![]() ![]() Unlike Corals, coloration is less vivid but nonetheless distinctive enough to spot with its dark body and cream-colored strip. Like the Eyelash viper, this snake also gets its name from a distinct feature, but in this case, it’s an upturned snout reminiscent of noses found on pigs, boars and hogs. Hognose Viper (Rhino viper) (Porthidium nasutum). While victims whose bites are attended to immediately likely survive, this snake is still responsible for a majority of snake bite deaths, say herpetologists who understand this creature’s confrontational nature.ĥ. Aggressive and fearless, Fer de Lance are hard to see and harder to detect, using the element of surprise to attack. Frequently called the most-feared snake in Central America, this menacing creature delivers a fast-acting venom. Fer de Lance (Tommy Goff Yellowjaw)(Bothrops asper). Yes, there are two eyelash-like scales over each eye, but you’re best relying upon photos to verify that.Ĥ. Normally found in Belize trees, these snakes are nocturnal hunters and their color patterns are a mix of camouflage shades like olive green, brown and yellow, so they blend in nicely with surroundings. No matter how curious you happen to be, it’s never a good idea to try and spot the eyelashes on this non-aggressive snake that will nevertheless not be hesitant to spray you with venom. A powerful Maya “snake dynasty” ruled Belize 1300 years ago and perhaps these colorful snakes are a legacy the Maya left behind.ģ. ![]() They don’t seek out people, but don’t try to catch one or you’ll wind up on the front page of myriad Belize newspapers. These are sneaky creatures that are most active at night when they slither along forest floors feeding on other snakes. A close relative of the aforementioned Central American Coral, the Maya version is even more beautiful, but it can be harder to spot despite its vivid colors. Capable of reaching 45-inches in length, this snake’s colorful yellow, black and red bands make it easy to spot on forest and jungle floors.Ģ. Rather than using fangs to strike at threats like Cleopatra’s asp, Corals employ a chewing motion and sustain it long enough to inject toxic venom into its victim. You can call this snake by either of its official names, but if you run into what herpetologists call a “mild-tempered” snake, you’ll notice that their attack style is unique. Central American Coral Snake (Micrurus nigrocinctus). Agreed: They’re not going to win popularity contests, but since many of them have been around longer than you have, a little respect, please.ġ. ![]() Snakes help balance Belize’s food web, serve as a natural form of pest control and they are happy to cannibalize each other, so you don’t have to be lunch. No visit to this easy-to-reach nation would be complete without at least one jungle trek and even if you know nothing about herpetology, you know that avoiding snakebites is a goal you want to accomplish.īelize is home to lots of snakes and while the debate rages about whether the species list is 56+ (as some scientists claim) or that number is an exaggeration put forth by the snakes themselves, knowledgeable people know that a majority of these slithering serpents are more annoying than they are dangerous.īut cut these belly crawlers some slack. There’s a reason travel agents, writers and experienced tourists advise bringing a pair of sturdy boots when packing for a Belize vacation, and that recommendation has nothing to do with fashion sensibilities or style. ![]()
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