Snakes are a fascinating and often misunderstood creatures. Contrary to popular belief they are not deaf. They actually have a very good sense of hearing which is helpful for their survival.
There are two small holes on the sides of a snake’s head just behind the eyes. These are the snake’s ear openings. Inside the head the ear canal is attached to the jawbone. Unlike our ear canals a snake’s ear canal is very short.
The hearing organs of a snake are called the auditory bullae. These are two sacs that are filled with air and are connected to the ear canal. The auditory bullae help to amplify sound waves making it easier for the snake to hear.
Snakes use their sense of hearing to locate prey to avoid predators and to communicate with other snakes. They are especially sensitive to low-frequency sounds such as the vibrations of approaching footsteps.
References:
https://www.livescience.com/28499-snakes-ears.html
https://www.britannica.com/animal/snake/Hearing-and-reproduction#ref406840
https://animalcorner.co.uk/animals/snakes/senses/
Does a snake have ears?
No snakes do not have ears.
What Order does a snake belong to?
Snakes belong to the taxonomic order Squamata.
What distinguishes a snake from other reptiles?
Snakes are distinguished from other reptiles by their lack of limbs and eyelids.
What is the average size of a snake?
The average size of a snake is 3-6 feet but some species can grow to be up to 30 feet long.
What is the diet of a snake?
Snakes are carnivores and typically eat small mammals such as rodents or birds.
How often do snakes eat?
Snakes typically eat once every 1-2 weeks but this varies depending on the size of the snake and its prey.
How do snakes digest their food?
Snakes digest their food by first crushing it with their teeth and then swallowing it whole.
How do snakes move?
Snakes move by slithering on their bellies across the ground.
What is the body temperature of a snake?
The body temperature of a snake is between 86 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit.
What is the average lifespan of a snake?
The average lifespan of a snake is 20 years but some species can live up to 40 years.
How do snakes reproduce?
Snakes reproduce by laying eggs.
How many eggs does a snake typically lay?
A snake typically lays 10-50 eggs at a time.
Where do snakes lay their eggs?
Snakes typically lay their eggs in a hidden safe place such as in a burrow or under a rock.
How long does it take for a snake egg to hatch?
It takes anywhere from 7-10 weeks for a snake egg to hatch.
What is the first thing a snake does when it hatches from its egg?
The first thing a snake does when it hatches from its egg is to shed its egg tooth which is a small sharp tooth used to break through the egg’s shell.
