Snake s eyes are closed all the time rather than having movable eyelids they have a clear layer of skin over their eye which protects the eye and allows them to see out through their always closed eyelids

Snake’s eyes are closed all the time

Snakes are fascinating creatures that have evolved unique characteristics to adapt to their environment. One of these remarkable features is their closed eyes. While it may seem strange to us, snakes do not have movable eyelids like humans or other animals. Instead, they have a clear layer of skin over their eyes, which serves multiple purposes. This layer of skin acts as a protective shield for their eyes and also enables them to see through their always-closed eyelids.

Snakes do not possess the ability to blink or close their eyes entirely. This is because their eyelids are fused shut, and they lack the muscles that control eyelid movement. As a result, their eyes remain permanently closed, but this does not hinder their vision at all.

To compensate for their inability to blink, snakes have a transparent scale called a spectacle or brille over each eye. This spectacle is made of a specialized type of skin that is clear and allows light to pass through, enabling the snake to see its surroundings. This mechanism is comparable to wearing a pair of goggles that provide protection while still allowing vision.

The spectacle not only protects the snake’s eyes from debris and potential injury but also helps in retaining moisture. As snakes live in a variety of habitats, such as deserts or humid rainforests, retaining moisture is crucial for their survival. The spectacle acts as a barrier, reducing evaporation from the eye and preventing dryness.

It is important to note that the spectacle is shed periodically, just like the rest of the snake’s skin. During this process, the old spectacle is sloughed off, and a new one grows in its place. This ensures that the snake’s vision remains unobstructed and its eyes stay protected.

So how exactly do snakes see if their eyes are closed all the time? Well, snakes possess a highly specialized vision system called “flicker-fusion.” Flicker-fusion allows snakes to see moving objects and perceive changes in their surroundings even with their always-closed eyelids. This unique adaptation enables them to hunt, navigate, and detect potential threats effectively.

In conclusion, snakes have a fascinating adaptation where their eyes are closed permanently. Instead of having movable eyelids, they have a clear layer of skin over their eyes, known as the spectacle. This protective layer allows them to see through their closed eyelids while shielding their eyes from harm. Snakes have evolved this remarkable mechanism to thrive in various environments, showcasing the incredible diversity of the animal kingdom.

Source: Snakes Are Long Blog