The slithering reptiles known to strike fear into the hearts of many humans are actually incredibly unique in their range of movement. Snakes can move in a variety of surprising ways - each a complete motion that aids the snake to escape predators, move across complicated surfaces or in un-ideal conditions, or sneak up on prey.
The first movement, called the Serpentine movement, is the s-shaped wriggle that most people identify with snakes. In this motion, snakes use nearby objects and textures to push off parts of their bodies in alternating directions, moving in a waving motion. This movement, however, is not effective over smooth surfaces where there is no opportunity to create friction.
The second movement, called the Concertina method, is most effective in tight corners and small spaces, when the snake doesn't have room to stretch the length of its body. This method is reminiscent of an earthworms plugging away: the snake braces the back half of its body and stretches forward one half of its body at a time.
A third way snakes move is a motion referred to as Sidewinding. Sidewinding is useful for snakes crossing smooth, loose, or slippery surfaces. The snake appears to jump sideways, throwing its head first and then catching up with the rest of the body. This motion leaves a peculiar (and quite beautiful) pattern of s-shaped imprints on the surface being crossed by the snake.
Snakes are also able to move in a straight line (called rectilinear motion) quite quickly by alternately raising and planting larger scales along their bellies to pull the body forward. This type of movement is more common with larger snakes like boa constrictors, vipers, and pythons. For more detailed information on snake locomotion, check out this link from UCS Louisiana: http://www.ucs.louisiana.edu/~brm2286/locomotn.htm
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