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.
Snakes move by pushing against objects with specialized scales on their bellies called scutes.
The scutes act like tire treads, gripping the ground and giving the snake the traction necessary to push itself forward. Also, scutes are hard and protect the snake as it moves along rough surfaces. The scales covering the body prevent excessive dehydration by retaining body moisture and contain pigments that form the color patterns of snakes. Snakes have no moveable eyelids, and therefore can never blink or close their eyes. A single transparent scale covers the eye.