Latest news with #Gaboonviper
India.com
4 days ago
- General
- India.com
This snake has world's largest fang, it looks like a..., the name is..., not King Cobra or Black Mamba
This snake has world's largest fang, it looks like a..., the name is…, not King Cobra or Black Mamba Gaboon Viper: Snakes are indeed one of the most mysterious creatures in the world. They are one of the most brutal killers of nature, and they show no mercy to their prey. Interestingly, snakes are considered evil in some religions, while others worship the serpent-like gods. The rainforest located in the savannas of sub-Saharan Africa is home to the continent's most lethal predators, which are well protected in the forest. Among these predators, a slithering creature, underestimated by its size and potent venom, is known for its speed and attack. In fact, one walking near one might never even know this dangerous snake is there, until it's too late. We are talking about the dangerous Gaboon viper. This serpent doesn't hiss like a King Cobra or rattle like a Rattlesnake or even chase; rather, it waits motionless, using its camouflaging strategy with surprising perfection. The Gaboon Viper The Gaboon viper is the heaviest venomous snake in Africa, stretching up to six feet and weighing as much as 25 pounds. With a broad, leaf-shaped head and patterns that look like dead leaves and bark, this serpent almost disappears into its surroundings. The Gaboon Viper is the heaviest venomous snake in the entire Africa. With a stretch of up to six feet, it weighs as much as 25 pound (approx 11.3 kgs). Invisible In Plain Sight Gaboon vipers are masters of disguise, their intricate coloration blending seamlessly with the forest floor. This exceptional camouflage makes them incredibly difficult to spot, even for experienced reptile experts. They remain motionless for extended periods, patiently ambushing unsuspecting prey. While generally slow-moving, their strike is remarkably fast, a characteristic likely developed to minimize energy expenditure while maximizing hunting success. The Venom Notably, the Gaboon Viper's venom is not the most toxic in the world but what matters is the quantity. As per Forbes, Gaboon Viper is inject between 200 to 1000 milligrams of venom per bite. This quantity of venom surpasses the quantity of the inland taipan and Russell's viper in venom yield. Its exceptionally large venom glands allow it to produce a significant amount of venom. The Largest Fangs Gaboon vipers is loaded with the world's longest snake fangs, reaching up to two inches in length. These exceptionally long fangs fold back when the mouth is closed, enabling deep venom injection and rapid incapacitation of prey. While possessing a potent venom delivery system, the Gaboon viper is generally docile and rarely bites humans unless threatened. However, habitat loss due to deforestation and development in sub-Saharan Africa has led to the species being classified as vulnerable by the IUCN.
Yahoo
30-01-2025
- Yahoo
5 Bay Area residents charged in illegal wildlife trafficking sting
SAN FRANCISCO (KRON) — An undercover investigation into illegal wildlife trafficking in Northern California led to five people from the Bay Area being charged, the California Department of Wildlife announced Wednesday. Dozens of live venomous snakes were seized during the operation. CDFW wildlife officers uncovered a network of wildlife trafficking that was involved in the illegal sales of venomous snakes, officials said. Recently, a 'significant' sting operation led to the seizure of 75 animals. Of the animals seized, 66 were live venomous snakes, including Gaboon viper, Egyptian cobra and several species of rattlesnakes, CDFW said. California wildlife officials worked with the Wildlife Confiscation Network to transfer many of the seized animals to the Fresno, Denver and Toledo zoos, as well as other reputable facilities. 'They will now serve as ambassadors in raising awareness about the impacts of wildlife trafficking,' CDFW said. The five individuals who face charges for a range of violations in connection to the wildlife trafficking investigation are all from the Bay Area, officials confirmed to KRON4. 'Snakes play a crucial role as both predator and prey,' CDFW said, but noted that non-native venomous reptiles threaten California's ecosystems and public safety. 'It's essential to stay vigilant.' 3 orphaned mountain lion cubs rescued in Bay Area Illegal wildlife activity can be reported anonymously to CDFW through the CalTIP hotline at 888-334-2258 or via the Tip411 app. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
