Colubridae

Colubridae is a large, diverse family of snakes found on every continent except Antarctica. It includes rat snakes, kingsnakes, and many other familiar species, though its classification has changed as molecular evidence has reshaped snake taxonomy.

Snake: A limbless, elongated reptile in the suborder Serpentes. Colubridae is one family within the wider snake lineage.
Corn snake: A North American rat snake known for its orange coloration and suitability for captive care. It is a familiar colubrid species often kept as a pet.
Viperidae: A family of venomous snakes with long, hinged front fangs. Vipers contrast with the generally less specialized venom-delivery systems found among colubrids.
Snake venom: A complex secretion produced by some snakes to subdue prey or deter threats. Venom occurs in some colubrids, complicating the outdated idea that the family is uniformly harmless.
Snake scale: A keratinized plate covering a snake’s skin. Scale patterns and counts help distinguish colubrid species.
Common kingsnake: A North American constrictor that preys on snakes, including venomous species. Its snake-eating behavior illustrates one striking colubrid feeding strategy.
Elapidae: A family of venomous snakes with fixed front fangs, including cobras and mambas. Elapids provide a clear comparison with colubrids in fang position and venom delivery.
Snakebite: An injury caused when a snake’s teeth penetrate skin, sometimes delivering venom. Some colubrids can inflict medically significant bites despite lacking the typical viper or elapid fang system.
Snake dentition: The arrangement and form of teeth in a snake’s jaws. Differences in rear teeth helped shape traditional descriptions of many colubrids.
Common garter snake: A widespread North American snake that feeds on prey such as worms, amphibians, and fish. Its broad range and varied diet exemplify familiar colubrids.

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