Top 5 for Snake Charmers

This list is dedicated to the magical hypnotists of the world's cutest, cuddliest and most adored creature... the snake. I'm soon journeying to Iceland, so this will be my last blog post until April or May of 2011.

1. Flag of Martinique

The flag of Martinique depicts the Martinique lancehead, a pit viper that is unique to the French island. These snakes can grow one to two metres in length and are venomous. Fortunately, you're not likely to die if you get bit by one of them; the venom causes only a localized reaction. Sometimes it's even used as a healing agent in homeopathic remedies.   

2. Flag of Manipur, India

A snake eating its own tail is a common symbol of cycles and re-creation. There are over 200 species of snakes in India, and snake charmers can be found all over the country. Snakes play a significant role in Indian mythologies and beliefs, and are both feared and revered. They are worshipped each year at a festival called Naga Panchami and Hindu temples have been erected in their honour.

3. Flag of Mexico

This flag with be a favorite of those readers who happen to have ophidiophobia. The coat of arms found in the centre of the Mexican flag illustrates a Mexican Golden Eagle perched on a cactus with a serpent clutched in its talons and beak. According to Aztec legend, a city was to be built where an eagle was found eating a snake on a prickly pear cactus; that city, Tenochtitlan, is now known as Mexico City. 

4. Gadsden Flag (and) 5. First U.S. Navy Jack

Named after American statesman and general Christopher Gadsden, the fourth flag on my list is a historical naval flag of the American Revolution. The rattlesnake is coiled and prepared to strike, but snakes won't attack unless provoked. The Gadsden flag is one of the earliest flags of the United States and it is still flown to this day, its message now directed toward terrorists. The first U.S. Navy Jack, seen below, also utilizes the rattlesnake and the phrase "Don't Tread on Me." The original thirteen colonies are represented in the thirteen layers of the snake's rattle.