The tessellated snake, also known as the common brown snake, is a fascinating reptile found in Australia. This small and slender snake has developed a unique tactic to evade its predators, making it a truly remarkable species. In this article, we will delve into the world of the tessellated snake and explore how its special adaptions have allowed it to thrive in the wild.
The tessellated snake, scientifically known as Pseudonaja affinis, is a venomous snake that is found in various habitats across Australia, from coastal areas to open woodlands. It grows to an average length of 1 to 1.5 meters, with a maximum length of 2 meters. This species has a distinct appearance, with a dark brown or blackish coloration and a series of striking yellow or orange crossbands going down its body. It also has a characteristic flattened head, which helps it to burrow through the soil easily.
What makes the tessellated snake stand out from other snakes is its unique tactic of flattening its body when threatened. When confronted by a predator, the snake will flatten its body, making it appear much larger, and raise its head off the ground in a striking position. This intimidating display of enlarged body size deters predators, making the snake less vulnerable to attacks. This behavior is known as “threat display” and is a common survival tactic in many snake species.
The threat display of the tessellated snake is enhanced by its ability to produce a loud hissing sound. This sound is produced by forcibly expelling air from its lungs and serves as an additional warning to predators. The combination of the enlarged body size and hissing sound makes the tessellated snake a formidable opponent, even to larger predators.
But the tessellated snake’s impressive defense mechanisms do not stop there. It also has neurotoxic venom, which it uses to immobilize its prey and for self-defense. Its venom is not fatal to humans, but it can cause severe pain and discomfort. Luckily, this species is not known for its aggression towards humans and will only strike if provoked or threatened.
Apart from its unique and effective defense mechanisms, the tessellated snake has other amazing adaptions that have allowed it to thrive in the wild. One of these is its ability to burrow underground. The snake is a skilled digger and will often create intricate burrows in the soil, which it uses to hide from predators and regulate its body temperature. This behavior also allows the snake to hunt for its prey, which mainly consists of small rodents and other ground-dwelling animals.
Another interesting adaptation of the tessellated snake is its ability to survive in harsh and dry environments. This species is well adapted to hot temperatures and can withstand long periods of drought. It can also tolerate a wide range of habitats, from coastal regions to arid desert areas, making it one of the most widespread snake species in Australia.
In addition to its impressive physical adaptations, the tessellated snake also plays an essential role in its ecosystem. As an apex predator, it helps to control the population of its prey, balancing the ecosystem and contributing to the overall health of the environment.
In conclusion, the tessellated snake is a remarkable species with fascinating adaptations that have allowed it to survive and thrive in the wild. Its ability to flatten its body, produce a loud hissing sound, and dig underground burrows are all crucial for its survival. By understanding and appreciating these unique traits, we can truly admire and respect the incredible abilities of this beautiful snake.