"This isn't flying, it's falling with style"

      It is remarkable to think about being able to fly, well what about the ability to glide? Gliding has evolved in some species that live in arboreal environments, especially those of the tropics. Here there are several different animals that have the ability to glide. These animals that are able to glide include certain mammals, amphibians, reptiles, and insects. The animal that sticks out the most and that peaked my interest are the snakes that are referred to as flying snakes. These flying snakes belong to the family colubridae and to the genus chrysopelea. They are found primarily in the jungles of south and southeastern asia. The snakes grow to an average length of about four feet and are mildly venomous. Although they are mildly venomous they are not that dangerous to humans because the venom has no detrimental effects to humans. The smallest of these flying snakes have been recorded to glide to a distance of about 330 ft in the air. This is an incredible feat in itself, but how do these snakes accomplish this? Well the answer is, the snake while in a tree will jump off of a branch by creating a j-shape with its body. Once the snake is in the air, it flattens its body in the same manner that a cobra would open its hood. In order for this to happen the ribs of the snake are, I guess you could say, extended outward towards the head, stretching the skin out. The snakes become so thin that you can see the heart while the snake in this gliding state. With the S-shape of the snake and the way the snake positions its body while gliding, it creates lift similar to an airplane's wing. Keep in mind that these reptiles do not fly though they just fall with style. They are said to be better gliders than the flying squirrels (National Geographic). I think that this is absolutely interesting and I am glad that I came across these snakes while doing a presentations class. Also if you get the chance and would like to watch a video on these snakes check out this National Geographic video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UczKUylZDv8

 http://animals.nationalgeographic.com/animals/reptiles/flying-snake/
http://www.naturia.per.sg/buloh/verts/flying_tree_snake.htm
http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2010/11/101124-flying-snakes-fly-science-darpa-dod-socha/