Hey there! Are you ready to play a fun game of True or False with me and Squeaks? We’re going to learn some cool facts about one of our favorite animals—snakes! Snakes are super interesting, and there are lots of different kinds. Did you know there are more than 3,500 types of snakes in the world?
Snakes come in all sizes. The smallest snake is as thin as a piece of spaghetti and can curl up on a quarter. On the other hand, a python can grow to be about ten meters long, which is almost as long as a school bus! Some snakes are brightly colored, while others blend in with their surroundings.
What do you think? Are snakes slimy and squishy? (Squeaks squeaks) That’s false! Snakes are reptiles, and like all reptiles, they have skin covered with scales. These scales feel a lot like your fingernails because they’re made of the same stuff. So, snakes feel dry and smooth, not slimy at all!
And are snakes squishy like worms? Nope! Snakes have a skeleton made of bones, just like us. They have a backbone that helps them move in a cool way called slithering. Worms, on the other hand, don’t have a skeleton or a backbone, so they wriggle or crawl instead.
Do snakes attack and chase people? (Squeaks squeaks) That’s false, too! Snakes are usually shy and prefer to hide when people are around. They might bite if they’re scared or can’t get away, so it’s best to give them space and leave them alone.
This one is definitely true! Snakes are very important animals. They eat other animals, like insects, slugs, mice, and rats, which can sometimes cause problems. By eating these animals, snakes help keep the environment balanced, which is good for all living things, including us!
So, if you see a snake, there’s no need to be afraid. You might even want to give it a wave and say, “thank you” for helping keep nature in balance!
Thanks for playing and learning with us on SciShow Kids! If you have any questions, ask a grownup to help you leave a comment or send us an email at [email protected]. See you next time at the Fort!
Snake Skin Exploration: Find a piece of fabric or material that feels smooth and dry, like a snake’s scales. Compare it to something slimy, like a wet sponge. Discuss how they feel different. Can you think of other things that feel smooth and dry like a snake’s skin?
Backbone Bending: Use a string or a piece of yarn to represent a snake’s backbone. Try to move it in a slithering motion on the floor. Now, try the same with a stick or a pencil. Which one moves more like a snake? Discuss why the string is more flexible and how that helps snakes move.
Snake Watch: Next time you are outside, look for places where snakes might like to hide, such as under rocks or in tall grass. Remember, snakes are shy and help keep nature balanced. Talk about why it’s important to give snakes space and how they help the environment by eating pests.
