Why Do Snakes Shed Their Skin? Wonderopolis Wonder of the Day #1

Why do snakes shed their skin?

• To fly

• To become invisible

• To change color

• To grow and remove parasites

What is the scientific term for skin shedding in snakes?

• Cracking

• Flaking

• Ecdysis

• Peeling

How often do young snakes shed their skin?

• Once a month

• Every day

• Once a year

• Every two weeks

What do snakes do to help shed their skin?

• Sing a song

• Jump up and down

• Rub against a rock

• Dance in circles

What happens to the old skin after a snake sheds?

• It becomes a new snake

• It turns into dust

• It melts away

• It is left behind as a shell

How many times a year do average snakes shed their skin?

• Ten times

• Once

• Two to four times

• Every month

What might snakes do to loosen their old skin?

• Climb a tree

• Roll in the mud

• Bask in the sun

• Go for a swim

What is the first step snakes take to shed their skin?

• Sleep for a long time

• Eat a big meal

• Create a rip in the old skin

• Find a new home

What is left behind after a snake sheds its skin?

• A trail of slime

• A puddle of water

• A pile of scales

• A snake-shaped shell

What is one reason snakes shed their skin?

• To make friends

• To grow wings

• To change their diet

• To remove parasites