Can Snakes See In The Dark?
Snakes have a reputation for being sightless, nocturnal creatures, but can they actually see, even in the dark? The truth is, it all depends on the type of snake.
Snakes That See In The Dark
- Pit Vipers: Pit Vipers such as rattlesnakes and copperheads have a special “heat-sensing” organ that helps them find prey in the dark. This organ uses infrared radiation to detect the heat being given off by the prey, allowing them to hunt even in the dark.
- Cobras: Cobras have two light-sensing organs called parietal eyes. These organs are sensitive to light and dark, and can help cobras detect movement in the dark.
Snakes That Can’t See In The Dark
- Constrictors: Many species of constrictors such as boas and pythons cannot see in the dark, and rely on their sense of smell to find prey.
- Sea Snakes: Sea snakes are believed to have very poor eyesight, and rely more on their sense of smell and touch to find their prey.
In conclusion, different types of snakes have different abilities when it comes to seeing in the dark. Some can see in the dark, while others rely more on their other senses to hunt.
