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Book 32, Question 65 · Video

How do snakes swim?

Video · 1:44 · Crafty Clover explains, from A Million Whys Book 32

Many snakes are great swimmers. A snake pushes against the water with S-shaped waves that travel down its body. A water snake’s lungs can hold air, and that helps it float. Most swimming snakes keep their heads above water. If you see a snake swimming, give it plenty of space and stay on the shore.

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What Crafty Clover says in this video

Intro

Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. How do snakes swim?

The Big Idea

Snakes in the water? Yes, many snakes swim! How do they do it?

S-Shaped Waves

Step one: S-Shaped Waves. A snake pushes against the water with S-shaped waves that travel down its body. The waves push the water back, and the snake moves forward.

Floating

Step two: Floating. A water snake's lungs can hold air, and that helps it float. Most swimming snakes keep their heads above water.

Give Them Space

Step three: Give Them Space. Many snakes that live on land can swim too. If you see a snake swimming, give it plenty of space and stay on the shore.

A Closer Look

Let's take a closer look! Push water. Hold air. Above water. Stay there.

Quick Facts

Quick facts! Many snakes that live on land can swim too. Air in their lungs helps them float. S-waves push water back. Watch swimming snakes from shore.

Think Like a Scientist

Now, think like a scientist! Pour a little water into a shallow pan. Lay a long piece of yarn in it. Wiggle one end. See how the S-waves push the water back. That's how a snake swims!

Outro

Snakes swim by sending S-shaped waves down their bodies to push the water back. Air in their lungs helps them float, and most keep their heads up. If you see a swimming snake, give it space and stay on shore. Science is amazing! Keep asking questions! The more you look around, the more wonders you will find, so keep your eyes open! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!

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