The blind snake is a small, worm-like, non-venomous tropical snake that eats ants and termites. Because they are adapted to burrowing, their eyes are very small, and are covered by thick translucent scales. As a result their eyesight is very poor.
Snakes move in one of four ways. In serpentine motion a series of waves is produced in the snake’s body that then pushes it forward. In rectilinear motion belly scales grip the ground allowing the snake to pull itself forward. In concertina motion a snake bunches itself up in a spring-like manner and pulls itself forward. Lastly, in sidewinding motion a snake lifts a loop off the ground as it moves sideways.
The eyesight of snakes varies a great deal. Some have very sharp eyesight while others are blind. Instead of having eyelids a snake’s eye is covered by clear scales, so its eyes are always open. Snakes are generally nearsighted, and it is thought that they lack the ability to focus. The two circular loops embedded in the design represent the blind snake’s small round eyes.
Every year, Karajá Indians celebrate the passage of young boys, ages 10 through 12, from adolescence to manhood. During the initiation rite, boys are confined for seven days in a ritual house called Hetohoky, or “Big House”.
An oar is a long pole with a broad blade at one end used for propelling and steering a canoe or row boat. A kayak paddle is an oar with a blade at both ends. Blade shape varies greatly and affects its efficiency. When seen face on, a blade’s outline can be symmetrical or asymmetrical. When viewed lengthwise, the blade can appear flat or curved. When viewed in cross section, the blade often has an exotic shape that improves its function.
