There are more than 2,700 snakes varieties spread all over the world in temperate and warm climates; the only part of the globe where snakes cannot live is Antarctica. Snakes vary in size from a few centimeters to more than nine meters in the case of the anacondas or the pythons. Venomous snakes are a minority in this huge reptile family, but venom they inject in prey is so powerful that it could cause the death of a human being within a few minutes. Chronological research indicates that, the history and origins of snakes are lost in the Cretaceous period, some 150 million years ago, when snakes are assumed to have evolved from a lizard and changed their living environment.
Some modern species still carry primitive distinctive marks, this is the case with pythons and boas that still carry hind limbs remains, which only point to a past when snakes were more lizard-like than they are today. Snakes or serpents making the subject of symbolic creations and being widely represented in the arts. Mankind hunted down or worshiped snakes throughout its history; yet, modern attitudes have changed towards snakes particularly under the emphasis of the ecological movements that stress out the importance of these creatures for the balance of ecosystems. And many factors confirm such opinions.
There are many aspects in the life of snakes that fascinate scientists and indicate that there are more things to learn about the many existing species. Thus, a study of the colored patterns on the body of snakes indicates incredible differentiation details between individuals belonging to the same family. Then, snakes' response to vibrations, the incredible sense of smell and even the reception of low frequency sounds indicate the fact that snakes are fascinating. Infrared sensitivity and the ability to detect body warmth from the distance, causes further awe among snakes researchers.
Snakes share their habitat with us, and people from areas with a higher variety of snake groups and sub-groups should learn to distinguish between the dangerous or harmless specimens, and thus they reduce the risk of snakebites. Non-venomous snakes are not that friendly when sensing danger, therefore, a avoidance and respect of the snakes' habitat remain the most effective prevention means. Do not attempt to catch, hunt or kill snakes: they only feed and defend themselves as they cannot hold grudge and follow you just for the sake of biting. Be extremely cautious when keeping snakes as pets.
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