Often misunderstood, they are an integral part of many natural habitats. Knowing more about them can help us enjoy the outdoors and appreciate the many different kinds of wildlife that surround us. This publication is intended to help people identify the snakes of Indiana, increase the awareness of snake conservation and biology, and correct many misconceptions about snakes. As a group, reptiles share many common characteristics. All reptiles have scales.
Reptiles have a body temperature that is the same as their surroundings.
They regulate their body temperature by basking in the sun when cold, or seeking shade and reducing activity when warm. Therefore, ambient temperature influences the daily activities of all snakes. For example, snakes tend to be more active during the middle of the day in the spring and fall when evenings are cool, and more active in the morning and evening during the hot summer months. Snakes lack legs, unlike most other reptiles. However, boas have tiny spurs that are remnants of hind limbs, and a few other reptiles, such as worm and glass lizards, also lack limbs.