Snakes are of major importance as pest controllers because of
their extensive predation on destructive mammals such as rats
and mice. Some, like the sea snakes and pythons, are highly
regarded as food in Asia but, although most are probably edible,
snakes are not widely used for meat. The skin is often used for
belts, bags, and shoes. Venom is removed from snakes for use in
treating certain diseases and to make antivenin for snakebites.
See also snake worship. Sections in this article: The Columbia
Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Copyright © 2012, Columbia
University Press. All rights reserved.