The more people learn about snakes, the less they will fear them. Many harmless snakes are needlessly killed each year, but, if the facts about snakes are better known, this problem can be reduced. Some people have such a dread of snakes they actually avoid going outdoors to fish, hunt, hike, or picnic because of the fear they may encounter a snake. As most people who spend a lot of time in the outdoors know, encounters with snakes are rather infrequent. 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.