A recent survey found that 42% of people in Britain are afraid of snakes, while just 9% are afraid of dogs.

In Chinese mythology, snakes are associated with darkness. But they also represent wisdom, wealth and the pursuit of love and happiness. The fact that snakes shed their skins makes them symbols of rebirth.

According to the Chinese lunar calendarA calendar that uses the phases of the moon to mark the passage of time., this year also represents wood and fire. This combination, says one expert, produces intelligent people who are "resilient, courageous and positive."

Scientists say that snakes are much more complex than people realise. They smell with their tongues, which collect particles from the air, earth and water and analyse them to track their prey. Some snakes, such as the anaconda, can do this under water.

Snakes are extremely sensitive to temperature, and will react to tiny changes in it. They can survive in very harsh conditions and play a very useful role in nature by controlling rats and mice, and their venomA poisonous substance secret by such animals as snakes, spiders and scorpians. is an important ingredient in many drugs.

Should we embrace our inner serpent?

Yes! As Chinese mythology recognises, snakes have many more good qualities than bad ones.

No! There are good reasons for snakes having such a terrible reputation and we should recognise them for the venomous creatures they are.  

Lunar Calendar - A calendar that uses the phases of the moon to mark the passage of time.

Venom - A poisonous substance secret by such animals as snakes, spiders and scorpians.