black snakes

A common rhyme meant to distinguish venomous coral snakes from harmless ones often leads to the tragic killing of scarlet kingsnakes. These beautiful, non-venomous snakes share similar vibrant patterns with coral snakes, causing panic. While coral snakes are dangerous, scarlet kingsnakes are beneficial, preying on other snakes, including venomous species. Hikers are urged to observe patterns carefully to avoid misidentification.

Black mambas and green mambas are often confused but live very different lives. The black mamba is not black but has a dark mouth. It is large and ground-dwelling, preferring open savannas. Green mambas are slender, arboreal, and blend with trees. Black mambas are defensive, while green mambas avoid confrontation.

The red-bellied black snake, common on Australia's east coast, is venomous but not typically aggressive, preferring to retreat. Identification relies on recognizing its glossy black body with a distinct red or pinkish belly, a slightly bulky build, and its preference for humid, water-adjacent habitats. Juvenile snakes can be harder to identify, so caution is always advised.

Garter snakes are easily identified by their prominent body stripes, typically three in number, running lengthwise. These harmless, diurnal reptiles are slender, measuring 2-4 feet, with round pupils and keeled scales. They inhabit diverse environments near water and are often mistaken for ribbon snakes, which are more slender with brighter coloration and a white patch before the eye.

Australia's "king brown snake" is often a mulga, a massive reptile reaching up to 3 meters. These snakes possess a distinctive wide head and robust body, with coloration varying from tan to black depending on region. Crucially, mulga venom requires black snake antivenom, not brown snake antivenom, making identification vital for safety.

Copperhead snakes, often feared for their venom, are masters of camouflage and surprisingly social creatures. Their distinctive hourglass markings aid in concealment. While their bite requires medical attention, it's rarely fatal to healthy adults. Understanding their timid nature and habitat preferences can foster coexistence, turning fear into respect for these vital reptiles.

Harmless keelback snakes, recently documented in India's remote sanctuaries, boast a unique appearance with signature keeled ridges along their scales. These slender, semi-aquatic reptiles, often found near water bodies, are crucial indicators of healthy ecosystems. Their distinctive rough texture and varied color patterns help them camouflage effectively, setting them apart from venomous counterparts.

Snakes may not see faces, but they certainly have an acute sense of smell that allows them to recognize humans based on scent. This fundamental aspect of their sensory perception helps them to distinguish between known handlers and new individuals, thus influencing their behavior.

Australia's Inland Taipan, dubbed the 'fierce snake,' boasts a slender two-meter frame and a small, inconspicuous head. Its coloration shifts seasonally, from dark brown in winter to olive-tan in summer. Despite its potent neurotoxic venom, this shy reptile prefers to flee, inhabiting arid Australian regions. Accurate identification relies on scale patterns and its restricted habitat.

Astrologer Ashok Kharat faces mounting legal trouble with 12 FIRs in Nashik and more across districts. A recent complaint alleges he extorted ₹8.8 crore by instilling fear of his parents' death. Investigations revealed alleged deceitful practices, including using a toy snake and engaging in lewd behaviour at his farmhouse.