2010-11-23

Flying Snakes

How flying snakes glide from tree to tree by 'slithering' through the air | Mail Online



Scientists have discovered how a certain species of snake is able to ‘fly’ by appearing to slither while in the air.

Five related species of tree-dwelling snakes found in Southeast and South Asia are able to 'fly' by flinging themselves from their nest and gliding to a branch on another tree.

The discovery may one day have implications for new technology for military drones or aircraft as the latest research was sponsored by the US Defence Department.


YouTube - Gliding snake

Compilation of high-speed video's of flying snakes Chrysopelea paradisi


Collected from: YouTube - Gliding snake

YouTube - Flying Snakes Caught on Camera


Five related species of tree-dwelling snakes found in Southeast and South Asia may just be the worst nightmares of ophidiophobes (people who have abnormal fears of snakes). Not only are they snakes, but they can "fly"--flinging themselves off their perches, flattening their bodies, and gliding from tree to tree or to the ground.



When Snakes Fly : Discovery News

THE GIST
  • Video footage and a new mathematical model explain how five snake species achieve gliding flight.
  • The snakes stay in the air for up to 79 feet because the upward component of the aerodynamic force is greater than the snake's weight.
  • Future studies on the snakes and other animal gliders could lead to more energy-efficient flying vehicles.


Collected from: Flying Snake Home Page

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