Snake
Japanese Name:
蛇
Romaji Name:
hebi
Description
↓↓
The snake is a legless reptile belonging to the suborder Serpentes. Snakes are found all over the world, except for Antarctica, Iceland, Ireland, and New Zealand. There are over 3,000 species of snakes, ranging from tiny, harmless species to large, venomous ones.
History
↓↓
Snakes are legless reptiles found worldwide, with fossil records dating back over 100 million years.
Humans have observed snakes since ancient times, incorporating them into mythology, religion, and medicine.
In Japan, snakes (hebi) have been symbols of protection, fertility, and sometimes danger in folklore and Shinto traditions.
Scientific classification and study of snakes developed during the 18th and 19th centuries, focusing on anatomy, venom, and behavior.
Snakes have been used in traditional medicine, cultural rituals, and as pets in various societies.
Today, snakes are studied for ecological, medical, and conservation purposes, while continuing to feature in cultural symbolism worldwide.