This Earth Day, It’s Time to Learn From Snakes

In my childhood in the Midwest, I briefly had an Eastern milk snake as a pet, with my parents’ reluctant approval. One day, the snake escaped from its terrarium in the garage and was found basking in a patch of sunlight seeking warmth it lacked in its enclosure. This behavior, typical of snakes, was beyond our understanding.

As we approach the 55th Earth Day celebration, memories of the milk snake resurface. Snakes, often disliked creatures, may be trying to communicate important messages about climate change, habitat destruction, and toxic environments. Embracing and listening to them could offer valuable insights.

Snakes, with around 4,000 different species worldwide, signify the importance of diversity for survival. Their ability to adapt to various environments, from arid deserts to coastal waters, showcases their remarkable versatility. Despite being cold-blooded, snakes swiftly adjust to temperature changes, a skill we can appreciate in today’s volatile climate.

Renowned Australian herpetologist Rick Shine highlights the astonishing adaptability of snakes and their remarkable biochemical adaptations. For instance, sea snakes in polluted waters have evolved skin pigments to combat toxins. Additionally, Burmese pythons in South Florida have shown genetic resilience to survive harsh conditions.

Snakes’ unique biology, such as regenerating organs and coping with limited food intake, offers valuable lessons for human health and survival. Despite our fear and aversion towards snakes, ancient cultures revered them as symbols of nature’s power and wisdom.

As we commemorate Earth Day and reflect on the Year of the Snake, let’s open our minds to the teachings of these ancient creatures. By studying snakes’ ability to thrive in challenging environments for millions of years, we may discover valuable strategies to navigate the current climate crisis.