![]() ![]() ![]() nuchalis) are responsible for most fatalities. The eastern brown snake ( Pseudonaja textilis) and its western counterpart ( P. If immediate proper medical care is sought, bites are rarely fatal. “Ninety per cent of snakebites in Australia are from people mucking around with them, trying to kill them or impress a girlfriend,” says Billy Collett, head of reptiles of the Australian Reptile Park, and one of the few people who makes a living milking snakes for the production of antivenom. Statistically, you are more likely to be killed by a dog or a cow than a snake. (Image: Wikimedia Commons).ĭespite Australia harbouring many of the world’s most dangerous snake species, snakebite deaths are rare and only account for about two deaths a year. Snakes have held strong symbolism throughout history and are referenced throughout the Christian bible. And in non-Eurasian cultures, snakes were welcomed in Peru and Mexico, where they were revered as mortal forms of the gods.Įve Tempted By The Serpent, painting by William Blake. In China, the snake holds a place on the Zodiac calendar. Further east in India, Hindus celebrates Nag Panchami, a day when snakes are venerated for their power over the rains. In ancient Greece they could be found in many medical symbols, such as the Rod of Asclepius, which is still used today. In ancient Egypt the Egyptian Cobra adorned the crown of the Pharaoh. Representing sin in Christianity, other cultures and religions view snakes more highly. Snakes have evoked love and hatred among humans for thousands of years. Some snakes, such as pythons also have heat sensing pits above their lips which allow them to see warm blooded creatures the same as an infrared camera would be able to. Flicking out their tongue, they are able to taste particles in the air these chemicals are then processed by the Jacobson’s organ and allow the snakes to visualise their surroundings. Relying on sight, smell, and vibrations, smell is their strongest sense. Australia’s deadly and mysterious taipan. ![]()
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