Cottonmouth, Classic Snake

Cottonmouth Appearance

Cottonmouth snakes, otherwise known as water moccasins, are a medium sized snake, often growing to be four feet in length, and I've even seen up to five feet. They are generally a dark shade of brown or a dull black and will occasionally have lighter banding visible on their sides. The younger snakes have lighter color and more distinct patterns. The body of this snake is considered to be bulky with a distinct neck going into a relatively large, triangular head. The tail also tapers off quickly at the end of the body, from fat to thin. Like most pit vipers, the cottonmouth has pupils which are shaped like slits. This snake is considered very venomous, producing a toxin which prohibits the ability of the blood to clot while destroying tissue on a cellular level. Any area that comes in contact with water moccasin venom will begin to hemorrhage, giving the name "cytotoxic" (similar to ‘hemotoxic’ ) to this type of poison.

Cottonmouth habitat and behavior

Cottonmouths are semi-aquatic snakes, meaning they spend the majority of their lives in the water. They are found predominately in the southern part of the United States, including all of Florida and up the coast, and in the mid south, up the Mississippi River system. living in and near small and large bodies of water. Water moccasins are often mistaken for non-venomous brown water snakes, one of the reasons they are particularly lethal.

Like all pit vipers, the cottonmouth snake has two heat sensing pits located between the eyes and the nostrils. These pits allow the snake to pinpoint live prey and to strike without the need of a visual. This hunting adaptation is particularly useful after dark when most animals’ bodies are warmer than the air around them. Hunting, and most of the snake’s activities, takes place during the night. Because of this, and because the water moccasin spends much of its time in the water, the snake spends a considerable amount of time basking in the sun. The cool water saps the snake’s body temperature much faster than land bound serpents. Basking is an efficient way to regulate body temperature. 

Female snakes will give birth to litters of up to ten live snakes after the spring mating season. The babies are born from eggs which are hatched inside of the female snake and are not developed in a uterus like mammalian animals. Like almost all other reptiles, baby snakes are on their own as soon as they are born. 

Cottonmouth DIET

The cottonmouth eats a large variety of wildlife. Frogs, salamanders, fish, other snakes, birds, rabbits, squirrels, chipmunks, and a host of other small creatures are all fair game to the snake. When a prey animal is detected, the cottonmouth will strike, holding its victim for a moment to allow the full

injection of venom to take place. Once that happens, the snake immediately releases its prey to limit the amount of retaliation, especially from strong mammals. If the prey escapes and runs away, the snake will track it by smell and consume it once it is dead. 

Like the copperhead snake, young cottonmouths will use their tails to lure amphibians to them. Once the unsuspecting frog or salamander is close enough, the baby cottonmouth snake will strike. This method of attracting prey is called ‘caudal luring’. 

Cottonmouth facts: 

The cottonmouth snake gets its name from the defense position the snake takes when it feels threatened. When antagonized, the cottonmouth will coil up and display its fangs, revealing the pale white skin inside of the mouth. 

Cottonmouths are very buoyant, with most of their bodies visible when they swim. Other, non-venomous water snakes will swim with their bodies completely submerged except for the head. 

These snakes can and will attack underwater. 

During the winter, cottonmouths will hibernate, sometimes sharing dens with other venomous snakes. In consistently warm climates, the cottonmouth has been known to not hibernate at all. 

Commonly thought of as an aggressive snake, the cottonmouth’s reputation has been greatly exaggerated. If given the chance, the snake will flee before it will pose to strike. 

The origins of the title ‘water moccasin’ are unknown, though it is speculated that name comes from the leather-like coloration of the snakes or the silent movement akin to that of moccasin wearing Native Americans. 

When do Cottonmouths give birth?

Many people don't know: does the cottonmouth snake lay eggs or give birth to live young? The answer is that they give birth to live young! Usually about ten, but up to twenty, little baby cottonmouth snakes, each about ten inches long. That's how big baby cottonmouth snakes are at birth. Since they don't hatch from eggs, the mother snake is present when they are born, but they then abandon the young, despite some claims that they stick around to protect their offspring. When do they have the young? Usually in August or September. The young are also dangerous, so keep an eye out in late summer!

Why is a water moccasin called cotton mouth - The water moccosin snake, one of the deadly vipers of North America, has a secondary name, one that was given to it for identification purposes. Early settlers were warned of the water moccosin by Native Americans, the culture that is credited for giving the snake its original name. when travelers started fording rivers and deep streams, the danger of the water moccasin became very real. To spread the word in a more reliable manner, the name cotton mouth was given to the snake. This is because, when harassed, the snake will curl up and bare its fangs, exposing its pale, white mouth. The name cotton mouth was far easier to identify with danger than the poorly descriptive ‘water moccasin’.Both terms are still used today to refer to the water-loving serpent. Cotton mouths are often mistaken for common brown water snakes which are nonvenomous. There is no reason to handle a cotton mouth. If you see one sunning itself on the bank, leave it alone. More people are bitten by venomous snakes in an effort to kill them than are bitten from stumbling on the animal by accident. Vipers have the ability to strike with alarming speed and over substantial distance. 

Black Racer? Not Car, it's Snake

Biology

The Black Racer snake, known as Coluber constrictor priapus, is one of the most common types of nonvenomous snakes in the southern United States. One of the telling characteristics of this subspecies of snake is that they are very active during daytime. The physical appearance of a black racer includes having a black dorsal side, a grey belly and a white him. Furthermore, because they are very active during the day, they tend to be a very fast snake. 

Black Racers are considered to be snakes that are color blind. As adults, these snakes can reach up to 55 inches in length (with a maximum of approximately 70 inches). The Racer will also shed its skin once a year. 

The scientific name ‘constrictor’ is a very big misnomer. A Black Racer, although shares some similar characteristics to constrictors, portrays very little of the behavior patterns which give a constrictor its name. For example, a Black Racer does not coil around and suffocate their prey. 

Habitat

The Black Racer snake mainly resides in the southern United States. Also known as a Blue Racer, Blue Runner, and Black Runner, the Black Racer tends to live in areas that are much wooded. This includes forested areas, brushes, thickets, fields and the bigger gardens that are found in suburban yards. One of the main defensive mechanisms of the Black Racer is its ability to vibrate its tail in thick grass; the sound that results is very similar to a Rattlesnake. Because of this, Black Racers are normally found resting and hunting in heavily grassed areas. 

Often, Black Racers around found in a ‘kink’ position in grassy or wooded areas. This position gives the impression that the snake is a fallen branch. This ‘kink’ technique usually occurs when a Black Racer is sleeping or resting and is used to fend off any predators. 

Behavior

The behavior and habits of a Black Racer are very unique. It’s an excellent swimmer, as well as climber, and can move at incredibly quick speeds (which is why it aptly has the term ‘racer’ in its name). Although nonvenomous, a technique often performed by a Racer snake when it’s corned is to bite its prey. In general, Black Racers tend to choose flight over fight but there are times when the snake will pursue its prey. For these reasons, the Black Racer snake is considered a much more domestic and violent snake. 

Humans still remain the greatest threat to the Black Racer species. A large majority of these snakes are killed by vehicles; furthermore, many of this species are killed on purpose out of fear. Its appearance is very similar to a Water Moccasin, a poisonous snake that is found in similar locations as a Black Racer. Other threats to the Black Racer include the hawk, as well as other larger birds. These birds will attack from above. 

Diet

The Black Racer mainly eats animals which are smaller than it. These include insects, moles, birds, smaller snakes, lizards, rodents and most frogs. To eat its prey, the snake will suffocate and crush its victim into the ground (compared to most constrictors which coil around a specific prey). When hunting, a Black Racer will attack quickly, usually attacking in grassy areas – or in water. In general, it chooses its location carefully. Black Racer snakes have a bigger diet than other snakes in the area. This may seem like a negative trait but is actually very positive. Black Racers are known to improve gardens in the suburbs; this is because they remove animals which are detrimental to the garden. 

Reproductive

Normally, breeding and egg laying will occur in the spring and summer months. A maximum of 20 eggs can be laid by each snake. Like other reptiles, Racer Snakes do not protect their young, nor feed their young. Black Racer snakes are born about six inches long and will rely on their camouflage in their early days for survival. Baby Racers look much different than adults. They come born with numerous spots, both black and white. These spots merge together, as well as darken, as the snake grows older. 

On average, the survival rate of newly born Black Racers is around forty percent. This means, in general, around only eight babies survive through the first year of their life. 

Coachwhip Snake Fact and Habitat

Coachwhip Snake Biology

The coachwhip snake (Masticophis flagellum) is a species of snake that is native to the southern continental United States, stretching from the east to west coasts. Coach whips are also native to northern Mexico. Coachwhips are very thin snakes, which is why they are said to resemble a type of whip. Unlike many other snake species the coachwhip has a very thin head that is almost the same width as its body. This can make it difficult to distinguish between the head and the tail of a coachwhip from far away. While they are extremely thin, coachwhips can reach remarkable lengths. Some adult coachwhips reach nearly two meters in length. A more common length for an adult coach whip is over one meter. 

The coachwhip is actually a very diverse species of snake, with several subspecies of coachwhip known to exist. The subspecies include the Sonoran coachwhip, the Eastern coachwhip, the Baja California coachwhip, the Line coachwhip, the Red coachwhip, the San Joaquin coachwhip and the Western coachwhip. Because of this great diversity the coachwhips in one region often have a different coloration pattern than those in another region. In many areas the most common color for a coachwhip is a shade of brown, but green and even pink or red coachwhip specimens have been collected. The coachwhip can have a unique color pattern that changes from the head of the snake to the tail. This is very unusual in most snake species. Coachwhips have very distinctive round eyes that are a deep black with a ring of lighter coloration around the pupil. Their large round pupils give the coachwhip snake extremely keen eyesight. 

Habitat

Coachwhips can be found throughout the southern United States and northern Mexico. They are an extremely common sighting in gardens and yards across states like California, Texas, New Mexico, Louisiana, and Florida. The coach whip usually prefers to live in an open grassy area, such as the southern great plains. However, coachwhip sightings within less dense forest regions are quite common as well. 

Behaviour

Unlike many other colubrid snake species, the coachwhip is diurnal rather than nocturnal. This means that it is most active during the daytime hours between sunrise and sunset. The coachwhip snake’s preference for daytime activities partially account for why it is such a common snake to encounter. Another reason coachwhips are easy to find is that they do not hide much. As active hunters, they are constantly slithering through open grassy areas where a human might encounter them. Although coachwhips are extremely easy to spot because of their active nature during the daytime, catching one is another matter entirely. Coach whips are known to be exceptionally fast snakes. Furthermore, they are cautious and do not like to be in close proximity to humans. This is why most coachwhip sightings occur when a human surprises one and sees the snake rapidly slithering away. Coachwhips have an undeserved reputation of aggression towards humans because of their extremely fast speed on land. In reality, coachwhips do not pose any danger to humans. They are usually nonaggressive towards people and do not produce any venom. A coachwhip bite can cause a bit of pain, but as long as the wound is kept clean the person usually recovers from a coachwhip bite with no serious long-term problems. 

Diet

The coachwhip’s keen eyesight makes it an excellent hunter. The coach whip snake does not passively hunt its prey like many other snakes. Rather it will ACTIVELY go after a potential meal. Coachwhips do not rely on either venom or constriction to capture prey. Instead the coachwhip relies on its speed to quickly grab prey with its mouth. Its diet consists of any small animal it can catch. Because of its geographic locations, the most common prey of the coachwhip snake are other small reptiles including lizards, frogs and snakes, as well as smaller rodents and birds. Occasionally the coachwhip will eat a large insect or spider as well. 

Reproductive

Like most snake species in the United States, coachwhips typically breed during the spring months from March through June. Coachwhips are oviparous, meaning the female lays eggs rather than giving birth to live young that hatched within the mother. Coachwhip eggs take a few months to hatch. The females are unusual in the great number of eggs they can hatch, with some clutches reaching nearly 30 eggs. 

Black Rat Snake, Most Black and Most Amazing

Black Rat Snake Biology

In general, black rat snakes are a medium-sized snake. Their average length is between 40 to 70 inches. The widest point of the snake’s body is usually near the tail section and the snake has an average diameter of around two inches. This length and width makes black rat snakes have a powerful and sleek body that is able to move fluidly horizontally on the ground, as well as vertically in trees. The snake is covered with black keeled scales. It's a black snake – one of the only species with such an opaque color – with a slightly white chin.

Black Rat Snake Habitat & Range

These snakes are mainly found in in the eastern United States and midwest; this includes parts of New England and, spanning west, includes its of Texas and Nebraska. As far as the rat snake species goes, the black rat snake is the most common. They have been known to be found in some northern parts of Oklahoma and, further, have been found in isolated patches within Canada.  They like a variety of habitats, from meadow to forest.

The rat snake species all similar characteristics and much of their habitat is identical. However, each sub-species, including the black rat snake, have their differences. The black rat snake, for example, likes to live in high-altitude regions and tend to find homes in rocky areas; however, certain black snakes, like those from more northern regions, are found to live in flat farmlands. Ultimately, the black rat snake is a very adaptable species that can live in a variety of environments. 

Behavior

Rat snakes are very timid creatures which try to avoid confrontation. Often, they will lie in what is called the 'kink' position. The 'kink' position involves the snake remaining motionless with its body in a slight s-curve. This position is supposed to imitate the look of a fallen branch and, thus, avoid any attacks from unsuspecting predators. Adult black snakes have been known to be more aggressive than young rat snakes. They will rattle their tails to simulate a rattlesnake and will strike if provoked far enough. 

A black rat snakes best defense is its last 'smell release'. When in serious danger, like being attacked by a dangerous predator, the snake will release a foul smelling musk-like smell. The smell is supposed to imitate what a poison-like smell would taste like – on most occasions, this isn't a very effective technique. Region also has an effect on the behavior of a black rat snake. For example, Texas rat snakes are much more snappy and aggressive. 

Diet

Black rat snakes normally eat any kind of rodent that is smaller than they are. This usually consists of small lizards, baby mice and small frogs. Older and larger black rat snakes will eat larger rodents, as well as consume other kinds of mammals. This may include chipmunks, moles and a large variety of mice and rats. Sometimes, a black rat snake, if desperate, will eat bird eggs. 

To eat their food, rat snakes use the constriction technique. This involves them waiting patiently before a prey is unsuspecting; then they will strike, first biting the prey and then moving in and strangling them. The constriction process usually takes some time; then, afterwards, the snake will consume the prey in a single bite. Digestion is very slow, sometimes taking days for food to be fully digested. Adult snakes will only eat once or twice a month, while young snakes will eat weekly. 

Reproduction

Black rat snakes will mate once a year. The mating process is similar in all species of snakes. It involves both the males and females releasing a unique smell around mating time which causes both parties to become prepared for the process. When mating occurs, males will often mate with multiple females. The female will remain pregnant for up to the three months and can give birth to as little as 3 snakes and as much as 80 snakes. 

At birth the snake is independent from the mother. In fact, in some cases, if there is a food shortage, the mother may eat its offspring. Depending on the region, as well as the amount of snakes born, many snakes will die within the first few weeks. This is due to a few reasons such as there not being enough food, to the environment not being completely suitable. 

Coral Snake. Many Habitat in US

Coral Snake Appearance

There are many varieties of coral snakes throughout the Americas, but we will address the USA snakes. The most common species in the United States have a universal red-yellow-black-yellow pattern. Not all coral snakes have the same color scheme, so it is important to be familiar with the snakes specific to your region. This snake is small in comparison to other venomous snakes in the United States. At its longest, an adult can measure around thirty inches. The colorful body is slender and lacks real variance in width. The head blends seamlessly into the body with no distinctive neck. The head of this species of coral snake is always black. 

Coral Snake Habitat and Behavior

There are two types, the Eastern Coral Snake, and the Western Coral Snake. The Eastern is more common, but neither is seen often, because Coral snakes that live in either the southeastern or southwestern United States prefer wooded, marshy, and loose-soiled areas often under debris. They

are very reclusive, staying in the safety of underground burrows or dens during the day and emerging in the evening and early morning to feed. Among their own kind, coral snakes are solitary, showing aggression even during breeding.

Unlike other venomous snakes, the coral snake has round pupils, a blunt head, and no heat sensing pits. Its venom sacks are not attached to the fangs but are adjacent to the teeth, permeating the puncture holes as the snake latches onto a victim. Contrary to common belief, the maximum amount of venom can be delivered without chewing; the venom delivery is related to the duration of time the snake is attached, not how many times it bites its prey. Multiple bites do facilitate quicker venom transfer, but do not necessarily affect the quantity. 

Coral snake venom is neurotoxic, another fact which distinguishes it from other North American poisonous snakes. Neurotoxic venom affects the way the brain communicates with muscles, slurring speech, affecting movement, and ultimately ceasing cardiac or respiratory function. A bite from a coral snake can go without symptoms for as long as twelve hours. 

Unfortunately, due to their bright colors, coral snakes are a favorite of children. Many of the reported bite cases are due to the curiosity of a young person who tried to pick up the reptile. For this reason, it is good that coral snakes are shy and rarely spotted. To avoid trouble, read more about the Snake Rhyme Poem, and information about the Coral Snake Look Alikes, such as the Scarlet Kingsnake, to find out what does a coral snake look like. 

Infant coral snakes hatch from eggs laid by the female snake. Coral snakes do not give birth to live young like many of the other North American venomous snakes. Once born, coral snakes are seven inches long and are already at their full venomous potential. 

Coral Snake Diet

Coral snakes are carnivorous and like a diet of other reptiles and snakes (even other coral snakes). It will occasionally feed on frogs. 

Coral Snake Facts:

• Coral snakes are often confused with some non-venomous snakes of similar coloration. The milk snake and scarlet kingsnake have similar colors but in different patterns.
• Coral snakes are the only venomous snake in North America that is not a pit viper.
• Coral snakes are related to mambas, cobras, and sea snakes.
• A variety of rhymes have been developed to properly identify a coral snake. “Red on yellow, kill a fellow. Red on black, friend of Jack” is just one variation.
• No deaths from a coral snake bite have been reported since 1967 when the antivenin was developed.
  
• The life expectancy of a coral snake in the wild is unknown. In captivity, the snakes will live as long as seven years.
• The fangs of the coral snake cannot be flatted against the roof of the mouth. They are permanently erect.
• Coral snakes around the world come in all varieties of colors from blue and red to black with bright yellow spots.
• Coral snakes are named for the bright, underwater coral explorers discovered along the coasts of the New World.
• When it is threatened, the coral snake will curl up, using its tail in an attempt to confuse the attacker as to which end of the snake is the actual head.

Fact About Banded Water Snake

Banded Water Snake Biology

The banded water snake also known as the Nerodia Fasciata Fasciata is one of the types of snakes that you rarely see. In the southern area of North America is mostly where these snakes are found. Over time, they have adopted many scientific names such as Natrix Sipedon Fasciata, Tropidonotous

Fasciatus, and Coluber Fasciatus. These snakes can grow up to over 40 inches long and they appear as reddish brown or deep brown. Their bellies are yellow in color with red or black spots that are bright enough to be noticed. However, their skin may become darker with age. These snakes often have cross bands on their backs and sides. Some of them are wider while others are narrower. They are keeled, heavy bodied and often lose their banding as they age. 

Habitat

Because these snakes are not known for eating other snakes, they can be put together in groups or with other snakes. They typically enjoy living in freshwater areas like the marshes, lakes, streams, rivers and ponds and are found in the southern area of North America. They can sometimes be found on land, hanging from tree branches and even though they are not very attractive pets, being held captive is not a problem for them. While these snakes are very common in many places especially Florida, they are not very protected either. 

Behavior

Their disposition is quite nasty but they are quite easy to care for if you wanted to take one home to have as a pet. This type of snake will normally flee at the sign of trouble. However, it does not always work out that way. In this case, they will bite and release an irritating musk if they feel threatened. Otherwise, they can live quite comfortably amongst humans or other animals. Avoid picking these snakes up because they will take offense and strike. In some cases, you will find water snakes that will eat food from your hand. However, this is not a chance that you would want to take. These snakes can be found in the day or the night time. However, they are more active at night. 

Diet

Speaking of rodents, if you have a problem with them on your property, a banded water snake will certainly devour them for you. The water snake is always active so they do not eat very much food all at the same time. They may go days without eating. You can expect their diet to consist of tadpoles, crayfish, salamanders, small fishes and frogs. 

Reproductive

Close to the end of the summer months you can expect these snakes to have about 25 or more babies. In fact, it was reported about 10 years ago that one actually had 44 babies in the late months of the summer. This is the most that has been recorded so far. Their babies are known to appear as a bright 8 inches long patterned snake. These snakes are live bearers and their babies have no problem with breeding in a captive environment. Just like their parents, they will strike when they feel in danger and the development of their musk glands is complete when born. They begin mating in the spring and have their children during the summer. 

More Interesting Facts

The banded water snake is often mistaken as the cottonmouth snake or a moccasin which is venomous but appears very similar to the banded water snake. The only real way to tell them apart is by paying attention to their behavior. A banded water snake does not open its mouth wide in an attempt to attack when feeling danger is near. Also, the banded water snake does not find it amusing to switch its tail when it feels somewhat disturbed like the cottonmouth snake does. 

Knowing the differences between these snakes is very important considering it could save you a trip to the hospital. These snakes are found in the same places and often eat some of the same things. It can be very hard to notice the difference until you get close to them and pay close attention to their behavior. 

Fable of Snake

A Greek writer named Aesop wrote many stories called fables.  Fables are stories that are told in order to teach a lesson.  They aren’t necessarily true.  Aesop wrote the following stories about snakes.  The moral, or lesson, of the story is at the end. Here are some examples:

The Laborer and the Snake

A snake, having made his hole close to the porch of a cottage, inflicted a mortal bite on the cottager's infant son. Grieving over his loss, the father resolved to kill the snake.  The next day, when it came out of its hole for food, he took up his axe, but by swinging too hastily, missed its head and cut off only the end of its tail.  After some time the cottager, afraid that the snake would bite him also, endeavored to make peace, and placed some bread and salt in the hole.  The snake, slightly hissing, said: "There can henceforth be no peace between us; for whenever I see you I shall remember the loss of my tail, and whenever you see me you will be thinking of the death of your son."

The lesson: No one truly forgets injuries in the presence of him who caused the injury.

The Farmer and the Snake

One winter a farmer found a snake stiff and frozen with cold. He had compassion on it, and taking it up, placed it in his bosom.  The warmth quickly revived the Snake, and resuming its natural instincts, bit its benefactor, inflicting on him a mortal wound. "Oh," cried the farmer with his last breath, "I am rightly served for pitying a scoundrel."

The lesson: The greatest kindness will not bind the ungrateful.

The Serpent and the Eagle

An Eagle swooped down upon a Serpent and seized it in his talons with the intention of carrying it off and devouring it.  But the Serpent was too quick for him and had its coils round him in a moment; and then there ensued a life-and-death struggle between the two.  A countryman, who was a witness of the encounter, came to the assistance of the eagle, and succeeded in freeing him from the Serpent and enabling him to escape.  In revenge, the Serpent spat some of his poison into the man's drinking-horn.  Heated with his exertions, the man was about to slake his thirst with a draught from the horn, when the Eagle knocked it out of his hand, and spilled its contents upon the ground.

The lesson: One good turn deserves another.  

Myth and Snake Story

All through history snakes have been both good and evil.  Here are some historic examples:

In the Christian bible, the story of Adam and Eve being tempted by the evil snake.  It was the snake (Satan) the tempted Eve with an apple and caused them to be kicked out of the beautiful Garden of Eden.  Also in the Bible, Moses, who went to Egypt to convince the Pharaoh to release the Hebrew slaves, turned his staff (walking stick) into a snake to prove God’s power.

The Ancient Aztecs worshipped the snake. Quetzalcoatl was the “plumed serpent” and was considered the “Master of Life”.

Some African Cultures worshipped rock Pythons and killing a python was a very serious crime.

Aborigines in Australia believed that a giant rainbow serpent was the creator of life.

Many cultures believed that snakes had medicinal or healing powers.

And of course there is the story of St. Patrick who got rid of all the snakes in Ireland.  He is celebrated every year on March 17th.  Supposedly there are no snakes in Ireland to this day.

What about the stories of the snake charmers? Where the charmer plays the flute and the snake slowly comes out of a basket and sways to the music.  Since snakes cannot hear sounds that aren’t vibrating on the ground, they can’t hear the flute music.  The snake is actually following the motion of the flute and usually the charmer is swaying back and forth as well.  The snakes that charmers use are tired out before hand so that they don’t attack the charmer.

Some common snake myths:

• The Death Adder has a sting in its tail.
• Snakes hypnotize their prey. 
• Tiger Snakes chase people. 
• Snakes milk cows. 
• If you kill one of a pair of Tiger Snakes, its mate will hunt you down to take its revenge.
• In Australia, there is a Hoop Snake that takes its tail in its mouth and then goes bowling merrily along.

A Greek writer named Aesop wrote many stories called fables.  Fables are stories that are told in order to teach a lesson.  They aren’t necessarily true.  Aesop wrote the following stories about snakes.

Rattlesnake is Amazing Snake

Rattlesnakes are a group of venomous snakes of the genera Crotalus and Sistrurus of the subfamily Crotalinae ("pit vipers"). The 32 known species of rattlesnakes have between 65 and 70 subspecies, all native to the Americas, ranging from southern Alberta and southern British Columbia in Canada to Central Argentina.

Rattlesnakes are predators that live in a wide array of habitats, hunting small animals such as birds and rodents. They kill their prey with a venomous bite, rather than by constricting. All rattlesnakes possess a set of fangs with which they inject large quantities of hemotoxic venom. The venom travels through the bloodstream, destroying tissue and causing swelling, internal bleeding, and intense pain. Some species, such as the tiger rattlesnake and the Mojave rattlesnake, additionally possess aneurotoxic component in their venom that causes paralysis and other nervous system symptoms.

The threat of envenomation, advertised by the loud shaking of the titular noisemaker ("rattle") at the end of their tails, deters many predators. However, rattlesnakes fall prey to hawks, weasels, king snakes, and a variety of other species. Rattlesnakes are heavily preyed upon as neonates, while they are still weak and mentally immature. Large numbers of rattlesnakes are killed by humans. Rattlesnake populations in many areas are severely threatened by habitat destruction, poaching, and extermination campaigns.

Rattlesnake bites are the leading cause of snakebite injuries in North America. However, rattlesnakes rarely bite unless provoked or threatened; if treated promptly, the bites are rarely fatal.

Prey

Rattlesnakes consume mice, rats, small birds and other small animals. They lie in wait for their prey, or hunt for it in holes. The prey is killed quickly with a venomous bite as opposed to constricting. If the bitten prey moves away before dying, the rattlesnake can follow it by its scent.When it locates the fallen prey, it checks for signs of life by prodding with its snout, flicking its tongue, and using its sense of smell. Once the prey has become incapacitated, the rattlesnake locates its head by odors emitted from the mouth. The prey is then ingested head-first, which allows wings and limbs to fold at the joints in a manner which minimizes the girth of the meal. The gastric fluids of rattlesnakes are extremely powerful, allowing for the digestion of bone, as well as flesh. Optimal digestion occurs when the snake maintains a body temperature between 80 and 85°F (25 and 29°C). If the prey is small, the rattlesnake often continues hunting. If it was an adequate meal, the snake finds a warm, safe location in which to coil up and rest until the prey is digested.

Rattlesnakes are believed to require at least their own body weight in water annually to remain hydrated. The method in which they drink depends on the water source. In larger bodies of water (streams, ponds, etc.), they submerge their heads and ingest water by opening and closing their jaws, which sucks in water. If drinking dew, or drinking from small puddles, they sip the liquid either by capillary action or by flattening and flooding their lower jaws

 

Predators

Newborn rattlesnakes are heavily preyed upon by a variety of species, including ravens, crows, roadrunners, raccoons, opossums, skunks, coyotes, weasels, whipsnakes,kingsnakes, and racers. Neonates of the smaller crotaline species are frequently killed and eaten by small predatory birds such as jays, kingfishers, and shrikes. Some species ofants in the genus Formica are known to prey upon neonates, and Solenopsis invicta (fire ants) likely do, as well. On occasion, hungry adult rattlesnakes cannibalize neonates. The small proportion (often as few as 20%) of rattlesnakes that make it to their second year are heavily preyed upon by a variety of larger predators including coyotes, eagles,hawks, owls, feral pigs, badgers, indigo snakes, and kingsnakes.

The common kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula), a constrictor, is immune to the venom of rattlesnakes and other vipers, and rattlesnakes form part of its natural diet. Rattlesnakes sense kingsnakes' presence by their odor. When they realize a kingsnake is nearby, they begin enacting a set of defensive postures known as "body bridging". Unlike its normal erect and coiled defensive-striking posture, the rattlesnake keeps its head low to the ground in an attempt to prevent the kingsnake from gaining a hold of it (the head being the first part of the rattlesnake to be ingested). The rattlesnake jerks its body about, while bridging its back upwards, forming an elevated coil which faces the kingsnake. The elevated coil is used to strike the attacker, and is also used to shield the head from the kingsnake.

Range and Habitat

Rattlesnakes are native to the Americas, living in diverse habitats from southwestern Canada to central Argentina. The large majority of species live in the American Southwest and Mexico. Four species may be found east of the Mississippi river, and two in South America. In the United States, the states with the most types of rattlesnakes are Texas and Arizona.

Rattlesnakes are found in almost every type of habitat capable of supporting terrestrial ectothermic vertebrates, but individual species can have extremely specific habitat requirements, only able to live within certain plant associations in a narrow range of altitudes. Most species live near open, rocky areas. Rocks offer them cover from predators, plentiful prey (e.g. rodents, lizards, insects, etc. that live amidst the rocks), and open basking areas. However, rattlesnakes can also be found in a wide variety of other habitats including prairies, marshes, deserts, and forests. Rattlesnakes prefer a temperature range between 80 and 90°F (26 and 32°C), but can survive temperatures below freezing, recovering from brief exposure to temperatures as low as 4°F (-16°C), and surviving for several days in temperatures as low as 37°F (3°C).

Evidence has been collected to show the most probable ancestral area of rattlesnakes is the Sierra Madre Occidental region in Mexico. This same study found the most probable vegetation or habitat of the ancestral area to be pine-oak forests. Feeding habits play an important ecological role by limiting the size of rodent populations, which prevents crop damage and stabilizes ecosystems.

Cobra is Very Amazing Snake!

Cobra is the Portuguese word for "snake". In English and in some other languages, it has been adopted as the name for any of various species of venomous snakes. Most of those species are in the family Elapidae, all of which are venomous. Most of them can spread their neck ribs to form a flattened, widened hood.

Not all snakes commonly referred to as cobras are of the same genus, or even in the family Elapidae. The name "cobra" is short for cobra de capelo or cobra-de-capelo, which is Portuguese for "snake with hood", or "hood-snake". In some modern languages, such as Afrikaans, the other part of the Portuguese name was adopted, and the predominant name for a cobra in Afrikaans is "kapel". When disturbed, most of these snakes rear up and spread their necks (or hoods) in a characteristic threat display, making them a favorite of snake charmers because of the dramatic effect. Long ago, snake charming used to be a religious ritual, though nowadays it has become an entertainment. Cobras, which may live up to 20 years, are found from southern Africa, through southern Asia, to some of the islands of Southeast Asia.

Cobra may refer to:

• Naja, also known as typical or "true" cobras (known for raising the front part of the body and flattening the neck in a warning signal when alarmed), a group of elapids found in Africa and Asia. They include over 20 species, including Naja nivea, the cape, a moderately sized, highly venomous cobra inhabiting a wide variety of biomes across southern Africa, Cleopatra's "asp" (the Egyptian cobra, Naja haje) and the Asiatic spectacled cobra Naja naja and monocled cobra, Naja kaouthia.
•  Spitting cobras, a subset of Naja species with the ability to squirt venom from their fangs in self defense
• Hemachatus haemachatus, ringhals, rinkhals or ring-necked spitting cobra, a species of the Elapidae found in Africa
• Any member of the genus Boulengerina, the water cobras, a group of Elapidae found in Africa (now regarded as species in the genusNaja)
• Paranaja multifasciata, the burrowing cobra, an African species of the Elapidae (now regarded as a speciesof Naja)
•  Any member of the genus Aspidelaps, the shield cobras, an African genus in the Elapidae
• Any species of Pseudohaje, the tree cobras, a genus of African Elapidae
• Ophiophagus hannah, the king cobra, an elapid found in parts of India and southern Asia
• Micrurus fulvius, the American cobra or eastern coral snake, a species of the Elapidae found in the southeastern United States and in parts of Cuba.
• Hydrodynastes gigas, the false water cobra, a mildly venomous member of the family Colubridae. It is indigenous to parts of South America and forms a hood if disturbed, though the hood is longer and narrower than those of "true" cobras in the Elapidae.
• Not a common name, but a highly obsolete synonym for the genus Bitis, the adders, a group of venomous vipers found in Africa and parts of the Middle East.

Cobras are famous for the threatening hood at their neck.  They spread the hood out when they feel threatened or angry.  Their hood is made up of flaps of skin attached to long ribs.  They are also able to lift their heads high up off the ground, which is not only kinda scary, but helps them to search for food.  And just to make them a little scarier, they hiss loudly to scare off potential predators.

There are 270 different types of Cobras and their relatives, including Taipans, Adders, Mambas, and many sea snakes including Kraits, and they all have short fangs and are all extremely poisonous. 

Cobras live in hot tropical areas in Africa, Australia, and Southern Asia and their relatives, the Coral Snake, can be found in the United States.  They can be found underground, in trees, and under rocks.  The King Cobra is not only an excellent climber but a super swimmer as well.  They live in forests near streams.

These snakes are hunters and will quietly follow their prey until they are ready to attack.  They can move very fast and can speed along with their heads raised.  Cobras are cannibals, which means that they will eat other snakes as well as birds, bird eggs and small mammals. Kraits feed almost totally on other snakes.

Cobras lay eggs and will stick around to defend them until they hatch.  Wild boars and mongooses will steal cobra eggs. A mongoose will often win fights with Cobras because of their speed and agility.  They also have thick fur to protect them against the cobra’s fangs. 

The Spitting Cobra has a special talent.  Can you guess what it is? That’s right, it can spit! The venom it spits out can spray more than 1.8 meters, or 6 feet. Unfortunately for the one being spit at, this snake has near perfect aim, and will fire straight into the eyes of it’s prey.