Among them, snakes are unfortunately still the most misunderstood group of animals. Here are a few characteristics that would help us to learn that snakes are also among the coolest and fascinating creatures on the planet.
1. As per the latest statistical data, there are around 4,000 species of snakes present today. They are found everywhere across the globe, except Antarctica, Iceland, Ireland, Greenland and New Zealand.
2. All snakes are legless, but not all reptiles that lack limbs are snakes.
3. Snakes kill either by striking venom or by constricting the victim to death.
4. Out of the total number of species of snake, only 1/3rd is harmful to humans.
5. While 600 species are venomous, only about 200 (7%) can significantly kill or harm a human.
6. Though the snakes are mostly terrestrial, there are around 70 species of snakes that are aquatic.
7. Snakes come in a variety of sizes, ranging from 10 centimetres to a massive 9 metres.
8. Five species of snakes can fly.
9. Mostly, they are oviparous (egg-laying) in nature, but there are a few species that are viviparous (giving birth).
10. Sea kraits are poisonous, but almost harmless to humans, as they are gentle, shy and have too short fangs to do any damage.
11. Scales serve several purposes. It traps moisture in an arid climate and reduces friction as the snakes move.
12. There are around 100 species of snakes that are listed endangered, by the IUCN Red List.
The animal kingdom never fails to fascinate us. there are so much more to learn about them. Keep visiting for more such cool insights.
