All different kinds of animals, ourselves included, have different adaptations to cope with dangerous situations – this snake species gets better vision when there’s a looming threat. Generally, snakes have very poor vision and rely more on their sense of smell, but when the tough gets going, a clear pair of eyes can become the difference between life or death. The coachwhip snake (Masticophis flagellum) can control the blood flow to its eyes, providing a clearer view in moments of threat. Let’s take a more in-depth look at this interesting and unusual adaptation for survival.
Have You Ever Heard of the Coachwhip Snake?
The star of this study and fascinating revelation is the coachwhip snake. It is a slender, nonvenomous species found across the United States and Mexico. Typically brown to pink, this snake can grow up to 8 feet long. Although it usually relies on other senses due to poor eyesight, researchers have discovered an incredible way this snake compensates for its limited vision.
Where in the U.S. Can You Find the Coachwhip Snake?
You’re most likely to encounter this special snake species if you live in the southern and western regions of the United States. They inhabit a variety of environments, from open grasslands and deserts to shrublands and forests. States like Texas, Arizona, and Florida are known for their coachwhip populations, seeing as the species loves hot and dry conditions.
How Snakes “See” Without Eyelids
Snakes, including the coachwhip, have a unique feature called a spectacle. This transparent scale covers the eye and serves as a protective layer. Unlike mammals with eyelids, snakes rely on this spectacle to protect their eyes from dirt and debris, all while allowing them to see their surroundings. Not having eyelids also leads to another thing – snakes cannot blink!
Blood Flow Improves Eyesight in Dangerous Situations
Kevin van Doorn, a researcher at the University of Waterloo, uncovered that the spectacle of the coachwhip snake is full of blood vessels. Further, it was discovered that when the snake is relaxed, these blood vessels regularly expand and contract. This prevents blood cells from obstructing their already limited vision. However, this rhythm changes when the snake perceives danger.
Vision Boost in Threatening Situations
When faced with a threat, such as a human approaching, coachwhip snakes can constrict the blood vessels in their spectacles for several minutes. This action reduces blood flow, allowing for a clearer view in high-stakes moments. This adaptability helps them better assess and respond to potential threats, whether by defending themselves or escaping. Imagine if we could improve our vision in the blink of an eye (quite literally, too.)
Different Snake Species Means Different Types of Visions
Interestingly, not all snakes have the same type of vision. Research into various snake species reveals that those active during the day have lenses that block ultraviolet (UV) light, aiding in clear vision under bright conditions. Conversely, night-hunting snakes have lenses that allow more UV light, enhancing vision in low light.
How Snake Eyes Evolved for Diverse Habitats
Snakes’ visual pigments, sensitive to specific light wavelengths, have evolved to match their diverse lifestyles. Most snakes are dichromatic, meaning they see two primary colors. While some species can detect UV light, others, like the golden tree snake and vine snake, have lenses that block it. What they all have in common though, is that they have evolved into a certain type of way depending on their environment, their preferred snack and hunting method – amongst other deciding factors.
Where Does This Discovery Leave Us?
While the coachwhip snake’s vision-boosting mechanism is remarkable, it raises questions about whether other snake species possess similar abilities. Future research may reveal if this trait is unique to the coachwhip or if it extends to other species, shedding further light on the complexities of snake vision.
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