Golfran
Venomous snakes found in most parts of the world. All have relatively long, hinged fangs that permit deep penetration and injection of snake venom. They are the only species of serpent to give live birth.
Basic Information
Anatomy
They have a pair of relatively long hollow fangs that are used to inject venom from glands located towards the rear of the upper jaws, just behind the eyes. Each of the two fangs is at the front of the mouth on a short maxillary bone that can rotate back and forth. When not in use, the fangs fold back against the roof of the mouth and are enclosed in a membranous sheath. This rotating mechanism allows for very long fangs to be contained in a relatively small mouth. The left and right fangs can be rotated together or independently. During a strike, the mouth can open nearly 180° and the maxilla rotates forward, erecting the fangs as late as possible so that the fangs do not become damaged, as they are brittle. The jaws close upon impact and the muscular sheaths encapsulating the venom glands contract, injecting the venom as the fangs penetrate the target. This action is very fast; in defensive strikes, it will be more a stab than a bite.
Ecology and Habitats
Their habitats vary across their nearly worldwide range. They live in mountains, temperate forests, fields, and deserts.
Dietary Needs and Habits
A nocturnal ambush predator, they mostly eat small animals like rodents, birds, and reptiles. Usually rats and mice. It is a ground dwelling sit and wait type predator, relying on coloration and markings for concealment, and wait for an animal to come within striking range.
Additional Information
Perception and Sensory Capabilities
They have specialized sensory organs near the nostrils called heat-sensing pits. The location of this organ is unique to pit vipers. These pits have the ability to detect thermal radiation emitted by warm-blooded animals, helping them better understand their environment. It creates a thermal image overlapping with their plain of sight.
Genetic Ancestor(s)
Lifespan
18 years
Average Weight
16 lbs.
Average Length
11 feet
Average Physique
Almost all Golfran have keeled scales, a stocky build with a short tail, and a triangle-shaped head distinct from the neck, owing to the location of the venom glands. The great majority have vertically elliptical, or slit-shaped, pupils that can open wide to cover most of the eye or close almost completely, which helps them to see in a wide range of light levels. Typically, Golfran are nocturnal and ambush their prey.
Body Tint, Colouring and Marking
Back color ranges from tan to brown to reddish, with distinct dark brown or black diamond shaped markings down the back. Often with yellowish coloring. Their bellies are lighter colored, from the jaw line to tail tip.
Related Organizations
Comments