What unique shape of track marks is often left by the sidewinding Cerastes vipera?
Answer
J-shaped
The specialized sidewinding movement results in a distinctive signature left in the loose sand substrate. Because the snake throws its body into loops and only contacts the ground at minimal points while propelling itself sideways, the pattern left behind is unique. Observers often note that the snake appears to jump or loop sideways, leaving track marks that are specifically described as J-shaped. These unique impressions in the sand are frequently the first observable evidence that a sand viper has passed through an area.
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