Why do snakes have forked tongues? The surprising science behind this unique feature

One of the most peculiar characteristics of snakes is the forked tongue. Humans have been wondering for centuries why these reptiles constantly protrude their tongue and take it back inside their mouths. However, there is a common misconception that the tongue is involved either in biting or tasting food. As scientists have revealed, the role of the tongue is quite a complicated matter because of the numerous abilities of this part of the body. Here are five amazing facts regarding the evolution of this snake feature.

In comparison to humans, snakes do not depend on sight. They receive all necessary information by means of chemical compounds found in their surrounding environment. Every time snakes flick their tongue, numerous particles stick to its surface. Afterwards, these particles are transferred to the mouth for further analysis. Hence, it might be noted that the tongue serves as a very special sensor that allows snakes to get detailed information from the environment, which is invisible to their eyes.

For the forked tongue to be helpful, the snake must possess one more peculiar structure, the Jacobson's organ. It is also referred to as the vomeronasal organ. This particular part of the body is located in the roof of a snake's mouth and analyses the particles brought there by the tongue. Therefore, scientists argue that it resembles a sophisticated chemical laboratory, enabling snakes to understand everything going on around.

As already mentioned, the forked tongue of a snake does not exist just for decorative purposes. There is something very useful about it. Since a tongue has two tips, it perceives scent particles from various spots. According to researchers, it helps to determine the direction of the source of a smell. Hence, snakes' tongues operate similarly to human ears, detecting where the sound comes from.

Finding prey and evading any possible dangers is crucial for the survival of any animal. Snakes do not make exceptions. They constantly keep in touch with their environment by means of their tongues. The latter helps to detect even the slightest change occurring in the chemical compound of air and ground. As a result, snakes can track prey and avoid threats regardless of poor lighting conditions or being underground.

While the mating season starts, chemical compounds become very helpful as well. Many snakes produce pheromones that indicate the species, gender, and reproductive condition of the animal. As a result, thanks to the forked tongue and the Jacobson's organ, snakes may easily find suitable partners for mating.