A serpent is a legless reptile belonging to the suborder Serpentes. They are characterized by their elongated bodies, smooth scales, and lack of eyelids. Serpents can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, deserts, and oceans, and they play important roles in ecosystems as both predators and prey. Most serpents are carnivorous, feeding on small animals such as rodents, birds, and insects. They use various methods to capture their prey, including constriction and venom. Some well-known species include the cobra, python, and rattlesnake, each with unique adaptations for survival.