There are more than 3000 species of snakes in the world and they can be found on every continent except Antarctica. Snakes can be found in a variety of habitats including forests deserts and wetlands.
Most snakes are terrestrial meaning they live on the ground but there are also a number of species that are semi-aquatic meaning they spend part of their time in the water. There are even a few species of snakes that are fully aquatic living their entire lives in the water.
Some snakes such as the king cobra can live in trees. Others like the boa constrictor can live in burrows underground.
The climate and temperature of a snake’s habitat can also vary greatly. Snakes in colder climates may hibernate during the winter while those in hotter climates may aestivate (similar to hibernation but in response to hot dry conditions).
Snakes are ectothermic meaning they rely on the environment to regulate their body temperature. This is why you often see snakes basking in the sun – they are trying to warm up!
Where in the world do snakes live?
Answer 1: Snakes can be found on every continent except for Antarctica.
Do all snakes live in warm climates?
Answer 2: No some snakes live in very cold climates.
For example the walrus snake lives under the ice in the Arctic Ocean.
How do snakes stay warm if they live in a cold climate?
Answer 3: Snakes can regulate their body temperature by basking in the sun or finding a warm spot to rest.
How do snakes stay cool if they live in a warm climate?
Answer 4: Snakes will often find a shady spot to rest or bask in the cool air.
How do snakes stay hydrated?
Answer 5: Snakes drink water or eat prey that is high in moisture content.
What do snakes eat?
Answer 6: Snakes are carnivorous and eat a variety of prey including rodents lizards other snakes birds and eggs.
How do snakes hunt?
Answer 7: Snakes use a variety of methods to hunt depending on the species.
Some snakes will lie in wait for prey to come close while others will actively search for prey.
How do snakes kill their prey?
Answer 8: Snakes kill their prey by constricting them which cuts off their oxygen supply and eventually leads to death.
Do all snakes constrict their prey?
Answer 9: No some snakes will kill their prey by biting them and injecting them with venom.
What is the difference between venomous and poisonous snakes?
Answer 10: Venomous snakes have fangs and produce venom that is injected into their prey.
Poisonous snakes do not have fangs and produce venom that is secreted from their skin.
How do snakes move?
Answer 11: Snakes move by slithering on their bellies.
Some snakes can also climb trees and swim.
How do snakes see?
Answer 12: Snakes have poor eyesight and rely mostly on their sense of smell to locate prey and navigate their environment.
Do snakes have ears?
Answer 13: Although snakes do not have visible ears they can still hear.
Snakes pick up vibrations through their jawbone which is connected to their inner ear.
How do snakes reproduce?
Answer 14: Most snakes reproduce by laying eggs but some species give birth to live young.
How long do snakes live?
Answer 15: The average lifespan of a snake is 10-12 years but some species can live up to 30 years.
