If you're one of the many people who think snakes are nothing but slimy and scary creatures, then you're missing out on a variety of positive benefits that these amazing animals can provide. From improving the local ecology to providing valuable medical insight, there are a variety of cases in which snakes offer us a unique and invaluable service. Here are just a few of the ways in which snakes can be beneficial.

One of the most obvious benefits of some of the more common snakes is their abundance and overall help in maintaining a healthy ecological balance in their local habitats. Snakes help to limit the numbers of certain other animals, such as rodents and other small pests, by preying on them for food. By doing this, they can ensure that local flora and fauna remain unharmed and naturally in balance, while also helping farmers and gardeners protect their crops from pests.

Snakes also have several important contributions to the world of science and medicine. They can act as a form of biological control, helping to limit the population of species that may otherwise be considered pests. In addition, their venom (or other bodily secretions) can be harvested and used as a form of antivenin, medicines and antibiotics.