Are snakes carnivores, herbivores or omnivores?

Snakes are carnivores. The specific food they consume depends upon the snakes' size, species and habitat, but their prey includes insects, eggs, mice, fish, frogs and lizards.

Snakes' jaws have hinges that let them open wide and eat large prey. This allows some snakes to eat enormous animals. For instance, it is possible, though not usual, for a python to ingest a deer, a small cow or even a crocodile.

Snakes do not need to eat every day. In general, thin-bodied snakes eat at least once a week. Heavy-bodied snakes dine less frequently. The need to feed depends upon the snake's age and the size of the meal. A python or boa typically eats one or two good-sized meals a month.