As we step into the Year of the Snake this Lunar New Year, we are reminded of the captivating, mysterious, and often misunderstood creatures. Snakes have played an important role in cultures and mythologies worldwide, and here at Liberty Science Center, we’re lucky enough to host some incredible species. From the majestic emerald tree boa to the often-misunderstood timber rattlesnake, these serpents have a lot to teach us about the wonders of the natural world.

The Emerald Tree Boa: Nature’s Hanging Artist

One of our most awe-inspiring residents is the Emerald Tree Boa (Corallus caninus), a snake that seems to defy gravity. Native to South America, this brilliant green boa uses its prehensile tail to grasp and coil around branches, much like how a monkey would cling to a tree. With their long, sharp teeth—some of the longest of any nonvenomous snake—emerald tree boas are expert hunters. They primarily prey on small tree mammals and birds, utilizing their slow metabolism to go long stretches between meals.

The emerald tree boa’s unique ability to hang suspended in trees, its “convergent evolution” with the green tree python, and its striking appearance make it a perfect symbol of nature’s adaptability.

Green Tree Python: The Master of Stealth

Speaking of the green tree python (Morelia viridis), this snake might look similar to the emerald tree boa, but it’s not related. Their similar appearance and behaviors, such as using prehensile tails to climb and hunt, is an example of “convergent evolution”—a fascinating scientific concept where unrelated species evolve similar traits due to similar environmental pressures.

With its bright green coloring and graceful, coiled posture, the green tree python is a true master of stealth in the trees, often using its tail to lure prey closer before striking. These pythons also have more than 100 teeth, which they use to grip and hold onto their catch. Their tranquil, almost mesmerizing nature can remind us of the calm yet resilient spirit of the snake in Lunar New Year traditions.

Darwin Carpet Python: Ancient Survivors

The Darwin Carpet Python (Morelia spilota variegata), with its striking pattern of beige, brown, yellow, and black, brings an ancient touch to our collection. Unlike most snakes, pythons like the Darwin carpet python retain two small vestigial legs near their rear. It’s a curious evolutionary throwback to their reptilian ancestors.

This python is also quite the maternal figure: the female will bask in the sun to warm herself before returning to her nest to incubate her eggs. She even "shivers" to generate heat to keep her eggs warm, showing just how nurturing even a snake can be. The Darwin carpet python’s adaptability and longevity can be seen as a reflection of resilience—a perfect spirit for celebrating the new year.

Timber Rattlesnake: The Sound of Nature’s Warning

The Timber Rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus) might be one of the most iconic snakes in North America, especially with its signature rattle that serves as a warning to potential threats. Native to New Jersey, it is one of only two venomous species found in the state. But don’t let the rattle fool you—these snakes are more social than you might think! Timber rattlesnakes often overwinter in dens with their relatives, and juveniles will follow their mother’s scent trail to find shelter.

Additionally, researchers are investigating the potential medical benefits of rattlesnake venom. For example, the venom of a related South American rattlesnake shows promise as an anti-cancer agent and as a painkiller that is 500 times stronger than morphine.

Corn Snake: A Colorful Protector

Although smaller than the other snakes at Liberty Science Center, the Corn Snake (Pantherophis guttata) is a key player in the ecosystem. Non-venomous and beautifully patterned with orange and brown hues, these snakes help maintain the balance of local rodent populations. By constricting their prey, they help reduce the number of pests, benefiting both agriculture and human health.

Their role in controlling pests and their captivating beauty make them an essential part of the ecosystem. Sadly, a reminder of the delicate balance between nature and human development, the corn snake is considered endangered in New Jersey due to habitat loss.

The Year of the Snake is meant to be a year of adaptability and renewal. Much like a snake sheds its skin, 2025 marks a year when individuals and communities can let go of old patterns and embrace innovation.

This Lunar New Year, as we celebrate the Year of the Snake, let’s take a moment to appreciate the fascinating qualities these creatures bring to the world. Whether it's their ability to blend into their environment, their ancient survival tactics, or their critical role in maintaining ecological balance, snakes are more than just myth and legend—they are marvels of the natural world. So come celebrate with us at Liberty Science Center, where these magnificent reptiles are ready to show you the science behind their slithering success!