phys.org

Researchers explain how snakes can crawl in a straight line

"It's been almost 70 years without that type of locomotion being well understood," Jayne said.

[mindblowingscience]

Snakes are known for their iconic S-shaped movements. But they have a less noticeable skill that gives them a unique superpower.

Snakes can crawl in a straight line.

University of Cincinnati biologist Bruce Jayne studied the mechanics of snake movement to understand exactly how they can propel themselves forward like a train through a tunnel.

“It’s a very good way to move in confined spaces,” Jayne said. “A lot of heavy-bodied snakes use this locomotion: vipers, boa constrictors, anacondas and pythons.”

His study titled “Crawling without Wiggling” was published in December in the Journal of Experimental Biology.

Continue Reading.