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.
Snakes often seek out paved roads where they are attracted by the heat from the road surface.
Because snakes have a backbone, they are classified as vertebrates. Although fish, mammals, birds, and people are also vertebrates, the snake's skeletal system is unique. Snake bones are very light and the skeleton is very flexible. Snakes are specialized animals, with no legs, ears, or eyelids. Often the sex organs of a snake may protrude from the anal plate area and be confused with legs.