It is common that, when hearing the words snake, snake o viper, you might think of them as a single animal, but the reality is that they are not synonyms. Although they belong to the same suborder of reptiles, there are important differences between them. In this article, we will explain in detail what is the difference among snakes, vipers and serpents, so that you can identify them correctly.
These categories are not only distinguished by their physical characteristics, but also by their lifestyle, behaviour and danger. Find out below what distinguishes each of these fascinating reptiles.
General characteristics of snakes
Snakes are reptiles that are characterized by the absence of legs, an elongated body covered with scales and the ability to move by lateral undulations. They are distributed throughout the world, except at the poles.
Among the distinctive characteristics of snakes are:
- Missing limbs: Although they do not have legs, their mobility is not compromised thanks to their ventral scales that allow them to crawl on the ground.
- ScalesSnakes have scales that cover their entire body, and they periodically shed their skin in a process called ecdysis, which helps them get rid of parasites.
- Without eyelidsAnother distinctive feature is the absence of movable eyelids, which gives the impression that snakes always keep their eyes open.
- Teeth and poisonSome species, such as cobras or vipers, have specialized fangs for injecting venom, while others, such as pythons, kill their prey by constriction.
Within this group, there are both poisonous snakes and those that are harmless to humans. Some of the most lethal are the vipers and snakes, while other species, such as the good y pythons, they hunt by constriction.
What are snakes?
The snakes They belong to the family of colubrids and, although they are part of the suborder of snakes, they are distinguished by their own characteristics.
Of the approximately 1800 species Of snakes, most are not poisonous or, if they are, their venom is not harmful to humans. Among the best known species are the water snake and necklace snake, both common in Spain.
Snakes usually have the following characteristics:
- Large scales on the head: Unlike vipers, snakes have larger, smoother scales on their heads.
- Round pupils: Their pupils are round, which is another distinctive feature compared to the vertical pupils of vipers.
- shape and size: They can reach between 20 cm and up to 3 meters in length. Some species, such as the ladder snake, they can climb.
Some snakes, like the famous viperine snake, have developed an appearance that mimics vipers to defend themselves from predators. However, they are not poisonous.
What are vipers?
The vipers They are a family of venomous snakes belonging to the family viperidaeThey are characterized by having a triangle head and long, hollow fangs that retract into the palate when not in use.
Vipers are known to be dangerous and, in many cases, lethal. Some species can transmit neurotoxic or hemotoxic venoms that can cause death if medical treatment is not received in time.
Other distinctive features of vipers include:
- Vertical pupils:Unlike snakes, vipers have vertical pupils, which gives them better vision in low light conditions.
- Veneno: They are 100% poisonous, and their fangs are specialized in injecting venom into their prey.
- Keeled scales: Vipers typically have scales with a small bump in the center, known as keeled scales.
Among the most dangerous vipers are the gaboon viper and viper, which can also be found in Spain.
Most important differences between snakes, vipers and snakes
Although snakes and vipers may appear similar at first glance, there are key differences in their morphology y poisonous.
Head and shapeVipers have a triangular head that is much wider than their neck, while the head of snakes is more rounded and uniform in size with the rest of the body. Snakes are also longer and thinner.
Veneno:All vipers are venomous, while most snakes are not. Even venomous snakes have less developed fangs and do not pose a significant danger to humans.
Furthermore, the scales provide another clue: vipers typically have zig-zag patterns on their dorsal scales, while garter snakes have a more uniform design.
How to differentiate vipers and snakes in nature?
In the wild, identifying whether a snake is a garter snake or a viper can be crucial in the event of an encounter. Here are some quick tips:
- Look at the eyes: If the snake has round pupils, it is most likely a garter snake. If they are vertical, it could be a viper.
- Look at the head: If it is triangular in shape, it is a viper. Snakes have softer, rounder heads.
- Behavior: Vipers are more likely to exhibit defensive behaviors, such as hissing or attack postures if they feel threatened.
Finally, do not attempt to handle or approach any snake in the wild without proper knowledge. In places where vipers are abundant, it is advisable to take precautions and consult an expert if in doubt.
This article aims to provide a clear and precise overview of these fascinating reptiles, helping you understand their differences and behaviors. Now that you know the differences between snakes, vipers, and snakes, you will be able to identify these reptiles with more certainty and understand that not all of them represent an immediate danger.