by EWBrown » Mon Dec 07, 2009 8:18 pm
There are, two types around these parts, Timber Rattlers and Copperheads, both fairly prevalent. Go further east / south and the quantity and quality of "hot"species expands considerably.
A little sidetracking here:
FWIW, it isn't all that widely known, but all species of Hognose Snakes are mildly venomous. Firstly, they are not aggressive, except that they can put on an impressive display of mock ferocity, hissing loudly, and striking repeatedly - with a closed mouth. . If all of tthat fails, they simply go on to plan B: Play Dead. If you try to flip them right side up, they'll just turn over and play dead again. And again... In general, most will not attempt to bite, and most can't be made to bite during these displays.
However, after they are kept as pets, and they can develop quite the strong "feeding response", in that anything within reach and seemingly small enough to be swallowed, will be struck and chewed. On rare occasions, this can include human fingers and thumbs, especially if they have just been handling the snake's food. I haven't experienced this, but I know of more than one snake-keeper who has.
The "fangs" (actually enlarged, grooved, rear teeth) are located in the rear of the mouth, and they can deliver a mildly toxic, (not dangerous to humans) venom, which can cause some swelling and minor pain, and in sensitive individuals, a mild allergic reaction which can cause a general "nervous" feeling (the venom contains adrenaline-like substances) which can last a day or two, but there are no long term harmful effects. This venom is most effective on their main prey item, toads.
/ed B
Last edited by
EWBrown on Sun Aug 28, 2011 10:02 pm, edited 1 time in total.
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