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Deadly..
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| [Note Guidelines] Photographer's Note |
Puff Adder
Bitis arietans is a venomous viper species found in savannah and grasslands from Morocco and western Arabia throughout Africa except for the Sahara and rain forest regions. This is considered to be Africa's most dangerous snake, not only because it is probably the most common and widespread snake in Africa, but also because of its large size, potent venom, and willingness to bite.
Although mainly terrestrial, these snakes are good swimmers and can also climb with ease; often they are found basking in low bushes. One specimen was found 4.6 m above the ground in a densely branched tree.
If disturbed, they will hiss loudly and continuously, adopting a tightly coiled defensive posture with the fore part of their body held in a taut 'S' shape. At the same time, they may attempt to back away from the threat towards cover. They may strike suddenly and with very high speed, doing so to the side as easily as forwards before returning quickly to the defensive position, ready to strike again. During a strike, the force of the impact is so strong and the long fangs penetrate so deeply, that prey items are often killed by the physical trauma alone. They are apparently able to penetrate soft leather.
They can strike to a distance of about one-third of their body length. Juveniles, however, will launch their entire bodies forwards in the process. These snakes rarely grip their victims, instead releasing quickly to return to striking position.
Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bitis_arietans |
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Leon,
Thank you for the thriller?
I will cancel my safari in Africa immediately/-).
Seriously..a bit out of focus(probably a hit and run:-) but compo okay.
TFS
Annick
Hello Lion, I find this snake many time travelling in your country.
It's really impressive how it is terrific.
Good shot,
Andrea
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