Answer:
A leathery snake, with a stinging bite. I'll stay coiled up, unless I must fight.
This thing all things devours: Birds, beasts, trees, flowers; Gnaws iron, bites steel; Grinds hard stones to meal; Slays king, ruins town, And beats high mountains down.
Fuels backyard get-togethers
My coat keeps me safe From damage that’s near. I cause you happiness, sadness, Anticipation and fear. On the outside, I am put under judgment of price. But my insides have far more value That not even MONEY can suffice.
What force and strength cannot get through. I, with a gentle touch, can do. Many in the street would stand. Were I not a friend at hand.
Almost everyone needs it, asks for it, gives it. But almost nobody takes it.