Serpents, commonly known as snakes, are elongated, legless reptiles belonging to the suborder Serpentes. They are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, deserts, and oceans. With over 3,000 species, snakes exhibit diverse colors, sizes, and behaviors. Most snakes are carnivorous, feeding on small animals, insects, and sometimes even other snakes. Snakes have unique adaptations, such as flexible jaws that allow them to swallow prey whole. They rely on their keen sense of smell, using a forked tongue to detect chemical signals in the environment. Some species, like the king cobra and rattlesnake, possess venom that helps them subdue prey and defend against threats.