Question:

How far can a snake strike or leap?
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Snakes do not leap or jump into the air. Instead, those that do strike out coil themselves enough to get a push or strong outward movement designed to snatch prey or inject venom. Different species of snakes strike for different reasons. Most snakes can only strike about one half their total body length! They do not actually leave the ground and are effected by gravity like all other creatures. They may sometimes be on a slick surface where the inertia in their strike may carry them forward slightly, thus appearing to lunge. They are capable of striking upward or outward at that approximate one half length level, but it usually is enough to get the job done effectively! Most people tend to exaggerate the distance a snake strikes due to the fear surrounding the snake in general. Also, the farther a snake strikes, the more vulnerable it is to attack or injury. A predator may leap upon the snake right at the end of its strike when it is fully outstretched and has played out the full momentum but before the snake can get reset. The pre-strike coil is most often a defensive posture. Usually, a snake takes short quick jabs so as to rapidly ready itself and reposition for a second or third strike if necessary. Snakes do not strike with as much force as most people believe either.
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Happy Trails!