Most of the time, snakes only make the news when they show up somewhere unexpected– inside a scooter, on a temple step, or in someone’s backyard.
That’s usually enough to cause panic. But beyond all the fear and folklore, snakes are actually fascinating creatures that play an important role in nature.
Here are five simple, fact-based things about snakes that might help you see them a little differently.
1. They rely on outside heat to function
Snakes are cold-blooded. That means they don’t create body heat like humans or other mammals do. If the weather’s warm, they’re active. If it’s cold, they slow right down. So when you see a snake sunbathing on a rock, it’s not just relaxing– it’s trying to warm up enough to move or digest food.
2. They don’t blink ever
3. Their tongue works like a scent detector
Yes, snakes have nostrils. But when it comes to smelling, it’s their tongue that does most of the work. Every time they flick it out, they’re picking up tiny scent particles from the air. Those signals go to a part of their mouth called the Jacobson’s organ, which helps them figure out what’s nearby– food, danger, or a mate.
5. They quietly keep nature in balance
Snakes might not seem important, but they’re key players in many ecosystems. They feed on rats and mice, which helps farmers and reduces disease risks. And they’re part of the food chain too– prey for birds, mongooses, and other predators. They don’t just survive in the wild– they help keep it running smoothly.