A snake is a reptile that is covered in scales. Almost all snakes are carnivorous and their distinguishing features are their lack of eyelids, limbs and external ears. There are about 2,700 species of snakes. Although it would be quite impossible to mention each of those species here, but read on to find out about some of the important species and varieties of snakes.

 

 

Elapids - These are found in the sub tropical and tropical regions around the world. They have hollow fangs which they use to inject venom in their victim. Their size can range from 18 centimetres to more than 6 metres. In total, there are about 231 species in this family of snakes. Some of the famous examples of Elapids are the following:

 

Viperidae - The Viperidae, or the vipers as they are more commonly known are found all over the world except in Madagascar and Australia. Their fangs are comparatively quite long and hinged. With the help of their long fangs, the vipers inject venom into their victims. In the Viperidae family, there are about four sub-species, namely, the Azemiopinae, Vipermae, Crotalinae and the Causinae. Some common examples of this species of snakes are the following:

 

Colubridae - The snakes belonging to the Colubridae family are harmless and non-poisonous. However, there are certain species even in this family, like the Boomslang and the African Twig which have been responsible for human deaths. Their fangs are located at the back of their mouths. Some of the common examples of this species are the following:

 

Hydrophidae - These are sea or aquatic snakes that are distantly related to the cobra family of snakes. They are about two metres in length and about 50 species of these snakes are there in the world. Almost all the snakes of this family are highly venomous. These snakes have short and hollow fangs that is located near the front and upper jaw. Some of the common examples of this species are the following: