support@headlinenews360.com
Last Updated:
The Mock Viper imitates the distinct hiss of the highly venomous Russell’s Viper, creating a false perception among humans that they are facing a deadly threat
The Mock Viper is only mildly venomous and has little to no effect on adults, and only a mild effect on children. (Local18)
About 45 species of snakes are found in Valmiki, Bihar’s only tiger reserve. Some of these are highly venomous and rare, while others are remarkable despite being non-venomous. However, there is one species of snake that can quite fittingly be called a bluff master. Though it belongs to the mildly venomous category, it has managed to present itself to the world as one of the most aggressive and dangerous snakes to ever exist. Experts say this bluff master is none other than the Mock Viper.
Mock Vipers Are Mildly Venomous
Project Manager at the Nature Environment and Wildlife Society, Abhishek, who has been active for the past 25 years, says that the Mock Viper is only mildly venomous. Its bite has little to no effect on adults and only a mild impact on children.
The snake is primarily orange with a slightly muddy hue. Its venomous fangs curve backward, and the venom they deliver is not particularly potent. A bite from this snake is not fatal but may cause symptoms such as vomiting or mild stomach ache in some cases.
Mimics The Scary Hiss Of A Russell’s Viper
Abhishek adds, “The most fascinating aspect of the Mock Viper is how, despite being only mildly venomous, it has evolved traits that not only protect it from predators but also mislead humans into thinking it’s far more dangerous than it actually is.”
The Mock Viper imitates the distinct hiss of the highly venomous Russell’s Viper, creating a false perception among humans that they are facing a deadly threat. Surprisingly, this mimicry is so convincing that even humans are deceived and react with fear.
Found In The Valmiki Tiger Reserve
Interestingly, because of its imitation of the Russell’s Viper, the Mock Viper also carries ‘Viper’ in its name. These snakes are found across various parts of Asia and are particularly visible in the Valmiki Tiger Reserve, located in Bihar’s West Champaran district. However, due to their shy nature, they rarely come into contact with people.
- Location :
Bihar, India, India
