Unlike other animals, snakes are not blessed with limbs. Therefore, it is fascinating to see how it moves without them. They will be moving using their long, slender, and flexible body composed of a spine wherein about 400 ribs are connected. The strong muscles also play a crucial role in helping them swim, crawl, and climb. The scales will also help them have a firm grip on the surface that will give them enough traction to push forward.
How do Snakes Slither?
Snakes will slither since they do not have limbs. They basically rely on their scales, muscles, and bones. The snake scales are made from a mineral called keratin, which is the same material found in the human's fingernail. This part is essential in helping the snakes maneuver on a range of surfaces. When the snakes move, some sections of its scales will touch the surface while the others will not. They will drag the scales against the surface that will help them move. The snakes' strong muscles help lift some of the scales that allow them to move on rough surfaces such as the branches of the trees. Since it would be difficult for their scales to grip on a smoother surface, it will be challenging for them to navigate on slippery surfaces.
What Are the Different Types of Movement of the Snake?
Generally, the movement of the snake will appear like they are using a twisting motion. However, their manner of locomotion can be separated into distinct types of mechanism.
Rectilinear- This kind of movement has only been discovered recently and will not fit the conventional definition you will find in the textbooks. Here, the snake will be moving in a straight line while its body is stretched. This kind of movement will often be seen on voluminous and large snakes since it will help them move inside the hole of a burrowing animal.
Sidewinding/Lateral Displacement- This will often be observed on snakes that live in the arid desert. This is where the sidewinder rattlesnake earned its name. The snake will create a vertical wave that will minimize their physical contact with the scorching surface. Therefore, it will appear like they are moving laterally.
Accordion/Concertina- The snake's body will twist or coil while expanding and contracting, just like an accordion.
Serpentine- This is the type of movement that most of us are familiar with. It allows the snake to move at a more incredible velocity. Their locomotion is like a sinusoidal wave.
Apart from this movement, some snakes can glide through the air. They can move at an average of 30ft. The distance can be more significant if there is a strong wind that will push their body forward. Some snakes will swim; their scales can help them restrain the slippery scales of the fish. Despite the missing limbs, the snake can swiftly move in different terrains and landscapes to help them capture their prey with ease.
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