St. Patrick And The (Non-Existent) Snakes

It's one of the most popular Irish myths, the story of how St. Patrick drove all of the snakes out of Ireland and that's why to this day you don't see snakes in the Emerald Isle. However, scientific evidence has disproved this myth: Turns out, there were never any snakes in first place.

"At no time has there ever been any suggestion of snakes in Ireland, so [there was] nothing for St. Patrick to banish", naturalist Nigel Monaghan, keeper of natural history at the National Museum of Ireland in Dublin, who has searched extensively through Irish fossil collections and records, told National Geographic News.

Sorry to disappoint, but this never happened.

In fact, the only reptile that is native to Ireland is the viviparous, or common, lizard. The viviparous lizard measures less than five inches in length, but that doesn't include its tail which is up to two times longer than its body.

This lizard species is found farther north than any other reptile species, as far as the Arctic Circle. The viviparous lizard also gives birth to live offspring, rather than laying eggs as is normal for most other lizard species.

5 Animals That Are Symbols Of Good Luck

With St. Patrick's Day in just a couple weeks, we can't help but think about luck and charms. This inspired us to put together a list of animals that are considered to be symbols of good luck around the world. Some you likely know, but others are unexpected - it's interesting to see how different cultures view animals and their symbolism.

Albatross

An albatross is both a symbol of good and bad luck. Ancient sailors considered seeing one a sign of good luck, as land was near. However, the "Rime Of The Ancient Mariner" also gave the albatross status as an unlucky charm.

Bats

In China, the bat symbolizes a long and happy life. Bat charms are often worn to protect against bad luck.

Crickets

In Asian and European cultures, finding a cricket in your home has been a symbol of good luck for thousands of years. And unlike us, they don't mind crickets chirping in the night; it's considered a sign of companionship.

Pigs

In Germany, pigs are considered a symbol of wealth and prosperity.

Tigers

The tiger is a good luck symbol in Chinese culture, and considered a protector against certain evils.

Feel like you need some extra luck? Shop TheJungleStore.com by animal to add any of these symbols of good luck to your home!