Why is snake's tongue forked? Why is it always flicking out - Snake Senses

Type: Interesting

Description:
Snakes have no external ears, not really great vision and do not smell much through their nose. So how do they maneuver and find prey? And why is their tongue forked? In this video these and more questions will be answered. While the tongue does not have sensory cells on its surface, it serves to collect molecules in the air or on surfaces. The tongue will flick out then be pulled back into mouth where tips are inserted into holes or pits in the upper part of the mouth. These pits are openings to the vomeronasal organ or Jacobson's Organ. Here the sensory cells reacted to molecules and messages are sent to the brain. Pheromones, chemical messages within the species with info on territories, sex, and mating readiness are communicated. The snakes can also follow scent trails left by prey.

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Video length: 08:00