While snakes will not eliminate pests, they do help keep their numbers in check. Although you wouldn't want a poisonous snake around your home, snake venom can be beneficial and has been used in developing a variety of human medicines. One type of high blood pressure medicine was developed using information based on chemicals in snake venom. Researchers are conducting studies using snake poisons to develop treatments for blood and heart problems. Snake venom is also being investigated for controlling some types of harmful bacteria.
Some snakes are quite rare and are protected species.
These rare snakes are on state and federal endangered and threatened species lists. Snake Biology Snakes are ectotherms, meaning they regulate their body temperature by absorbing or giving off heat. During these periods of inactivity, snakes may go for several weeks without eating. Because they are cold-blooded, snakes must rely on their behavior to regulate their body temperature. During the hot part of the day, snakes move to shaded areas, and on cool days they sun themselves in warm open areas.