Out in the desert, most folks listen for the rattle-rattle warning of a rattlesnake. But did you know many other snakes are sharing the sand and rocks?
One day, a little Gopher Snake slithered by a farmer’s field. “Don’t worry,” it said, “I don’t bite like a rattler. I eat the mice sneaking into your grain.” And with that, it slipped into a hole and came out with a squeaking snack.
“Eeep, eeep, eep,” the vulnerable little mouse cried as it was manipulated headfirst into the snake’s mouth. Its cries muffled as the swallowing began. I have heard it said that going with the nap of the fur aids more efficient digestion.
A shiny Kingsnake stretched out in the sun. “Guess what I like to eat?” it grinned. “Other snakes—even rattlesnakes! Their venom doesn’t bother me one bit.” The rattler kept its distance.
Old Kingsnake had plenty of holes in his head and along his body to prove that he was immune to the rattlesnake bites.
Meanwhile, a Coachwhip zipped across the desert floor, faster than a kid on a bike, chasing lizards like a ribbon in the wind. And deep in the rocks, a Rosy Boa curled up, soft and calm, looking more like a coiled rope than a wild snake.
Every snake has its place, and while rattlesnakes warn with a rattle, the others work quietly to keep the desert in balance. So remember: not all snakes are scary—some are helpers too.