Book 32, Question 9
Why do snakes have wide belly scales?
A snake’s belly is covered with wide, overlapping plates called scutes.
Each plate’s edge can catch on bumps in the ground like a tiny hook. Muscles tilt the scutes so the edges push against the surface, and the snake moves forward. Belly scutes also protect the snake’s underside. Scientists can even count them to tell some kinds of snakes apart.
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Quick answers
Why do snakes have wide belly scales?
Grip is created by friction between the snake’s belly and the ground.
Source: Smithsonian
More fun facts
- Snakes are able to travel across surfaces when these powerful muscles work together at different parts along the snake’s body.
- Thanks to its finely tuned muscle control, the snake can generate a wave-like style of movement that appears fluid, powerful, and nearly effortless.
- Much like the serpentine movements, sidewinding relies on snakes twisting their bodies into rounded bends.
- One technique involves the snakes wrapping and gripping the trunk with their strong muscles.
Sources: Smithsonian
Questions kids ask
What are snake scales made of?
Snake scales are made of keratin, the same material that makes up hair and fingernails.
Source: Smithsonian