Viral Jungle Video Reveals Snake’s Never-Before-Seen Tree-Climbing Technique
A viral video captured in a jungle at night has stunned wildlife enthusiasts by showing a snake climbing a tree with an unprecedented technique. Unlike the typical concertina locomotion used by most snakes, this serpent demonstrates a unique coiling-and-uncoiling method, allowing it to ascend quickly and effortlessly.
Snake’s Extraordinary Climbing Ability Defies Expectations
Snakes, including large species like pythons, are natural climbers despite having no limbs. They rely on their powerful muscles, flexible bodies, and specialized belly scales (scutes) to grip rough surfaces like tree bark. The concertina method—named after the folding motion of an accordion—is the most common technique observed in arboreal snakes. It involves:
- Anchoring – The snake coils its lower body tightly around the trunk for stability.
- Extending – It stretches its upper body upward to reach a higher point.
- Re-anchoring – It secures a new grip before pulling the rest of its body up.
However, the snake in this viral jungle footage is performing something never documented before. Instead of the usual accordion-like movement, it:
- Coils the front portion of its body around the tree.
- Pushes upward while uncoiling, freeing the rear section.
- Repeats the process rapidly, allowing it to climb with astonishing speed and precision.
Watch the video here:
This is how snake climb trees 😳 pic.twitter.com/09rHmam6wl
— Nature is Amazing ☘️ (@AMAZlNGNATURE) July 12, 2025
Why This Discovery Matters
This never-before-seen climbing technique challenges previous understanding of snake locomotion. Experts suggest that this method may be more energy-efficient or better suited for certain tree textures. Further research is needed to determine whether this behavior is species-specific or an evolutionary adaptation.
The video has sparked widespread fascination, highlighting how much remains unknown about wildlife behavior—even in commonly studied species.
