Senses
Snakes probably don’t see color. Many are near-sighted, included the vipers and all the burrower. Tree snakes, rat snakes and the king cobra all have good vision and can see you coming from quite far away. Some sea snakes have light sensors in their tail. Snakes can smell with their nostrils but they rely mainly on the combination of their sensitive tongue and the jacobson’s organ in roof of the mouth
The heat sensitive “pits” between the nostrils and the eye in pit vipers can detect temperature change as slight as three thousands of a degree Centigrade (0.003 deg.c)
Pits are very helpful in finding warm-blooded rodents or birds or even slightly warm frog or toad on a cool dark night. Pythons have similar infrared receptors along their upper lips.
Snakes can actually “hear” very low frequency sounds in the 200 to 500 Hz range.
They have no ears or eardrums but low sounds that hit the side of the skull are transferred to the inner ear through the jaw muscle and ear bone.
They cannot hear sounds like talking, music or a gunshot. Snakes are sensitive to vibrations through the ground and in this way can feel you walking past.
Feeding
Medium- sized and large snakes like cobras, rat snakes, trinket snakes and royal snakes relish rodents.
While tree snakes like the bronzebacks and vine snakes go for eat to lizards, birds, and frogs
Snakes also eat bats, frog eggs, snails and slugs while some are snake- eater.While giant pythons can kill eat a deer or even a wild pig
Venomous snakes have evolved a cocktail of protein, toxin, and digestive enzymes into an injectable venom to deal sudden death to their prey. Many “non-venomous” snakes actually have toxic saliva with which to subdue prey. Others like pythons and trinket snakes use constriction to suffocate theirs. For some, like the water snakes and rat snakes, hunting technique is simple: grab and swallow, before the prey can get away.
Breeding
About 60 species or approximately 25% of Indian snakes are ovoviviparous, that is, eggs develop internally and females bear live young. Livebearers include the shieldtail snakes, sand boas, vine snakes, estuarine snakes, most sea snakes, most vipers and most pit vipers.
All the rest of India’s snakes are egg layers. It is not clear which of these methods is more successful, but some snakes like the cobras, both pythons, the checkered keelback and the king cobra stay with their eggs for the two months it takes them to hatch, providing safety for their clutch from predators.
But in egg layers and livebearers alike, parent snakes do not look after their young-baby snakes have to find their food and watch out for predators all on their own.
About Snakes:
Have a pair of enlarged teeth, the fangs, at the front of their upper jaw
Fangs
- Grooved
- Hollow
Venom channel injects subcutaneously or intramuscularly
Non-Venomous species around us :
Common Rat Snake
Green Tree Vine Snake
Checkered Keel Back
Bronze Back Tree Snake
Red Sand Boa
Common Sand Boa
Common Wolf Snake
Trinket
Reticulated Python
Indian Rock Python
Non Venomous Snakes
Indian rat snake - (Ptyas mucosa)
Description:
Scales smooth or upper rows distinctly keeled. Head broader than neck. Large eye has round pupil. Varies greatly in color. Pale yellow, olive brown, grey, black. Body lightly or strongly marked with black; markings usually distinct on tail. Lip scales usually separated by vertical black lines. Underside often has prominent dark bands.
Natural History / Behavior
Very fast and alert, active, diurnal hunter. Climbs well. Inhabits a wide range of habitats-coastal, arid, wet, mountainous, open fields as well as forest. Rat holes and termite mounds are preferred dwellings. Seen in paddy fields, tall grass, trees, storage places, and houses. Feeds on frogs, toads, lizards, birds, rats, bats, snakes and in one case young tortoise. Rat snakes do not constrict but subdue larger prey by holding it down. Pressure is applied until the animal is still. Smaller prey is simply swallowed alive. Clutches of 8-22 eggs usually laid between March- September(sometimes in winter months).
Usually quick to escape. If cornered, will inflate throat and forebody, emit a moan or growl, and strike vigorously. Large rat snakes can inflict painful (though harmless) bites, but calm down with gentle handling.
At hatching 320-470mm (13-19in)
Adults 2000mm (79in)
Maximum 3500mm (138in)
Green Tree Vine Snake – (Ahaetulla nasuta)
Description:
Long, slender, smooth-scaled. Extremely pointed head has extended snout; large eye has horizontal pupil. Tail long. Uniform parrot –green (rarely yellow, brown or pink) back, often with a thin white or yellow line separating upper body scales from belly scales. Underside usually light green yellow (rarely grey, pink or rose- red). The snout tip tapers to a point. When viewed from above, it usually consists of a single scale which is grooved in the middle; rarely there are a few tiny scales at base of the scale. (In Brown Vine Snake the snout tip is slightly swollen, has no groove in the middle and is covered by several small scales).
Natural History / Behavior
Diurnal, usually seen on low bushes or trees, rarely on the ground. Feeds mainly on lizards, frogs, small birds and mice. One was see eating tadpoles, another swallowing a shieldtail snake. In Sri lanka, seen catching and eating fish. Rear-slanged. Mild venom can paralyze small prey. Up to 23 young are born in March-December. The female simply drops the babies wherever she is. If provoked, will open mouth and inflate neck and body to reveal black and white interscale color.
At birth 200-425mm (8-17in)
Adults 1000mm (39in)
Maximum 2000mm (79in)
Bronze back tree snake - (Dendrelaphis tristis)
Description:
Long, slender, smooth-scaled, head distinctly broader than neck; snout bluntly rounded. Large eye has round pupil. Tail have long, thin and wire- like. Belly scales and those under tail have outer edges sharply folded upward (keel). Bronze- brown or purplish- brown back with a dark brown or black strips on either side of body. Indistinct black streak behind eye. Underside usually white, grey or pale green. Young similar to adults but tongue.(A very similar looking species, the Painted Bronze back Dendrelaphis pictus, has a bright red tongue). This is a useful filed identification character. However, identification must be confirmed by examining the maxillary (upper jaw) teeth.
Natural History/ behavior
Diurnal. Arboreal; inhabits low bushes, thorn tree, Indian date palms, and palmyra. Feeds on frogs, garden lizards, gecoks, and small birds, even entering thatched houses to feed. Extremely fast. Notched, sharply define edges of belly scales help it climb. Can leap from branch. Females lay 6-8 long, thin eggs (around April) in tree holes and rotting vegetation. Nervous disposition. If cornered, some will show light blue/white color at lower edge of each scale.
At hatching 150mm (6in)
Adults 1000mm(39in)
Maximum 1690mm (67in)
Checkered keelback - ( Xenochrophis piscator)
Description:
Scales keeled. Head broader than neck. Eye has round pupil. Two bold black streaks one below, the other from eye to angle of mouth. Glossy olive green, olive brown, yellow, brown, gray or black, usually with a checkered body pattern. Pattern may vary from light marked to bold, black, closely set spots or checks. Region between “checks’’ sometimes marked with varying shades of pink or red. Underside glossy white or yellowish- white.
Natural History/ behavior
Active by day night. Found in and around freshwater bodies and paddy fields. Perhaps the most plentiful snake in India. Many are killed on roads after the first rains arrive. Young feed on frog eggs, tadpoles, and water insects; older snakes eat , fish, frogs, occasionally rodents and birds. Lays upto 90 eggs in December-March in rat tunnels, holes in wells, walls or fields embankments, and stays with them until they hatch in 60-70 days. Aggressive when threatened or cornered. Though they bite readily when stepped on or caught, we have swum in ponds inhabited by checkered keelbacks without ever being bitten. When excited, flattens head, extend neck ribs, and rears up. Sometimes mistaken for a cobra in this position.
At hatching 125-215mm (5-9in)
Adults 600mm(24in)
Maximum 1750mm (69in)
Red sand Boa - (eryx johnii)
Description:
Thick bodied. Scales weakly keeled (but smooth to the touch). Head not broader then neck.,
with a wide shovel-shaped scaled at the tip of the stout. Eyes small but distinct., has vertical pupils-(unlike diards worm snakes, whose eyes is visible as a black dot). very blunt tailed with rounded tip resembles the head-giving rise to the mis-believe that it has two heads. Color variable, reddish brown, dark brown, speckled grey, yellow or black, sometimes with a black-banded tail. Belly white, spotted with brown or entirely brown. (the tail of Diard’s worm snakes ends in a small spine)
Natural History/ behavior
Nocturnal. Prefers dry places & sandy soil. Often lives in rodent burrows. Diet and method of killing prey similar to that of the common sand boa. Also eats other snakes. Females bear 6-8 live young with distinctly banded tails, (bodies sometimes banded too), around June usually very docile.
At birth 220mm (9in)
Adults 750mm (30in)
Maximum 1000 (39in)
Common sand Boa (gongylophis conicus)
Description:
Short and thick bodied. Scales of head and tail strongly keeled (sometimes tubercled) small eye has vertical pupils, tail very short, color variable. Reddish brown, yellowish white, dark brown or black with large irregular usually dark brown, black edged blotches that are connected on the back. Underside yellowish white. Young sandboa can be mistaken for saw scaled vipers, adults for russels viper or pythons.
Natural History/ behavior
Mainly nocturnal but will hunt by day. Feeds on insects, lizards, snakes, birds and rodents. Kills most prey by constriction. Hunts actively in rodent burrows. will also by ambush-by burrying itself until a bird or lizard comes within striking distance. Females bear 6-8 live young in may to July. When disturbed, common sand boa can thrash about flattened their body and strike like a viper.
At hatching 125mm (5in)
Adults 500mm (20in)
Maximum 1000mm (39in)
Common wolf snake (Lycodon aulicus )
Description:
Slender-bodied; smooth-scaled. Flattened head slightly broader than neck; snout broad, project beyond lower jaw. Eye entirely black. Glossy gray, brown or black above, usually with 10-20 narrow white or yellow bands that fork and sides of body. Neck usually has whitish or yellowish collar. Bands most distinct on forebody and either faint entirely absent on hind body. Upper lip white or spotted with brown. Underside white. Some individuals are entirely unbanded. Often mistaken for the common krait (which has enlarged hexagonal vertebral scales), other species of wolf snake or the rare bridal snakes
Natural History/ behavior
Strictly nocturnal. found in around caves, wells, stone piles, hollow tree and often in houses. Climbs rough vertical walls with ease. Adults eat geckos and skinks. Lays 5 to 7 eggs in December to January in the Chennai region. March to July in north India. Nervous, usually bites if handled.
At hatching 140mm (6in)
Adults 3000mm (12in)
Maximum 800mm (32in)
Trinket – (Coelognathus helenus)
Description:
Slender-bodied. Midbody scales smooth, those on hind body and tail sometimes weakly keeled. Tan or olive, and chocolate brown with two black stripes on neck and light band and/or checks on forebody; hind body has two prominent dark brown or black stripes that continue onto tail; belly pearl white.
Natural History/ behavior
Active by day and night. In summer this species is found in termite mounds, rock piles and crevices. During cooler months, it may be seen on leafy trees and bushes. Often seen near, or in human habitation. Prefers rats, mice, and squirrels but also eats lizards, frogs and snakes. Lays 6-12 eggs(year round in warmer parts of rang). When excited, coils forebody into a series of near vertical S shaped loops and opens mouth; may also strike repeatedly.
At hatchlings 250mm (10in)
Adults 700mm (28in)
Maximum 1680mm (66in)
Reticulated Python – Python reticulatus
Description:
Adults large, thick-bodied, smooth-scaled. Eye has vertical pupil. Large, differently shaped scales on top of head. Thin black line running along middle of head and another from eye to angle of mouth distinguish it from the Indian rock python and the Burmese python. Pale brown or yellowish above with a series of large brown oval or squarish “pixellated ” marks that touch or join to form a wide zigzag pattern. Each mark margined with black and yellow; extends onto the sides of the body to enclose a white spot. Freshly moulted individuals are beautifully iridescent. Old snakes generally darker and duller. Underside yellowish.
Natural History/ behavior
Though mainly terrestrial, a good climber. Mostly nocturnal and semi-aquatic. Found in humid forests. Feeds mostly on mammals, sometimes birds and large lizards. Contrary to popular belief, very rarely eats people. Recorded eating 80% own body weight in captivity . Constricts prey. Lays 50-124 eggs in April-May, which take 60-101 days to hatch depending on incubation temperature. Though females guard eggs by coiling around them, unlike the Indian Rock python, they seem unable to raise clutch temperature by muscular contractions.
At hatching 550-750mm (22-30in)
Adults 3000-6000mm (118-236in)
Maximum 1000mm (394in)
Indian Rock Python (Python molurus molurus)
Description:
Thick-bodied, smooth-scaled , head broader than neck, eye has vertical pupil, scale at stout tip & first to upper lip scales have heat sensitive pits. Upper surface of head has large scales of different shapes and size. Yellowish to brown with asymmetrical dark brown, black edged blotches. Tip of arrow head mark on head indistinct in adults. Tongue and parts of head, pale pink, two dark streaks on side from head one below, the other through/ behind eye. Underside white or yellowish (russels viper has keeled scales and a pattern similar in color, symmetrical blotches that are either with oval with pointed ends, or round also, the upper head scales are small)
Natural History/ behavior
Nocturnal, inhabit estuarine mangrove forest, arid scrub jungles, rainforest, grasslands. Though adaptable, rock python need large, undisturbed areas to hunt & hide in. as these get scarce, so do these snakes prey is mainly warm-blooded (Rodents, Fruit Bats, Birds, Jackals, Civets, deer and wild boar). The pits (Slits) on the rostral (Snout scale) and upper lip scales sends warmth & helps the snake hunt. Females lay up to 107 eggs in march to June & remain coiled on them for 60-80 days. Muscular body contraction raise temperature a little to help incubate the eggs.
At hatching 500mm (20in)
Adults 3000mm (118in)
Maximum 7620mm (67in)
Commonly Seen Venomous Species
The "Big Four" are the four snake which are responsible for the majority of human deaths as a result of snakebites in Asia
Spectacled Cobra
Russell’s Viper
Common Krait
Saw Scaled Viper
&
The King Cobra
Spectacled Cobra - (Naja naja)
Species of the genus Naja found in the Indian subcontinent. A member of the "big four” is revered in Indian mythology and culture, often seen with snake charmers
On the rear of the snake's hood are two circular ocelli patterns connected by a curved line, evoking the image of spectacles. An average cobra is about 1.9 meters (6 feet) in length and rarely as long as 2.4 meters.
The most distinctive and impressive characteristic of the Indian cobra is the hood which it forms, when it is threatened. The spectacle pattern on the hood varies greatly, as does the overall colour of the snake
The Oriental Ratsnake Ptyas mucosus is often mistaken for the cobra; however this snake is much longer and can easily be distinguished by the more prominent ridged appearance of its body.
Life Cycle
Habitat
The Indian cobra is native to the Indian subcontinent which includes present day Pakistan, India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. It can be found in plains, jungles, open fields and the regions heavily populated by people. Its distribution ranges from sea-level up to 2000m. Cobras normally feed on rodents, toads, frogs, birds and other snakes. Its diet of rats leads it to areas inhabited by humans including farms and outskirts of urban areas
Reproduction
Indian cobras are oviparous and lay their eggs between the months of April and July. The female snake usually lays from 10 to 30 eggs in rat holes or termite mounds and the eggs hatch 48 to 69 days later. Newborn cobras measure between 8 and 12 inches (20–30 cm). The young when hatched are exact replicas of the parents and have fully functional venom glands.
Venom
Mainly contains a powerful post-synaptic neurotoxin and cardiotoxin. The venom acts on the synaptic gaps of the nerves, thereby paralyzing muscles, In severe bites leading to respiratory failure or cardiac arrest. The venom components include enzymes such as hyaluronidase that cause lysis and increase the spread of the venom. Envenomation symptoms may manifest between 15 minutes to 2 hours following the bite and can be fatal in an hour in severe cases of envenomation
Russell's viper - (Daboia russelii)
Daboia is a monotypic genus of venomous Old World viper. The single species, D. russelii, is found in Asia throughout the Indian subcontinent, much of Southeast Asia, southern China and Taiwan
Daboia is also one of the species responsible for causing the most snakebite incidents and deaths among all venomous snakes on account of many factors,such as their wide distribution and frequent occurrence in highly-populated areas.
It can grow to a maximum length of 166 cm (5.5 ft) , averages about 120 cm (4 ft) on mainland Asian populations, although island populations do not attain this size. The body is stout, the cross-section of which is rounded to cylindrical. It is more slenderly built than most other vipers. The crown of the head is covered with irregular, strongly fragmented scales. The eyes are large, flecked with yellow or gold. There are two pairs of chin shields, the front pair of which are notably enlarged. The two maxillary bones support at least two and at the most five or six pairs of fangs at a time: the first are active and the rest replacements. The fangs attain a length of 16 mm in the average specimen. The color pattern consists of a deep yellow, tan or brown ground color, with three series of dark brown spots that run the length of its body. Each of these spots has a black ring around it, the outer border of which is intensified with a rim of white or yellow
Life Cycle
Habitat
Found in Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, China. The type locality is listed as "India". More specifically, this would be the Coromandel Coast, It is not restricted to any particular habitat, but does tend to avoid dense forests. The snake is mostly found in open, grassy or bushy areas, but may also be found on forested plantations and farmland
They are most common in plains, coastal lowlands and hills of suitable habitat. Generally not found at altitude, but has been reported as far up as 2300–3000 m. Humid environments, such as marshes, swamps and rain forests, are avoided. This species is often found in highly urbanized areas and settlements in the countryside, the attraction being the rodents commensal with man
As a result, those working outside in these areas are most at risk of being bitten. It should be noted, however, that D. russelii does not associate as closely with human habitation as Naja and Bungarus (cobras and kraits)
Behavior
Terrestrial and active primarily as a nocturnal forager. during cool weather it will alter its behavior and become more active during the day. Adults are reported to be persistently slow and sluggish unless pushed beyond a certain limit, after which they become aggressive. Juveniles, on the other hand, are generally more nervous. When threatened they form a series of S-loops, raise the first third of the body and produce a hiss that is supposedly louder than that of any other snake. When striking from this position, they can exert much force that even a large individual can lift most of its body off the ground in the process. These snakes are strong and may react violently to being picked up. The bite may be a snap, or they may hang on for many seconds. Although this genus does not have the heat-sensitive pit organs common to the Crotalinae, it is one of a number of viperines
Preying
It feeds primarily on rodents, especially murid species. However, they will eat just about anything, including rats, mice, shrews, squirrels, land crabs, scorpions and other arthropods. Juveniles are crepuscular, feeding on lizards and foraging actively
As they grow and become adults, they begin to specialize in rodents. Indeed, the presence of rodents is the main reason they are attracted to human habitation. Juveniles are known to be cannibalistic
Reproduction
This species is ovoviviparous, Mating generally occurs early in the year. The gestation period is more than six months. Young are produced from May to November, but mostly in June and July. Litters of 20–40 are common, The reported maximum is 65 in a single litter. At birth, juveniles are 215–260 mm in length. The minimum length for a gravid female is about 100 cm. It seems that sexual maturity is achieved in 2–3 years
Venom
In general, the toxicity depends on a combination of five different venom fractions, each of which is less toxic when tested separately. Envenomation symptoms begin with pain at the site of the bite, immediately followed by swelling of the affected extremity. Bleeding is a common symptom, especially from the gums and in the urine.
Kidney failure (renal failure) also occurs in approximately 25-30 percent of untreated bite. Early medical treatment and early access to antivenom can prevent and drastically reduce the chance of developing the severe/potentially lethal complications.
Severe pain may last for 2–4 weeks. Locally, it may persist depending on the level of tissue damage. Often, local swelling peaks within 48–72 hours, involving both the affected limb and the trunk. If swelling up to the trunk occurs within 1–2 hours, massive envenomation is likely.
Discoloration may occur throughout the swollen area as red blood cells and plasma leak into muscle tissue. Death from septicaemia, kidney, respiratory or cardiac failure may occur 1 to 14 days post-bite or even later.
Common Krait - Bungarus caeruleus
A species of genus Bungarus found in the jungles of the Indian subcontinent. It is a member of the "big four", species inflicting the most snakebites in India.
The body colour varies from a dark steely blue-black to a pale faded bluish grey. The average length is 0.9 meters (2 ft 11 in) but they can grow to 1.75 meters (5 ft 9 in). The narrow white cross bands are more prominent near the tail region. The male is larger than the female and also has a longer tail. It occurs throughout South India and Sri Lanka at elevations up to about 1600 metres
Life Cycle
Habitat
Inhabits a wide variety of habitat in its range. It is found in fields, low scrub jungle as well as inhabited areas. They are known to take up residency in termite mounds, brick piles, rat holes and also inside houses. It is fond of water and is frequently found in it or within proximity to a water source.
Behaviour
Behavioral differences during day and nighttime have been reported in Bungarus caeruleus. During the day it is sluggish and rolls its body into a loose coiled ball, keeping its head well-concealed. In balled condition, the snake allows considerable handling, however, over handling often instigates bites. At night the snake is very active, escapes by hissing loudly, or keeping still, occasionally biting the source of the annoyance.
When agitated, it will coil up with head concealed, body flattened, and make jerky movements. May also lift its tail. Reluctant to bite, but when it does bite, it typically bites and holds on for awhile, which enables it to inject considerable amounts of venom
Generally docile and unaggressive during the day, it may become aggressive at night if threatened.
Preying
These snakes prey on other snakes, lizards, frogs, rats, and mice. They will devour their young being cannibalistic in nature. Young are known to eat arthropods. the common krait feeds primarily on other snakes, including "blind worms" (snakes of the genus Typhlops) and other kraits, and also feeds on frogs and lizards and small mammals.
Venom
The Indian krait's venom consists mostly of powerful neurotoxins which induce muscle paralysis. Clinically, its venom contains pre-synaptic and post-synaptic neurotoxins. These neurotoxins generally affect the nerve endings near the synaptic cleft of the brain. Kraits are nocturnal and seldom encounter humans during daylight hours, so incidents are rare. There is frequently little or no pain from a krait bite and this can provide false reassurance to the victim.
Typically, victims complain of severe abdominal cramps, accompanied by progressive paralysis. Once bitten, the absorption of the venom into the victim can be considerably delayed by applying a pressure bandage to the bite site and immobilizing the area.
As there are no local symptoms, a patient should be carefully observed for signs of paralysis and treated urgently with antivenom. Death occurs approximately 6–8 hours after the krait bite. Cause of death is general respiratory failure, i.e. suffocation
Often in rainy season the snakes come out of their hiding places and find refuge on dry places inside a house. If bitten by it in sleep the victim seldom comes to know as the bite feels more like an ant bite or a mosquito bite. The victim may be dead before he even wakes up.
Saw-scaled viper - E. carinatus
Echis is a genus of venomous vipers found in the dry regions of Africa, the Middle East, Pakistan, India and Sri Lanka. They have a characteristic threat display, rubbing sections of their body together to produce a "sizzling" warning sound. The name Echis is a Greek word that means "viper. They are one of the species which are responsible for causing the most snakebite cases and deaths in the world
Life Cycle
Habitat
Relatively small in size with adults never larger than about 90 cm (35 in.) in length. The head is short, wide, pear-shaped and distinct from the neck. The snout is short and rounded, while the eyes are relatively large and set well forward.
The crown is covered with small, irregular, imbricate scales, which may be either smooth or keeled. The body is moderately slender and cylindrical. Found in Pakistan, India and Sri Lanka, parts of the Middle East and Africa north of the equator
Behaviour
All members of this genus have a distinctive threat display, which involves forming a series of parallel C-shaped coils and rubbing them together to produce a sizzling sound. The proper term for this is stridulation. As they become more agitated, this stridulating behavior becomes faster and louder
These snakes can be fierce and will strike from the position described above. When doing so, they may overbalance and end up moving towards their aggressor as a result; most unusual behavior for a snake
Preying
Little is known about the eating habits of some Echis species. For others the diet is reported to be extremely varied, and may include items such as locusts, beetles, worms, slugs, spiders, scorpions, centipedes, solifugids, frogs, toads, reptiles (including other snakes), small mammals and birds
Reproduction
Most Echis species, such as those found in Africa, are oviparous, while others, such as those in India, are viviparous
Venom
The venom of Echis species consists mostly of haemotoxin. Most victims are bitten after dark when these snakes are active. Most of these species have venom that contains factors that can cause a consumption coagulopathy and defibrination which may persist for days to weeks. This may result in bleeding anywhere in the body, including the possibility of an intracranial hemorrhage. Venom from females was more than twice as toxic on average than venom from males. The most venom is produced during the summer months and males produce more than females
King Cobra - Ophiophagus hannah
The king cobra (Ophiophagus hannah) is the world's longest venomous snake, with a length up to 5.6 m (18.5 ft). This species, which preys chiefly on other snakes, is found predominantly in forests from India through Southeast Asia to the Philippines and Indonesia. Despite the word "cobra" in its name, this snake is not a member of Naja ("true cobras") but belongs to its own genus
Life Cycle
Habitat
The king cobra is the sole member of genus Ophiophagus, while most other cobras are members of the genus Naja. They can be distinguished from other cobras by size and hood marks
King cobras are generally larger than other cobras, and the stripe on the neck is like the symbol "^" instead of a double or single eye shape(s) that may be seen in most of the other Asian cobras
A foolproof method of identification is if on the head, clearly visible, the presence of a pair of large scales is known as occipitals, at the back of the top of the head. The king cobra averages at 3 to 4 meters (9.8 to 13 ft) in length and typically weighing about 6 kilograms (13 lb). The longest known specimen was kept captive at the London Zoo, and grew to around 18.5 to 18.8 feet (5.6 to 5.7 m). The heaviest wild specimen was caught at Royal Island Club in Singapore in 1951 which weighed 12 kilograms (26 lb) and measured 4.8 meters (16 ft), (heavier captive specimen was measured as 12.7 kilograms (28 lb) at 4.4 meters (14 ft) long in 1972). Despite their large size, typical king cobras are fast and agile. The skin of this snake is either olive-green, tan, or black, and it has faint, pale yellow cross bands down the length of the body. The belly is cream or pale yellow, and the scales are smooth. Juveniles are shiny black with narrow yellow bands (can be mistaken for a banded krait, but readily identified with its expandable hood). Two short, fixed fangs in the front of the mouth which channel venom into the prey like hypodermic needles. The male is larger and thicker than the female. The average lifespan of a wild king cobra is about 20 years. The king cobra is distributed across South Asia, Southeast Asia, and the southern areas of East Asia (southern China) where it is not common. It lives in dense highland forests, preferring areas dotted with lakes and streams. King cobra populations have dropped in some areas of its range because of the destruction of forest.
Behaviour
King cobras, like other snakes, receive chemical information ("smell") via their forked tongues. It also uses its keen eyesight (able to detect moving prey almost [300 feet] away), intelligence and sensitivity to earth-borne vibration to track its prey
Following envenomation, the king cobra will begin to swallow its struggling prey while its toxins begin the digestion of its victim. King cobras are able to hunt at all times of day, although it is rarely seen at night, leading most herpetologists to classify it as a diurnal species
Preying
Ophiophagus (Greek derived word ) means "snake-eater”. its diet consists primarily of other snakes, including ratsnakes, small pythons and even other venomous snakes (Cobra, Krait Families)
When food is scarce, they may also feed on other small vertebrates, such as lizards, birds, and rodents. After a large meal, the snake may live for many months without another one because of its slow metabolic rate. The king cobra's most common meal is the rat snake; pursuit of this species often brings king cobras close to human settlement.
Defense
When confronted this species will quickly attempt to escape and avoid any sort of confrontation. When threatened, it rears up the anterior portion of its body when extending the neck, showing the fangs and hissing loudly. When raising its body, the king cobra can still move forward to strike and the attack range can be as far as 2 meters;
The king cobra may deliver multiple bites in a single attack but adults are known to bite and hold on, In spite of being a highly dangerous snake, it prefers to escape first unless there is no way to g.
Reproduction
The king cobra is unusual among snakes in that the female king cobra is a very dedicated parent. She makes a nest for her eggs, scraping up leaves and other debris into a mound in which to deposit them, and remains in the nest until the young hatch. A female usually deposits 20 to 40 eggs into the mound, which acts as an incubator. She stays with the eggs and guards the mound tenaciously, rearing up into a threat display if any large animal gets too close, for roughly 60 to 90 days. Inside the mound the eggs are incubated at a steady 28 °C (82 °F).
When the eggs start to hatch, instinct causes the female to leave the nest and find prey to eat so she does not eat her young. They may be brightly marked but these colours often fade as they mature. They are alert and nervous, being highly aggressive if disturbed
Venom
The venom of the king cobra consists primarily of neurotoxins, but it also contains cardiotoxic and some other compounds. Toxic constituents are mainly proteins and polypeptides
During a bite, venom is forced through the snake's 1.25 to 1.5 centimeters (0.49 to 0.59 in) fangs into the wound, and the toxins begin to attack the victim's central nervous system
Symptoms may include severe pain, blurred vision, vertigo, drowsiness, and paralysis. Envenomation progresses to cardiovascular collapse, and the victim falls into a coma. Death soon follows due to respiratory failure. Moreover, king cobra envenomation is clinically known to cause renal failure. This species is capable of delivering a large quantity of venom, injecting a dose anywhere from 200-500 milligrams on average and can up to 7ml. it can still deliver a bite which can potentially kill a human due to the massive amount of venom it delivers in a single bite.
Death can occur as early as 30 minutes after being bitten (rare as most untreated bite victims in Asia live through their bites, usually because the vast majority of bites involve non-fatal amounts of venom). Death can occur as early as 30 minutes after being bitten (rare as most untreated bite victims in Asia live through their bites, usually because the vast majority of bites involve non-fatal amounts of venom)
Constituents of Snake Venom
Snake venoms contain more than 20 different constituents,
- Proteins, including enzymes and polypeptide toxins
- Procoagulant enzymes (Viperidae)
- Haemorrhagins
- Cytolytic or necrotic toxins
- Phospholipases
- Pre-synaptic neurotoxins
- Post-synaptic neurotoxins
Quantity of venom injected at a bite
- Highly variable, depending on
- The species and size of the snake,
- The mechanical efficiency of the bite
- Whether one or two fangs penetrated the skin
- Whether there were repeated strikes
- The snake may be able to control whether or not venom is injected
Dry bites
A proportion of bites do not result in the injection of venom. About 50% of bites by Malayan pit vipers and Russell’s vipers, 30% of bites by cobras and 5-10% of bites by saw-scaled vipers are dry bites. Large snakes tend to inject more venom than smaller specimens of the same species. But the venom of smaller, younger vipers may be richer in some dangerous components, such as those affecting haemostasis.
Early Symptoms and Signs
- Increasing local pain (burning, bursting, throbbing) at the site of the bite
- Local swelling that gradually extends proximally up the bitten limb and tender painful enlargement of the Regional Lymph nodes.
- However, bites by kraits and sea snakes may be virtually painless.
Symptoms and Signs
- Local pain
- Local bleeding
- Bruising
- Lymphangitis
- LN Enlargement
- Blistering
- Local infection & Abscess formation
- Necrosis
First aid treatment
- First aid treatment is carried out immediately or very soon after the bite, before the patient reaches a dispensary or hospital
- It can be performed by the snake bite victim himself/herself or by anyone else who is present.
Aims of First aid
- To retard systemic absorption of venom
- Preserve life and prevent complications before receiving medical care
- Control distressing early symptoms
- Arrange the transport to a place where they can receive medical care
- Above all, do no harm
Useless or Dangerous Methods
- Making local incisions or pricks at the site of the bite or in the bitten limb
- Attempts to suck the venom out of the wound
- Use of snake stones
- Electric shock
- Topical instillation or application of chemicals, herbs or ice packs.
Recommended first aid methods
- Reassure the victim who may be very anxious
- Immobilise the bitten limb with a splint or sling (any movement or muscular contraction increases absorption of venom into the bloodstream and lymphatics)
- Consider Pressure-Immobilisation for some elapid bites
- Avoid any interference with the bite wound as this may introduce infection, increase absorption of the venom and increase local bleeding
Snakes
- The important thing to remember is to never attempt to catch or kill a snake – most snake bites occur when people are trying to do this.
- It is not necessary to try and identify the type of snake. Physicians may be able to identify the type of snake from residual venom on the skin.
- Observation of Physical Appearance of the snake will also be helpful than attempting to kill it
Pressure immobilization method
- Ideally, an elasticated, stretchy, crepe bandage, approximately 10 cm wide and at least 4.5 metres long should be used
- The bandage is bound firmly around the entire bitten limb, starting distally around the fingers or toes and moving proximally, to include a rigid splint
- The bandage is bound as tightly as for a sprained ankle, but not so tightly that the peripheral pulse (radial, posterior tibial, dorsalis pedis) is occluded or that a finger cannot easily be slipped between its layers.
- Pressure immobilization is recommended for bites by neurotoxic elapid snakes, including sea snakes but should not be used for viper bites because of the danger of increasing the local effects of the necrotic venom.
Look Alikes
Occurances of Snakes
- Snakes come out of hibernation during the warmer months of the year and in urban areas will inevitably move into, or near places where people live and work in search of food or a mate.
- Snakes may have found near Cool, dark protected areas such as under buildings and near sheds, around rubble and stored materials, and in long grass are typical areas that snakes may be found.
- As with all Indian native animals, snakes are protected under the Wildlife Act 1972 and cannot lawfully be killed or taken from the wild and held in captivity.
- It can often be difficult to tell the difference between a venomous and non-venomous snake therefore people are wise to call for professional help as snake bites can easily occur if inexperienced people interfere with snakes.
- Snakes are not usually aggressive and do not seek confrontation with humans but may retaliate if provoked.
- The important thing to remember is to never attempt to catch or kill a snake – most snake bites occur when people are trying to do this. It is not necessary to try and identify the type of snake. Physicians may be able to identify the type of snake from residual venom on the skin.
Prevention
- Minimise the food sources for snakes by removing anything that may attract rodents or frogs.
- Reduce rubbish/materials where a snake could shelter.
- During high risk times or after holiday breaks, remind staff and students of the increased risk of the presence of snakes
- Wear gloves and boots when moving stored materials and rubbish - they will give some protection.
- An increased awareness of snakes is the best protection. The snake will not be looking for you, so be alert and on the lookout for snakes
DO!
- Call 108 immediately!
- Get the victim away from the snake.
- Immobilize the bite area if on an extremity and keep it lower than the victim's heart.
- Remove rings, bracelets, watches, or restrictive clothing on the extremity with the bite. Wash the area of the bite with soap and water.
- Keep the victim warm and as comfortable as possible, and offer reassurance.
- Keep a record of the time of the bite, the victim's symptoms, and any first aid measures. Be sure to give this information to emergency medical personnel. This will help the doctor determine the severity of the bite and appropriate treatment.
- Be aware of any allergies (drug, food, animal) or existing medical conditions the victim may have.
- A positive identification of the snake is NOT necessary. Do not delay seeking immediate medical attention or risk further injury to the victim or others in an attempt to identify the snake.
DO NOT!
- Do not wait to seek medical attention until symptoms develop.
- Do not try to catch the snake! This will put yourself (and others) at risk.
- Do not apply a tourniquet to a bitten extremity. This can completely cut off blood flow and result in loss of the affected limb.
- Do not apply ice or attempt to cool the bite area.
- Do not make incisions at the bite marks and/or apply suction. This can cause further injury.
HERPETOLOGY &
ENVENOMATION
RESEARCH
PROGRAM
ENVENOMATION
RESEARCH
PROGRAM
Highlighted upshot of the project
- Availability of rare & valuable information of range of endangered scheduled species
- Attraction of the public visitors, naturalists and professionals from various parts of the world
- Promotes and creates awareness to the petrified public about the misunderstood, abandoned, frightened, threatened species, which is responsible for Human- Animal conflicts and casualties.
- Access to study of armature and professional study of Herpetology and Ophiology
- Enlightens & leads to exploration, research & documentation of the unexplored virgin wildlife sector.
- Conservation & protection through rescue rehabilitation of the mostly misunderstood abandoned creative that leaf to mitigate human causalities, Human-Wildlife conflicts & species loss.
- Rehabilitation & sustainable lively hood for snake charmer, tribal-Irulas, & gypsies as rescuers venom extraction and caretakers.
- International organization partnership & collaboration wildlife snake research study, filming, documentation and antivenom production.
NATIONAL SNAKEBITE INITIATIVE
Alleviating Rural Envenomation Crisis
Asia’s
Foremost Nonprofit
Envenomation (Snakebite) Program
every year
80,000 people
are reported as victims of snakebite and about 25,000 to 50,000 face agonizing death or permanently maimed, snakebite is considered as a disease of poor farmer & agricultural workers the down trodden of tropical developing country
like India…
The Burden of Human suffering caused by snake bites has been greatly ignored for far too long in India, it remains one of the most Neglected of all tropical ‘Diseases’, Snakebite (Envenoming) is particularly a cruel misery inflicted on many of the most impoverished Rural communities, Yet there is no other organized effort similar to "NATIONAL SNAKEBITE INITIATIVE” to Address & cope with the emergencies arising out of Snakes, Snake Attacks, Do’s & Don’s of Snakebites, Information on first aid, Envenomation Treatment Trainings, Facilities, Studies & education, especially in Developing INDIA.
Every year 80,000 people are reported as victims of snakebite and about 25,000 to 50,000 people are reported as fatal victims of Snakebite mostly from the down trodden Rural communities of developing India who lack the financial backups & basic awareness thousands of snakebite victims die, or are permanently maimed & most of them DIE without access to awareness for treatment, proper medics & treatment in India...
Snakebite is of course a DISEASE of poor FARMER & AGRICULTURAL Workers
Notable achievement is wining Recognition AWARD from INDIAN YOUTH FUND- of Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation & UN-Habitat for launching NATIONAL SNAKEBITE INITIATIVE in Erode District
NSI is India’s first recognized, foremost National level Award Winning Prime organized effort, Addressing the burden & therapeutic black hole of a Neglected tropical Disease, to Alleviate suffering of Rural Crisis through awareness on Myths, Superstitions & false beliefs of Envenomation treatment, Public health outreach promoting safety &a first aid, medical training on Envenomation Clinical therapy & emergency management for medical professionals & health workers, education for medical students, Human Snake Conflict mitigating protocols to protect both H & W further conservation education & research of endangered & misunderstood Snake species changes in its venom patterns above all promoting, accessing & initiating all relevant forms & applied Studies that helps to alleviate the Envenomation crisis & Address the lack of Medical Skill, information, platform & any improved facility for the Neglected Tropical Disease…
PURPOSE
The purpose & anticipated end result of this proposal: National Snakebite Initiative-The aim of the project is to protect & prevent deprived agricultural workers, rural children & other populace of high risk regions From Snake, Snake attack, Shock & Snakebite Emergency, & false beliefs & myths on snakebite treatment further to Alleviate the sufferings caused by Envenomation (snake bite) by providing & promoting
• Snake bite Prevention & control through Human-Wildlife Conflict Management efforts,
• Awareness Campaign on myths & fallacies concerning Snake & snakebite treatment,
• Snake safety Training Snake bite First Aid awareness, Primary Treatment Public Health promotional activities
• Primary first aid, Clinical training and Envenomation treatment training education to health workers, medical professionals, medical students & PHC-Centers.
• Snake Bite Emergency Ambulance services with Envenomation specification,
• Establishing Non Profit Envenomation Information, Treatment, Care, Study, and Training & Research Center for epidemiological & clinical research on Envenomation.
• Promoting & supporting Snake bite-related public health promotion activities & Community awareness grass root projects
• Rehabilitation & support for Rural Snake bite Victim
• Availability reliable data on Envenomation mortality through Historical survey & study on Envenomation
• Access to & promoting Study & Research on geographical variation of snake venom & Promotion & Availability of Standard affordable Anti-venom...
The total anticipated one year budget:
National Snakebite Initiative (2014)21663-$-USD
Introduction
ABOUT JKT
Social responsibility, Care for the society and Love for the livings was the prime humane thought among few youths which led them to form a small group in 1995 and helped the society in various paths, they worked with hunger and passion to serve the society, Which then took them to the honor of coming up with a Non-Profit, Non Religious Non Race organization that currently serves DIVERSIFIED LIVES in vain with its name “JEEVA KARUNYA TRUST” ensuring from its name ‘Grace and mercy to all living beings’…
MISSION of JKT
The vital mission of Jeeva karunya Trust is to “Train and implement youth in sustainable development work promoting environmental, ecological and humanitarian values and importance” towards sustainable development through the empowerment, development and welfare of Tribes, Gypsies, Youth, Women, Children, Forest, Animal’s, Wildlife, Environment, Poor Backward Societies, S.H.G’s, Small Groups, and N.G.O’s. Based on full access with advancement in Arts, Crafts, Conservation, Research, Education, Employment, Medical, Media, Human Resources, Culture And Information Exchange…
Genesis of NSI from JKT’s Activities
Social Development & Welfare:-Activities such as youth Skill Development, tribal, Child & women welfare, Livelihood & education programs are carried out beneath JEEVA KARUNYA TRUST as the parent organization,
1. Youth skill development programs sports & Arts education & promotion,
2. Tribal Livelihood trainings,
3. Youth & Women Talent Search programs,
4. Women Entrepreneurship & Skill Development trainings,
5. Child & Women safety programs (Smart Positive Women)
Eco & Wildlife Development & Welfare:-Environmental & Wildlife conservation education & Research programs are carried out beneath GREEN CROSS INDIA an Eco & Wildlife Division that includes
1. Human- Wildlife Conflict management & Emergency Rescue services,
2. Eco literacy & Action Programs, Wildlife, Environmental, Sustainable organic
3. Agriculture, & Renewable Energy Conservation Based Seminars & Workshops,
4. Ecotourism & Tribal Welfare camps,
5. Eco club Facilitations & awareness creation outreach programs,
Addressing the Neglected Tropical Disease:- The project is targeted to address the emergency, therapeutic black hole & total ignorance on the NTD throughout the country as there is no other organized efforts similar to ours to address & act on the same being the foremost initiative started in Erode District our services are extended to surrounded regions and gradually expanding geographically
1. Rural Snake Safety Outreach & Campaign for Schools & colleges
2. Snake Safety Training for & Women groups & Public Service Departments
3. Snake Safety (Rescue) officer Employment Training for unemployed Tribal youth
4. Historical Envenomation Survey, at Rural & Urban Resident
5. Epidemiologic Study on Envenomation, Research on Venom & Antivenom
6. Envenomation Victim Rehabilitation Saving Rural & Urban snakebite victim
7. Foremost Envenomation Research Publication
8. Youth Motivational Award’s on Annual day program
9. Fundraising Event for Alleviating Rural Envenomation Crisis
Problems/Needs
Yet there is no
other organized effort similar to "NATIONAL SNAKEBITE INITIATIVE”
to Address & cope with the emergencies arising out of Snakes, Snakebites, Snakebite treatment, Training & information especially in
Developing INDIA…
“Medical Documents however, say over 3 -4 times higher the data of Snakebite death rate and snake bite in India. as 25,000 - 50,000”
Snakebite a Neglected Tropical Disease in 21st Century- Says: - World Health Organization...Early in 2009, snake-bite was finally included in the WHO’s list of Neglected tropical diseases confirming the experience in many parts of this region that snake-bite is a common occupational hazard of farmers, plantation workers and others, resulting in tens of thousands of deaths each year and many cases of chronic physical handicap
Envenoming snakebite is largely a neglected threat to public health. It affects mainly the poor in deprived rural areas where health facilities and are limited and anti-venoms may be hard to obtain. Training of health staff in the management of envenoming is often neglected, despite good evidence that it improves outcome. Concerted action is needed to ensure supplies of effective antivenoms and to develop systems that deliver good quality health care to snake bite victims so that we can deal effectively with this problem, which causes severe disability, brings misery to families and which kills thousands of people.
Total ignorance prevails about snakes and snakebite in India. Due to deep rooted superstitions many precious lives are lost and snakes are hounded and killed. Part of the problem is Common. People are usually not trained to deal with a snakebite emergency. Preparation, which includes knowing in advance about the basic knowledge about snakebite and how to get to the nearest hospital- could greatly reduce anxiety and lead to more effective care. The best solution is to educate people - disseminate information about snakes and snakebite - what are snakes, when and why do they bite, how to avoid getting bitten, what to do when bitten etc. as National Snakebite Initiative does to help to understand the Neglected Disease (Snakebite)
Goals/Objectives
The aim of the project is to educate, support, protect & prevent deprived agricultural workers, rural populace, children Youth & Women form Snake, Snake attack Emergency, Shock & Snakebite, further to alleviate the sufferings caused by Envenomation (snake bite) by providing treatment based information support to the High risk rural areas & snake bite safety training animal control units at high risk & rural communities & Conduct & Promote Study & Research on the Same neglected disease &promote allied studies on the geographical variation of the pattern of Venom & invention of standard & affordable Antivenoms ...
· Goal 1- Alleviate the burden & mitigate the sufferings of the Envenomation, through
o Rural Awareness & public health promotional Campaign Safety Outreach activities
o Community-based surveys
o Hospital-based Epidemiologic studies
o Establishing standard & Historical data collection
o Approaches to documenting snakebite cases
o saving the Snakebite victims with rare & timely treatment based information
o Establishing standard data collection approaches to documenting snakebite cases which is an important step that needs to be taken if future estimates of the problem around the nation
· Goal 2- Addressing the therapeutic black hole of Neglected tropical disease-Through
o Envenomation treatment Training for Medical professionals, Medical Students & Health workers
o Snakes Species Information & training programs
o Promotion of Study, Education & Research
o identification on effectiveness of antivenom with other geographically differed venom
o Study & production of Affordable standard antivenom with improved protocol
· Goal 3- Conservation & Protection of the endangered threatened species (snake) & it’s habitat,
o Initiating & promoting applicable studies on the less known species & it’s biology
o Study of the unaddressed & uncared Relocation tragedies of the rescued species
o Study on geographic variation on species biology & Venom patterns
o species Conservation through participatory governance & improved relocation strategies
o Rescue & emergencies services to Prevent Human Snake Conflict
o To Establish a H.E.R.P HErptology & Envenomation Research Platform
o Promoting Study & Education on allied to above defined objectives
Procedures/Scope of Work
About the Project: National Snake bite initiative believes that the approach to achieve these objectives involve. Establishing programs to directly impact the problems of snakebite envenoming in specific Urban &rural locations & that can be achieved through
Activity -1 - (Outreach)
a. Rural Snake Safety Campaign
b. Snake Safety Training
c. Snake Rescue officer Employment
Activity -2 - (Research & Education)
a. Envenomation Survey,
b. Envenomation Study , Education, Training & research
c. Envenomation Victim Rehabilitation
Activity -3 - (Sustainability & Reach out)
a. Research Publication
b. Youth Motivational Award’s
c. Annual day program
d. Fundraising Event
b. Outcome & Output
Over all Result & Outcome of the project
· Human animal conflict resolution at high risk regions -Rescue rehabilitation & relocation’s Targeted snakebite prevention and first aid promotion activities in specific settings and for high risk groups
· Assembly and dissemination of available information on appropriate Medical treatment of snakebite, including development of consensus protocols, treatment guidelines and training materials
· Co-ordination of epidemiological surveillance through the establishment of research networks in certain risky remote & rural areas and by deploying standardized recording, reporting and data analysis tools to enable reliable estimation of snakebite burden and resource needs;
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