How Snakes Work

Anyone can look at a snake and see a creature unique unto itself, a reptile with a set of zoological and biological traits that are entirely its own. Just looking at this distinct animal raises many scientific questions. With regard to evolution, how did such an animal come to be? How does a snake move, and how do its sense organs differ from that of other reptiles? How does it eat, and how does it reproduce? Essentially, how does a snake "work"? In How Snakes Work: The Structure, Function and Behavior of the World's Snakes, leading zoologist Harvey B. Lillywhite has written the definitive scientific guide to the functional biology of snakes. Written for both herpetologists and a more general audience with an interest in the field, How Snakes Work features nearly two hundred color images of various species of snakes, used to provide visual examples of biological features explained in the text. Chapter topics include the evolutionary history of the snake, feeding, locomotion, the structure and function of skin, circulation and respiration, sense organs, sound production, and reproduction. Containing all the latest research and advances in our biological knowledge of the snake, How Snakes Work is an indispensable asset to professional zoologists and enthusiasts alike. "This book brings together a lifetime of experience, to explain in easy-to-understand terms what snakes do, and how and why they do it. I am sure that this attractive volume not only will educate people about snakes, but also will inspire its readers and help them to understand why we need to conserve these amazing creatures for future generations." --Rick Shine, University of Sydney"Of the many books on snakes for a general readership, this one is unique in its focus on the physiological ecology of these fascinating creatures. The author's extensive experiences in the field and laboratory shine through, as he offers insights into how snakes function in their natural environment. For anyone wondering how snakes breathe, swim, perceive their prey, or pump their blood, this book has the answers, while posing important questions that have yet to be studied. Detailed information fills every page, interspersed with compelling photos and tales from the author's many encounters with serpents in the wild." --Alan H. Savitzky, Utah State University, Logan"This expertly written book combines the authority of a thoroughly researched scientific treatise, with the illustrative quality and popular appeal of a coffee-table book. It is an informative and pleasurable read." --1. Harold Heatwole, North Carolina State University, RaleighTable of Contents ; Chapter 1: Evolutionary History and Classification of the World's Snakes ; Chapter 2: Feeding, Digestion and Water Balance ; Chapter 3: Locomotion: How Snakes Move ; Chapter 4: Temperature and Ectothermy ; Chapter 5: Structure and Function of Skin ; Chapter 6: Internal Transport: Circulation and Respiration ; Chapter 7: Perceiving the Snake's World: Structure and Function of Sense Organs ; Chapter 8: Sound Production ; Chapter 9: Courtship and Reproduction ; Glossary of Terms