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Are snakes more poisonous when they are young?
I recently heard that a venomous snake is most poisonous when it is young because the snake has no control over the amount of venom it releases (an ability it doesn't gain until it is older). I was initially doubtful of this. I did some research and I haven't found any information either proving or disproving this.
Does anybody know if there is truth to this?
4 Answers
- 1 decade agoFavourite answer
You are correct. Younger snakes will generally empty most of their supply into their prey as they are unsure of amount needed to incapacitate. As they get older, they release smaller amounts based on size of prey, but it is something they learn over time.
Go here http://www.alongtheway.org/rattlesnakes/basics.htm... and read the 10th paragraph.
Source(s): http://www.alongtheway.org/rattlesnakes/basics.htm... and Nature Channel - KesLv 71 decade ago
It is likely true. Young snakes may have highly potent venom but large snakes may have more venom. Cobras do not inject venom at every strike (dry bites) which makes a big difference regarding survival of a cobra strike. Mature snakes may inject the right amount of venom that the situation calls for (defense or prey, etc.).
