The flea snakes are small; they are unique snakes that are of great interest preferably to both snake lovers and research practitioners. The beings are small and due to their conduct in life, they are extraordinary among reptiles. Now let’s take a closer look at flea snakes, the secrets of their life, and what their diet is. If you own one we will also highlight some of the things you should do to take care of your flea snake. Read on to find out what you want to know about these fascinating snakes!
What Is a Flea Snake?
The flea snake or Ahaetulla fasciolata is a slim, small worm-like snake that is swift in its movement due to its small size. These snakes are not poisonous at all and therefore are harmless when they come into contact with human beings. These interesting animals are called flea snakes and they deserve to be mentioned because they are rather helpful in their environment.
Where Are Flea Snakes Found?
This snake belongs to Southeast Asia and can commonly be found especially in homes infested with fleas. Having listed its subtypes, the following can be known about them: They can be found in countries like Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. These snakes prefer regions that have ample supply of moisture especially if it is located in regions with forests. Tree living ‘specialist’ species include the flea snake, which is a skilled climber. They are small and secretive which enables them to avoid their attackers.
Physical Characteristics of Flea Snakes
Flea snakes are relatively smaller in size as compared to other snakes. They may develop to have a length of approximately 20 to 40 centimeters. They are lean, and muscular and therefore can easily run through the grass and bushes. Like any snake, flea snakes are reptiles that are of brown or greenish coloration to blend with the environment. This is because of their speed and agility hence it will be hard for a predator to catch them.
Diet of Flea Snakes
Flea snakes are mostly noted to feed mainly on fleas as well as other small insects and larvae. They are insectivores, which means that they feed mainly on insects. Flea snakes go out in search of their prey in their natural environment without compromising their visibility and speed. Some of the insects they commonly eat include:
Some of the insects they commonly eat include:
- Ants
- Beetles
- Fleas (hence the name)
- Termites
- Small spiders
They rely on these plants to feed on them thus effectively suppressing insect fauna in areas they inhabit.
Behavior and Lifestyle
Flea snakes, as their name suggests, are usually active at night, or in other words are nocturnal. At night they usually will lie under a leaf or in any other small hole so that no predator comes to get them. These snakes do not pose any threat to human beings because they are very anti-social and avoid human beings. As the name implies, flea snakes are fast-running and have relatively thin bodies to allow them to make a quick escape.
Is It Safe to Keep a Flea Snake as a Pet?
There is an interest in keeping the flea snake as a pet, and many want to know more about these animals. Though they are not exactly popular as domestic animals, it can be done. If you are considering getting one, there are a few things you need to know: If you are considering getting one, there are a few things you need to know:
- Space:
Flea snake’s relatively small size means they do not require too much room and can be contained in a fairly small area. Usually, a terrarium of 10-15 gallons is enough depending on the number of insects and their activity.
- Temperature and Humidity:
As with most other reptiles, flea snakes have to be housed in a warm and humid environment. The best temperature ranges from 2540°C to 2930°C, and the ratio of humidity should be 60-70%.
- Diet:
The flea snake diet requires that you feed them with live insects at some point hence the name flea snake. Crickets and ants are okay and small beetles should also be given in this category but in normal proportions.
- Care Level:
Flea snakes are convenient animals to have as pets. But they are fragile because of the small size of these animals and should not be handled frequently so as not to stress or hurt them.
There are certain care requirements that if provided, a flea snake can do well in captivity.
Flea Snake vs. Other Small Snakes
Although there are many other small species of snakes one would think are flea snakes but are not. Some of these include:
- Ringneck Snake:
The other bird is fairly similar in size to the first bird but has a bright orange ring around its neck.
- Thread Snake:
Small and can easily be confused with worms as they are small in size and have a worm-like coloration.
- Smooth Green Snake:
Usually, it is found in a bright green color, and being a tiny snake it is not very active during the day, unlike flea snakes.
How Flea Snakes Contribute to Their Ecosystem
It’s important to note that flea snakes are of enormous benefit in regulating insect infestation. Informers considering they feed on different kinds of insects assist in the regulation of these numbers and therefore balance the ecosystems. Similar to other small kinds of reptiles, flea snakes also fall prey to large animals. Flea snakes are essential for rodent control since birds, mammals, and large snakes feed on them.
Common Myths About Flea Snakes
Nevertheless, flea snakes are quite mild in judgment although they are sometimes not well received. Let’s clear up some common myths: Let’s clear up some common myths:
Myth 1 – Flea Snakes bring Diseases.
Fact: Flea snakes are gory snakes that do not have or transmit diseases dangerous to human beings.
Myth 2: Flea snakes can infest homes like fleas.
Fact: Despite their size and their high speed of movement, flea snakes are not fleas. These include insects that do not intrude into homes or cause any kind of infestation.
Myth 3: All small snakes are dangerous.
Fact: Most of the small snakes, such as the flea snakes are constrictors or are non-violent snakes that do not bite.
Flea Snakes in Popular Culture
Nonetheless, flea snakes have been mentioned in some local folklore although they are not possibly as popular as some other snakes. These snakes in particular are called storytelling snakes in some cultures within Southeast Asia and these are associated with speed. That way they have been related beacons of swiftness and intelligence.
Protecting Flea Snake Habitats
Like with many reptiles the flea snake habitats are threatened by deforestation and occupation by human beings. Habitat conservation particularly of rainforests and other natural ecosystems is very important in the survival of flea snakes. Measures needed to preserve these territories could hence be used to conserve the flea snakes and the balance of the ecosystems within which they live.
Another interesting snake
Referring to the African house snakes one should mention the species existing in Zambia which is rather individual and beautiful. The pure Zambian green African house snake is a perfect example this snake is green and its nature is very friendly. While these snakes present as spectacular viewing these are among the best species of snakes deemed suitable for petting because of their relatively small size and low maintenance needs. For more details about this interesting species, you can read this guide on the pure Zambian green African house snake.
Conclusion
Flea snakes despite being small in size, are said to be of great importance within their different habitats. They maintain the populations of insects and also are the source of food for other large animals. These snakes can also be kept as pets and need a lot of care. All the above information would imply that if you are planning to flea snake in house aquarium you should be prepared for its perishingly sensitive nature.
They are tiny and delicate creatures that are special, they must be respected even though they live in the wild or captivity. And, therefore, acquaintance with the role of flea snakes in the organization of interaction between species will help eliminate the destruction of habitats. As for snake lovers or lovers of fauna in general, flea snakes are an interesting object of research.
