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This Chunky Snake Has a Record-Breaking Bite

This Chunky Snake Has a Record-Breaking Bite

The Gabon Viper (Bitis gabonica) is a regularly rotated specimen, growing up to 1.8 m (6 feet) in length in an impressive girth. Weighing in at 7-10 kg (15.4-22 pounds), these are the heaviest venomous snakes in Africa and the largest member of the Bitis genus in swimming. They live in the rain forests and woodlands of many countries in sub-Saharan Africa.

While the bulk of the Gabon Viper may be impressive, its plot can be even more impressive. They hold the world record for the longest stigma of any snake measuring 5 centimeters (2 inches).

These powerful fangs apply venom up to 2 grams (0.07 ounces) per bite, which is the highest yield of all venomous snakes. These bites can be fatal for people with blisters, heart and tissue damage, blood clots, and necrosis.

Headed like a fallen leaf, this nocturnal snake mingles on the forest floor while waiting to be hunted by the unfortunate prey. A passive predator, the Gabon Viper usually attacks small mammals, birds, frogs, and toads. However, individual specimens of this Hulking reptile have been identified as eating porcupines and antelope.

Despite its huge size and deadly bite, the Gabon Viper is actually a gentle monster of a calm nature. Spread a warning before striking if the snakes are annoyed. They rarely bite people; most are recorded from bite captive specimens. A report from South Korea in 2018 described a man being bitten by his 1.3-meter-long (4.26-foot) pet Gabon Viper.

The snake was believed to have been bought on the internet and smuggled into the country from Africa. The man has fully recovered, however, pictures of his injuries serve as a warning to be aware of these snakes, and they are not usually the way.