Physics explains how snakes climb and stand without limbs

A long, wiry scrub python slithers up a tree. As it moves between branches, the snake lifts itself upright to climb higher. But how? With no arms and legs to hold itself up, why doesn’t it topple over? The secret lies in its special S-like body shape, new analyses show. 

Tree-climbing snakes don’t stiffen their entire bodies to stand upright. They focus their bending energy and muscle activity on a small area near their base. This helps snakes “stand” while using as little energy as possible.

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