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Not all snakes are venomous or poisonous, and certain characteristics distinguish them.

How to tell the difference between poisonous and non-poisonous snakes | Pulse Nigeria

Temi Iwalaiye

Snakes are often considered deadly creatures, with a bite that can cause instant death due to venom release, unless anti-venom is administered by a healthcare provider.&nbsp;

<h2>Here are some common differences between poisonous and non-poisonous snakes</h2>

To distinguish between poisonous and non-poisonous snakes, observe their physical features. Venomous snakes often have triangle-shaped heads, elliptical pupils, and heat-sensing pits for detecting prey.

Non-venomous snakes typically have round heads and pupils, with vibrant colours serving as warning signals or muted colours for camouflage.

Snake behaviour is a key factor in identifying poisonous versus non-poisonous species. Venomous snakes tend to be more aggressive, often displaying defensive postures, hissing warnings, and coiling their bodies.

For example, a rattlesnake shakes its tail to produce a loud clicking sound. Non-venomous snakes, on the other hand, are generally more docile and usually try to escape when approached by humans.

ALSO READ: <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/food-travel/signs-there-are-snakes-in-your-backyard/de4mdpy">5 signs there are snakes in your backyard</a>

Venomous snakes are often found in specific environments, such as deserts, grasslands, or tropical forests, where their preferred prey is abundant. Non-venomous snakes, however, can inhabit a wider range of settings, including forests, grasslands, and urban areas.

ALSO READ: <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/beauty-health/what-to-do-after-a-snakebite/70zrfxc">Here's what to do after a snakebite</a>

A snake's pupils can also help distinguish between poisonous and non-poisonous species, though not all venomous snakes are the same.

Most venomous snakes have small, black, vertical pupils surrounded by yellow-green eyeballs, similar to a cat's eye. However, some venomous snakes, like the coral snake, have round pupils.

While examining pupils can indicate whether a snake is venomous, doing so requires close proximity, which can be a risky identification method.

That said, it’s important not to let yourself be<a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/what-to-do-if-you-get-bitten-by-a-snake/bhfhrwm"> bitten </a>by any snake, even if you believe it to be harmless.

How to tell the difference between poisonous and non-poisonous snakes [reddit]

How to tell the difference between poisonous and non-poisonous snakes

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