Viral photo shows an invisible camouflaged snake - how to know where they are hiding

Notoriously shy creatures can be quite difficult to spot in nature.


The vital role of snakes in the ecosystem is often overshadowed by their poorly informed reputation of dangerous or aggressive animals. Fortunately, Most species have not come , and these reptiles are also relatively timid by nature and go largely to stay out of sight. But although this trait can help protect humans and snakes from each other, their impressive ability to hide can also make them more difficult to avoid them. In fact, a viral photo shows how difficult it can be to spot a camouflaged snake apparently invisible in nature. Read the rest to see how sly the snakes can be.

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A recently published photo shows how difficult it can be to spot snakes in the wild.

Two side-by-side images of a snake hiding in grass
Ohio Department of Natural Resources / Facebook

Whether in your garden or you enjoy a hike, part of the security of the outside means being aware of your environment and noting any sign of danger. But in a recent Facebook post, the Ohio Natural Resources Ministry has shown first -hand how difficult it can be to make a snake When they are in nature .

The agency used two photos as an example. At first glance, the images seem to show fallen leaves and grass blades. But those who look closely can locate the reptile practically hiding in sight.

"If you have trouble finding the common garter in these photos, don't feel bad," wrote the agency. "The snake camouflage works!"

Snakes rely on this camouflage for protection and help catch prey.

Side-by-side images of a garter snake hiding in grass with circles pointing out its position
Ohio Department of Natural Resources / Facebook

Although the snake in the image has not come, it is clear - or perhaps, very not clear - that it takes an attentive eye to collect reptiles in their native habitat. According to experts, it has everything to do with the survival of animals and their position in the food chain.

"Snakes count on their camouflage to hide predators and prey," Roger Dickens , technical expert on the control of birds and fauna with EHRLICH pest control , recount Better life . "It is an evolutionary adaptation to help succeed in catching prey while avoiding the detection of predators, including our first ancestors, primates."

Dickens explains that apart from humans, most mammals have a binocular vision that allows them to see with both eyes in a small percentage of their overall vision range. Although it helps them to see a wider field of vision to protect them from predators, it also shows their world as a flat image with little or no perception of depth.

"The camouflage of a snake breaks their body outline and helps them hide on the" flat image "that a mouse sees," explains Dickens. "The lack of perception of depth allows them to put themselves at a hitting distance from their prey."

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There are several ways to improve your chances of spotting a snake hiding.

A prairie rattlesnake hiding under a stick
Istock / Mlharing

In addition to making sure you have your vision checked, you cannot do much to improve your view and your chances of spotting hidden snakes. But according to Dickens, human visual acuity is improved by movement, which means that it is easier to see a snake moving than the one that lies.

"In this case, the use of a long stick to disturb areas under the slaughtered trees or other objects - such as a heap of firewood - making a snake movement will considerably increase our chances of seeing it before to be bitten, "he suggests.

You can also count on other senses in addition to your view to stay safe. "Listen to for warning signs," said Georgina Ushi Phillips , DVM, a writer for The reptile room and a veterinarian based in Florida. "Snakes can whistle or shake the tail as a warning before hitting, so use your ears for any unusual sounds when you walk in snake -subject areas."

And even if you cannot always see from a distance, at least focus on your immediate vicinity can help you protect yourself.

"Always look where you walk," advises Phillips. "Be aware of your environment and avoid walking in high grass, rocky areas or areas with dense undergrowth where snakes can hide."

These basic pointers can also protect you from snakes if your eyes fail you.

man hiking in mountains
Thamkc / Shutterstock

Even the most alert outdoor fans and gardeners can sometimes ignore a snake among them. This is why experts say that following certain precautions can greatly help keep you safe. AE0FCC31AE342FD3A1346EBB1F342FCB

According to Phillips, wearing the right equipment can provide immediate protection in all unexpected close meetings. "Wear long pants, boots and shoes closed during hiking in areas subject to snakes to reduce the risk of snake bite," she suggests.

It may also be essential to be more alert at different periods of the day. "Snakes are more active early in the morning and the end of the afternoon, it is therefore preferable to avoid hiking during these periods in snake areas," said Phillips.

And if you really want to keep the advantage of sight, you may not want to venture too far from the beaten track or in dense vegetation in your courtyard. "Stay on designated trails and avoid bush bushes or explore the out -of -landing areas where snakes can hide," warns Phillips.


Categories: Smarter Living
Tags: animals / Safety
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