Changes

==Scales==

==Scales==

There is much variation in the size and shape of scales among species of snakes. For instance the [[Bushmaster|bushmaster]] has scales that are large with a dermal core or osteoderm while they may be partially overlapping and keeled in the [[Rattlesnake|rattlesnake]]. The smallest scales are seen in the [[Boidae|boids]] and worm snakes.

There is much variation in the size and shape of scales among species of snakes: the [[Bushmaster|bushmaster]] for example, has scales that are large with a dermal core or osteoderm while they may be partially overlapping and keeled in the [[Rattlesnake|rattlesnake]]. The smallest scales are seen in the [[Boidae|boids]] and worm snakes.

 

==Glands==

==Glands==

Almost no skin glands occur in snakes, but [[Cloaca|coacal]] scent glands (anal glands) are present.  They occur at the base of the tail, dorsal to the [[Hemipenes|hemipenes]] in a male, and open into the posterior margin of the cloaca. These organs play a role in defense resulting from their unpleasant odour, which may also carry social signals.  These may become enlarged, impacted, or abscessed in captivity.   

Almost no skin glands occur in snakes, but [[Cloaca|coacal]] scent glands (anal glands) are present.  They occur at the base of the tail, dorsal to the [[Hemipenes|hemipenes]] in a male, and open into the posterior margin of the cloaca. These organs play a role in defense resulting from their unpleasant odour, which may also carry social signals.  These may become enlarged, impacted, or abscessed in captivity.