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Understanding Snakes: Ecology and Adaptations

May 21, 2025

Lecture Notes

Introduction to Snakes as Predators

  • Snakes are often more art than science to handle.
  • Venomous snakes can be extremely dangerous with lethal bites.
  • Example: Australian Copperhead, cannibalistic snake.

Snake Behaviour and Ecology

  • Australian Copperhead:

    • Capable of surviving in harsh environments like snowy mountains and swamps.
    • Known for cannibalistic tendencies.
  • Paradise Tree Snake:

    • Capable of gliding through air.
    • Studied for its biomechanics in flight.
  • Gaboon Viper:

    • Largest viper with longest fangs; highly venomous.
    • Found in Cameroon, shows remarkable camouflage.

Venom and Antivenin Production

  • Papua Taipan:

    • Extremely venomous; high mortality rate without treatment.
    • Research ongoing for a portable antivenin suitable for remote areas.
  • Bandit Sea Krait & Spitting Cobra:

    • Research into venom immunity and potential medical applications.

Human Interactions and Snake Hunting

  • Cape Cobra:

    • Highly dangerous, often found in human habitats.
    • Snake wranglers use meerkats for snake detection.
  • Death Adder:

    • Notorious for its fast strike and camouflaging abilities.
    • Used for antivenom production in Australia.

Misunderstood Nature of Snakes

  • North American Pit Vipers (Cottonmouth, Eastern Diamondback, Copperhead):
    • Often more defensive than aggressive.
    • Misconceptions about their nature and behavior.

Cultural and Traditional Snake Handling

  • Church Handling of Copperheads:

    • Ritualistic handling with belief in divine protection.
  • Irula Snake Catchers in India:

    • Traditional hunters turned venom suppliers for antivenin production.

Unique Snake Adaptations

  • Boa Constrictors:

    • Non-venomous but strong; study on size evolution between island and mainland species.
  • Eyelash Vipers:

    • Distinctive for their scales; research into their diurnal hunting patterns.

Conclusion

  • Snakes pose various threats but also have significant ecological and medical importance.
  • Ongoing research aims to understand snakes better and utilize their venoms for therapeutic purposes.