Why do snakes have forked tongues for kids

First, not all snakes are venomous, and those that are release their venom through their teeth or fangs. Once a venomous snake has bitten its prey and released its venom into the animal's bloodstream, it can then track the stricken animal using the receptors on its tongue, consuming its meal when the animal finally succumbs to the poison. On the second misconception, a snake's tongue is as delicate and soft as any animal's tongue; it is neither able to hold poison, nor is it rigid and sharp.

In fact, the tongue is of such critical importance to the snake that this is clearly why it evolved to have a tongue sheath to protect this appendage from accidental injury. Otherwise, it is believed that the taste buds in a snake's tongue are somewhat minimal, at least compared to ours. It is probable that the actual taste receptors are just enough to tell the snake whether the food is good, or whether it may be noxious. Still, don't feel too sorry for the snake just because it can't properly enjoy the taste of its dinner.

Remember that what its tongue lacks in some ways, it makes up for in other ways. Try this: Stick your tongue out and try to figure out which way to go for dinner, or where to find your next date. Maybe then you'll have a little more appreciation for the lowly snake. Written by: PetMD Editorial. Published: August 27, The "Smelling" Tongue When a snake's tongue is flicked out into the air, receptors on the tongue pick up minuscule chemical particles, which are perceived as scent.

Why are snakes' tongues forked? See Also:. Help us make PetMD better Was this article helpful? Yes No. Share this article. This ball python shows off its forked tongue as it checks out the camera lens.

While snakes and reptiles flick this chemical stimulus into their mouth, most all mammals have a vomeronasal organ that assists the animals in detecting minute chemical scents. In cats the organ is stimulated when the cat exhibits the Flehmen reaction, sort of a sneer or curling of their lips.

Some studies suggest that humans might use this organ to detect pheromones from other people, potential mates or potential bad dates, but less is known about its function in humans. This function could be the answer to some behavioral preferences in people, but very little is known about its usefulness. Next time you visit the zoo, stop by the Day Exhibit and take a close look at the snakes.

Although snakes have nostrils, they also use their tongues to pick up the scent of nearby prey or predators. When a snake flicks its tongue, it collects odors that are present in miniscule moisture particles floating through the air.

The snake darts the tongue into its Jacobson's organ, which is located inside the roof of the snake's mouth. The prongs of the forked tongue fit perfectly into the two holes in the Jacobson's organ, which is also known as the vomeronasal organ.