9 SNAKES. 39 



No snake can, like the tree frog and the chameleon, 

 change its colors to suit its surroundings; but many, 

 during the summer time, frequent such places as 

 accord most closely with their own hues. In this 

 manner they not only lessen the chances of discovery 

 by their enemies, but also increase their opportunities 

 of obtaining food, as other animals, not perceiving 

 them, will approach within striking distance. Thus, 

 green snakes climb bushes and recline for hours on 

 the slender branches among the leaves, waiting for 

 insects and small birds to approach ; and several of 

 the smaller brown snakes remain for the most time 

 among the dead leaves and grass, about logs and the 

 roots of trees. 



A few species, as the common garter snake and the 

 spotted water snake, excrete a disgusting odor when 

 handled and this no doubt serves to protect them from 

 many enemies. Still others, when disturbed in their 

 dreams on a bright spring morning, feign death or 

 "play possum" as it is popularly put, remaining rigid 

 and motionless as long as one stays in their vicinity, 

 but seeking safety in flight as soon as they think 

 themselves unnoticed. The above are a few of the 

 many ways in which these reptiles seek to exercise 

 their natural right of defending themselves. No one 

 of the methods noticed is in the least degree harmful 

 to man, and even if so, it must be remembered that 

 whatever a non-venomous snake does is in self defense, 

 as it is never the attacking party. 



