes they do! And the neck is an important part of the snake’s anatomy.
Are snakes vertebrates?
Yes snakes are vertebrates.
What distinguishes snakes from other reptiles?
Snakes are distinguished from other reptiles by their lack of legs.
How do snakes move?
Snakes move by crawling or slithering across the ground.
What is the manufacturing process of snake venom?
Snake venom is manufactured in the snake’s venom glands.
How do snakes kill their prey?
Snakes kill their prey by injecting them with venom.
What are the effects of snake venom?
The effects of snake venom depend on the type of venom and the amount injected but can include swelling tissue damage paralysis and death.
What is the most venomous snake in the world?
The most venomous snake in the world is the inland taipan.
How do snakes swallow their prey?
Snakes swallow their prey whole often stretching their mouths wide open to accommodate their prey’s size.
How do snakes digest their prey?
Snakes digest their prey using enzymes in their saliva.
What are the benefits of venom?
Venom is used by snakes for self-defense and for killing prey.
It can also be used for medical purposes such as the production of antivenom.
What are the dangers of venom?
Venom can be dangerous to humans and other animals if it is injected in large quantities.
How can I tell if a snake is venomous?
Venomous snakes usually have fangs which are long sharp teeth used for injecting venom.
They may also have a special venom-producing gland.
What should I do if I am bitten by a snake?
If you are bitten by a snake you should seek medical attention immediately.
If possible try to identify the type of snake so that the correct antivenom can be administered.
What are some common myths about snakes?
Some common myths about snakes include that they are slimy have multiple heads and can fly.
What are some interesting facts about snakes?
Some interesting facts about snakes include that they can sense vibrations see in the dark and taste with their tongues.
