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.