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Time of India
9 hours ago
- Science
- Time of India
How to spot the difference between a poisonous and a non-poisonous snake
The slithering reptiles, snakes, are among the scariest creatures in the animal kingdom, whose mere presence sends chills down the spine. Their silent movements, forked tongues, sharp fangs, and dangerous look make them an unwelcome creature in backyards, while hiking, and at campsites. While there are over 3,000 species of snakes in the world, most of them are harmless. But to someone fearful about these legless reptiles, it often doesn't matter because all snakes look scary and creepy. However, it's important to understand that not all snakes pose a threat. In fact, some are also the helpers of the environment, but it is also important to identify which snakes are venomous and which are not. These helpful snakes can not only protect a chance encounter but also help by playing a role in controlling pests and keeping ecosystems balanced. Here are some important and minute physical and behavioural details that can help to differentiate a venomous snake from a non-venomous one. Head shape and pits offer clues A common way to identify venomous snakes is by the shape of their heads. They usually have triangular heads due to the venom glands at the back. But this isn't always reliable. Some non-venomous snakes can flatten their heads to copy this appearance. Instead, it is advised to look for 'pits' near the nose, as venomous snakes often have these heat-sensing holes, especially pit vipers like Malabar Pit Viper and Hump-nosed Pit Viper The shape of the eye's pupil Another important trait that separates a non-venomous snake from a venomous one is the snake's eyes. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Buy Brass Idols - Handmade Brass Statues for Home & Gifting Luxeartisanship Buy Now Undo According to a non-profit Land Trust in Trinidad and Tobago, venomous snakes have slit-like, cat-shaped pupils, while non-venomous snakes usually have round pupils. This method works, but only if one can get close enough, which can be dangerous, and it is never advised to risk the safety of a snake's eyes. However, this can also be checked using a zoom lens. Colour patterns can be misleading Colour and pattern can be a helpful trait, but they're not always foolproof. Many venomous snakes are brightly colored or patterned, while harmless ones are usually solid in colour. However, some non-venomous snakes copy the look of venomous ones to scare off predators. So while colour can be a hint, it should never be the only method for identifying a snake's danger level. Snakes' tails and sounds Snake tails can also be an important distinguishing factor, young Kukri snakes and cottonmouths often have bright coloured tails. Russell's viper, Saw-scaled viper and the Indian Cobra can be easily identified by their famous rattle. Even though some harmless snakes can copy this sound, it's safer to assume it's a real threat and slowly back away. Harmless snakes play a helpful role Not all snakes are dangerous. In fact, non-venomous snakes are nature's pest control experts. They feed on rats, mice, and other small pests that can damage crops or spread disease. According to a snake proof equipment manufacturer, some of these snakes even eat venomous ones, which reduces the chances of harmful encounters. So while they may still look scary, these harmless reptiles are essential for a healthy and balanced ecosystem Photo Credits: Canva
Irish Examiner
07-05-2025
- Irish Examiner
Revenue seize sword umbrella and ninja weapons at mail centre
Revenue officers have seized Ninja swords, a machete-like Nepalese knife, switchblade knives and a 'sword umbrella' during examinations of parcels over the past week. The collection of potentially deadly weapons were identified and confiscated in checks in the Midlands Mail Centre. One of the weapons is described as a 'sword umbrella', which may sound like something from a KGB spy novel, but is very real. They look, and can fold out, like an umbrella. But if the handle is pulled out it can be used as a bladed weapon. Also seized in just the past week were a couple of Japanese Ninja swords, with the characteristic curved blade. In addition, a 'Kukri' knife was uncovered in a package. It is a machete-type weapon, known as a ritual blade from Nepal. On top of these weapons, Revenue officers also confiscated foldaway switchblade knives as well as smoke bombs and fireworks. All these items were found in parcels at the Midlands Mail Centre during which staff, assisted by detector dogs, recovered packages of various drugs and counterfeit items. Along with similar operations at the Dublin Mail Centres, officers found a total of 5.4kg of cannabis herb, 5,200 street tablets, €42,750 in cash and a total of 561 counterfeit items, with an estimated street value of €178,000. The parcels originated from France, India, the Netherlands and the UK, and were destined for addresses nationwide.
