Providing those who fear snakes with correct information on the kinds, natural history and distribution of Missouri's snakes may reduce their fears so they can begin to enjoy our beautiful outdoors year 'round. Snakes are reptiles-a group which also includes lizards, crocodiles and turtles. Reptiles in general are covered with scales, are the same temperature as their surroundings and have been around for billions of years. Snakes and lizards are closely related. Snakes are Iegless, have no external ear opening and are not sIimy .
All snakes can swim.
The internal organs of snakes are elongated, which allows them to fit into the tubular body cavity. Most species have an elongated right lung and no left lung. All snakes eat other animals and are classified as carnivorous. Kingsnakes eat mice, lizards and other species of snakes. They are immune to the venom of our venomous snakes and will kill and consume them if given the opportunity.