After years if watching my snake, Latte, I would like to put forth the theory that snakes are actually very intelligent, capable of solving multi-step puzzles to achieve their goals. I also think that they are capable of forming bonds, a statement that many snake owners will likely rebuff. - ThreadSky

corraven.bsky.social • 11 days ago

After years if watching my snake, Latte, I would like to put forth the theory that snakes are actually very intelligent, capable of solving multi-step puzzles to achieve their goals.

I also think that they are capable of forming bonds, a statement that many snake owners will likely rebuff.

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corraven.bsky.social•11 days ago

I theorize that snake brains work at a different, slower, "clock speed" most of the time. Most snakes when observed outside of hunting move at a slow methodical rate. Their metabolism slowed for efficiency. I think this applies to thought speed as well. Still intelligent, just on "slow time".

corraven.bsky.social•11 days ago

When hunting, a snake's behaviors change and their reactions, observational skills, and processing seem to speed up drastically, almost like a human experiencing adrenaline, but not. Their clock speed has just changed to "fast time".

Is anybody aware of any formal studies like this around reptiles?

skullbird.bsky.social•11 days ago

Cant seem to find it now, but i have seen studies talking about time perception in reptiles being tied to their temperature/metabolism, and they are aware that they can change it.
(also good studies on reptilian emotions as instincts, feeling fear to avoid something, joy to pursue it, etc)

corraven.bsky.social•11 days ago

I also really like that tie of emotions as instincts. I think that breaks down this barrier of perceiving them as being almost robotic like some old studies tend to frame them.
Sorry for the message spam, btw! I've been reading a lot about it today and my excitement just kind of escaped. XD

corraven.bsky.social•11 days ago

It is such a cool concept and snakes have such a variety of expressions through behavior. I'm truly enamoured watching my buddy just exist.

He has a favorite spot for his sock and he likes to rest his head on it in a way that he can observe the room. If I move the sock, it eventually get put back.

corraven.bsky.social•11 days ago

He communicates his wishes. If he sees me and he wants out he will point his head at the latch. If he wants to be left alone he will use his body to push my hand away.

I've been reading (mostly subjective) stories of similar behaviors across species of pet snakes.

corraven.bsky.social•11 days ago

I have no doubt it's an adaptive trait, but the snake owners become a part of the snake's familiar environment and they do seem to learn how to communicate with their owner their moods and and desires. I'm just so 💜 about it. Complex slow thinkers. Noodles with communication skills.

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