Online Class: Snakes of the Western Hemisphere

This course provides an immersive experience uncovering the mysteries of snakes, from their ancient adaptations to their critical ecological functions. Delve into the cultural significance of snakes worldwide, and walk away empowered with life-saving knowledge and a newfound respect for these creatures.

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$120.00
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$120.00 (with CEU Certificate)
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  • 12
    Lessons
  • 26
    Exams &
    Assignments
  • 4
    Hours
    average time
  • 0.4
    CEUs
 
 
 

Course Description

Get ready to dive into a world that's as thrilling as it is enlightening. Whether you're captivated by the sleek, silent movement of a python or mesmerized by the ancient lore surrounding the cobra, this course on Snakes of the Western Hemisphere offers a truly unique journey into the mysteries, biology, and cultural significance of these fascinating reptiles. Imagine unlocking the secrets of creatures that have roamed the Earth for millions of years, from the rainforests of South America to the sun-baked deserts of the American Southwest. This course doesn't just scratch the surface--it immerses you in the heart of snake evolution, behavior, and their vital role in ecosystems.

Picture yourself gaining the knowledge to confidently identify some of the world's most impressive and elusive species. Want to know what makes the rattlesnake's venom so deadly? Or how the boa constrictor silently ambushes its prey? You'll come away from this course with a deep understanding of these serpents, from their remarkable biological adaptations to their role in keeping ecosystems balanced. This isn't just a learning experience; it's a journey that equips you with the insight to appreciate the power, elegance, and sometimes misunderstood beauty of snakes.

But this course is more than just biology. You'll explore the myths and stories that have shaped human history--how snakes have been revered, feared, and symbolized in cultures for centuries. From the serpents of ancient Egyptian lore, believed to guard treasures and secrets, to the cobras that have become iconic in Indian traditions, you'll be fascinated by how these creatures have influenced art, religion, and folklore. Imagine unraveling these stories and gaining a new respect for snakes, not as villains, but as complex and essential beings within the tapestry of life on Earth.

Knowledge That Empowers: If you've ever been curious about what to do in the event of a snake encounter, this course will arm you with practical, life-saving tips. Learn how to prevent snake bites, what to do in case of an attack, and the most effective treatments available today. You'll feel empowered, knowing exactly how to navigate environments where snakes are present--whether you're out hiking, camping, or even considering a pet snake.

By the end of this course, you won't just learn about snakes--you'll understand them. You'll be able to distinguish between the world's most venomous species, decode their behaviors, and appreciate their contributions to biodiversity. The lessons you take away will be rooted in both science and experience, helping you grasp how snakes communicate, defend themselves, and thrive in some of the world's most hostile environments.

Why take this course? Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a future snake owner, or simply curious about the natural world, this course will give you unparalleled insight. Imagine impressing your friends with newfound knowledge about the snake that crossed your path on a hike, or confidently explaining the differences between venomous and non-venomous species. Perhaps you're a lover of adventure and knowledge--this course will fuel that passion, giving you a deeper connection to the natural world.

Snakes have been feared, misunderstood, and often overlooked, but after taking this course, you'll find yourself filled with admiration and respect for these remarkable creatures. You'll see the beauty in their movements, the sophistication in their hunting strategies, and the importance of their role in maintaining nature's balance. If you're ready for an unforgettable learning experience that opens your eyes to one of nature's most intriguing animals, this course is for you.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to explore the awe-inspiring world of snakes. You're about to embark on a journey that's equal parts thrilling and educational. Dive in now, and get ready to see snakes in a whole new light!

Courses Frequently Bought Together:
  • Completely Online
  • Self-Paced
  • Printable Lessons
  • Full HD Video  
  • 6 Months to Complete
  • 24/7 Availability
  • Start Anytime
  • PC & Mac Compatible
  • Android & iOS Friendly
  • Accredited CEUs
Universal Class is an IACET Accredited Provider
 
 

Course Lessons

Average Lesson Rating:
4.60 / 5 Stars (Average Rating)
"Extraordinarily Helpful"
(1,050 votes)

Lesson 1. The Evolutionary Tale of Snakes

Masters of adaptation, snakes have evolved to thrive across a multitude of environments, casting off limbs in exchange for streamlined prowess. Their interactions with humans oscillate between fear and admiration, underscoring a complex dynamic rooted in both myth and reality. 23 Total Points
  • Lesson 1 Video
  • Lesson discussions: Snakes; Reasons for Taking this Course
  • Complete Assignment: An Introduction
  • Assessment: Lesson 1: Introduction and History of Snakes
  • Assessment: Lesson 1 Review Exam

Lesson 2. The Enigma of Serpents: Guardians and Challengers

Religious traditions worldwide feature snakes as central figures, from fertility symbols in American Indian rituals to protective beings in Buddhism and Hinduism, highlighting their significance in connecting the human experience with the divine and natural world. In Western religions, snakes embody both deceit and spiritual redemption, as seen in Judeo-Christian stories, where they represent sin and healing. 29 Total Points
  • Lesson 2 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 2: Snake Myths in Religion and Culture
  • Assessment: Lesson 2 Review Exam

Lesson 3. Snakes Unveiled: Understanding Their Cultural and Ecological Roles

Misconceptions about snakes, such as their aggression or venom potency, often fuel unfounded fear. By debunking these myths, individuals can coexist peacefully with snakes, recognizing their role in promoting biodiversity and ecosystem health. 29 Total Points
  • Lesson 3 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 3: Types of Snakes and Snake Myths vs. Fact
  • Assessment: Lesson 3 Review Exam

Lesson 4. Snake Skeletons: Evolutionary Marvels

The elongated backbone and skeletal flexibility of snakes facilitate unique movement patterns, such as slithering and climbing, essential for their predatory success. Intricate venom compositions and proficient sensory organs make snakes formidable hunters that support ecosystem equilibrium. 30 Total Points
  • Lesson 4 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 4: Biology of Snakes
  • Assessment: Lesson 4 Review Exam

Lesson 5. Carnivorous Diets: From Thread Snakes to Anacondas

Snakes’ incredible adaptations—from specialized jaws to diverse reproductive strategies—underline their evolutionary prowess, enabling them to dominate various ecological niches. Understanding their complex behaviors offers insights into their longevity and the evolutionary design of nature’s sophisticated systems. 30 Total Points
  • Lesson 5 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 5: Snake Behavior
  • Assessment: Lesson 5 Review Exam

Lesson 6. The Remarkable Boidae: Masters of Anatomy and Adaptation

Boas and pythons display an evolutionary history embodied in muscular bodies and remnant pelvic girdles, attesting to their shared lineage with lizards. Varied geographic distributions and reproductive methods, such as live births in boas, enhance the species' adaptability and underscore their ecological importance. 30 Total Points
  • Lesson 6 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 6: The Boidae Family (Boas and Pythons)
  • Assessment: Lesson 6 Review Exam

Lesson 7. The Role of Elapids in Ecosystems and Human Interactions

Renowned for their potent venom, elapids such as cobras and sea snakes demonstrate evolutionary mastery with specialized anatomical features enabling both terrestrial and aquatic life. From hood displays to mimicry, these snakes exhibit a range of distinctive adaptations that underscore their ecological significance as apex predators. 19 Total Points
  • Lesson 7 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 7: Elapids (Cobras, Mambas, Kraits and Coral Snakes)
  • Assessment: Lesson 7 Review Exam

Lesson 8. Silent Hunters: The Role of Vipers in Ecosystems

Vipers are ambush predators using camouflage and heat-sensing pits to detect prey, with retractable fangs delivering a venomous strike that immobilizes and begins digestion before swallowing. Cottonmouths, as semi-aquatic vipers, exhibit diverse feeding habits, preying on fish and other snakes in their habitats. 20 Total Points
  • Lesson 8 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 8: Viperidae (Vipers and Rattlesnakes)
  • Assessment: Lesson 8 Review Exam

Lesson 9. Colubrids and Blind Snakes: Ecosystem Balancers

While rarely seen, blind snakes burrow through soil, using their reduced sight and sleek bodies to maintain ecological equilibrium by controlling termite populations. On the opposite end, colubrids are abundant and diverse, ranging from harmless garden companions to sly mimics of venomous species, embodying nature's adaptive prowess. 30 Total Points
  • Lesson 9 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 9: Blind Snakes and Colubrids
  • Assessment: Lesson 9 Review Exam

Lesson 10. The Balance of Nature: Living Harmoniously with Snakes

Pet owners must be vigilant as curious animals can approach snakes, leading to potential danger. Snake aversion training and keeping pets leashed in snake-prone areas significantly reduce encounter risks. 30 Total Points
  • Lesson 10 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 10: Snake Safety
  • Assessment: Lesson 10 Review Exam

Lesson 11. Antivenin: A Lifesaving Necessity for Snakebite Victims

Despite the rarity of fatal snake bites in the West, their potential to cause severe harm highlights the importance of immediate, appropriate medical response and knowledge on antivenin use. In regions like India, a combination of venomous snake prevalence and inadequate healthcare infrastructure results in a starkly higher mortality rate. 25 Total Points
  • Lesson 11 Video
  • Lesson discussions: Snake Bites
  • Assessment: Lesson 11: When Snakes Attack
  • Assessment: Lesson 11 Review Exam

Lesson 12. Exploring Snake Hobbies: An Age-Old Fascination

Field herping offers a responsible way for enthusiasts to admire snakes, focusing on observation and data collection rather than capturing or harming these reptiles. Participants play a pivotal role in conservation by contributing valuable knowledge about snake species, promoting ecological balance, and advocating for habitat preservation. 64 Total Points
  • Lesson 12 Video
  • Lesson discussions: Snake Hobbies; Program Evaluation Follow-up Survey (End of Course); Course Comments; Reasons for Taking this Course
  • Assessment: Lesson 12: Snake Hobbies
  • Assessment: The Final Exam
  • Assessment: Lesson 12 Review Exam
359
Total Course Points
 

Learning Outcomes

By successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
  • Summarize snake myths in religion and culture.
  • Describe types of snakes and snake myths versus fact.
  • Summarize biology of snakes.
  • Describe snake behavior.
  • Summarize the boidae family (boas and pythons).
  • Identify elapids (cobras, mambas, kraits and coral snakes).
  • Identify viperidae (vipers and rattlesnakes).
  • Describe blind snakes and colubrids.
  • Summarize snake safety.
  • Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.
 

Additional Course Information

Online CEU Certificate
  • Document Your Lifelong Learning Achievements
  • Earn an Official Certificate Documenting Course Hours and CEUs
  • Verify Your Certificate with a Unique Serial Number Online
  • View and Share Your Certificate Online or Download/Print as PDF
  • Display Your Certificate on Your Resume and Promote Your Achievements Using Social Media
Document Your CEUs on Your Resume
 
Course Title: Snakes of the Western Hemisphere
Course Number: 8900129
Lessons Rating: 4.60 / 5 Stars (1,050 votes)
Languages: English - United States, Canada and other English speaking countries
Availability: You can take this course online in every U.S. state including California, Texas, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Ohio, and Georgia. International availability includes English-speaking countries like Canada, Australia, the UK, and South Africa.
Last Updated: April 2024
Course Type: Self-Paced, Online Class
CEU Value: 0.4 IACET CEUs (Continuing Education Units)
CE Accreditation: Universal Class, Inc. has been accredited as an Authorized Provider by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET).
Grading Policy: Earn a final grade of 70% or higher to receive an online/downloadable CEU Certification documenting CEUs earned.
Assessment Method: Lesson assignments and review exams
Instructor: Cathleen Chouinard
Syllabus: View Syllabus
Course Fee: $120.00 U.S. dollars

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Student Testimonials

  • "I took this course as I was thinking of getting a pet snake. I now realize that it would not be a good idea for me. I now have a better appreciation for snakes but will stick to my cat and dog. Great course, truly enjoyed it. Thanks." -- Debra G.
  • "what was most helpful was the feedback on assignments and exams but also the supplemental links for lesson enrichment." -- Richard T.