We have gone a step further in the conservation of the pit viper (Agkistrodon taylori) with the birth of four new offspring of this species, considered one of the most threatened reptiles in America due to the destruction of its natural habitat. This is the first time that the experts of the park manage to reproduce this species in captivity in the Benidorm site.
The birth of these snakes has been possible after a male viper snake arrived to Terra Natura in October 2017 to join the female that already lived in the zoo. The female had a five months pregnancy where she laid seven eggs, of which four offspring’s have been born.
The births of this species usually happen between the month of August and October. When they are born, the small snakes are totally independent, and their venom is so powerful that it can cause serious damage to large animals, even humans. The poison of this species has been part of studies to analyse its effect in the treatment of certain pathologies such as epilepsy.
Our team of experts will not be able to specify the sex of each baby snake until they are a bit bigger. This reptile detects its prey through shadows movements and light changes, also from the smell of particles that are in the environment and in the darkness through its holes. It is also known by the name of ‘four noses’ due to the four holes that it has in its face and that resemble a nose.
Of the four holes in his face, only two are nostrils, the other two are thermoreceptor holes. The holes are heat sensors that allow these animals to hunt at night and detect any prey or body of warm blood. In addition, it is known as a cantile because of its tail, because it leaves it hanging like a cliff.
The most striking colour at the end of the tail is used to attract the attention of its prey. Moves the tail as a bait to look like a worm with the aim of amphibians, lizards and rodents get confused and approach it.