Exploring Belize's Mountains: Beware Of Poisonous Reptiles

Belize is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including dangerous reptiles. The mountainous areas of Belize, in particular, are known to harbour venomous snakes such as the Fer-de-Lance, which is considered one of the most poisonous snakes in the country. This snake is known for its aggressive behaviour and potent hemotoxic venom, which can cause severe health issues and even death. Other venomous snakes found in the region include the eyelash viper, the Neotropical rattlesnake, and the coral snake. While these snakes may be less aggressive, their bites can still be extremely dangerous and even fatal. Therefore, it is essential to be cautious and aware of your surroundings when exploring the mountainous regions of Belize to avoid any potential encounters with these poisonous reptiles.

The Fer De Lance snake

In Belize, the Fer De Lance snake is frequently called the most feared snake and is responsible for a majority of snakebite deaths. It is commonly found in tropical rainforests and evergreen forests and has been known to inhabit areas close to human habitations. While it is not currently a species at risk, human interactions with the Fer De Lance snake can have negative consequences due to its highly venomous bite.

The Mayan Coral Snake

The snake's neurotoxic venom is extremely dangerous and can be fatal. However, due to their shy nature, it is unlikely that a human will be bitten by a Mayan Coral Snake. Even when humans do come into contact with them, about half of their bites are 'dry', meaning no venom is injected.

The Eyelash Viper

Description

Habitat

The geographic range of the Eyelash Viper extends from southern Mexico, through Central America, to Colombia, Ecuador, and Venezuela. It is found in mesic forest, at elevations from sea level to nearly 2,640m in altitude. They prefer lower-altitude, humid, tropical areas with dense foliage, generally not far from a permanent water source. They are rarely found on the forest floor and prefer to spend most of their time on tree branches or vines. They inhabit a wide array of forested or shrubby environments, from densely wooded sea-level forests to the foothills of mountains.

Behaviour

Reproduction

Eyelash Vipers are polygynous, meaning one male mates with more than one female. Males engage in a courtship ritual called the "dance of the adders", in which they posture and intimidate one another until one is pushed away or falls. They are ovoviviparous and reproduce throughout the year in warm environments. Females carry eggs for around six months before they hatch internally, and give birth to 2-20 live young, which are independent from birth.

The Neotropical Rattlesnake

The rattlesnake is most active at dusk and in the early hours of the morning. While it is highly alert, it gives little warning before striking. However, like other rattlesnakes, it is seldom aggressive towards humans. Its diet consists mainly of rodents, and sometimes lizards.

Bites from the Neotropical Rattlesnake can result in impaired vision or complete blindness, auditory disorders, ptosis, paralysis of the peripheral muscles (especially the neck, which can become limp and lead to respiratory failure), and even life-threatening respiratory paralysis. The ocular disturbances sometimes result in permanent blindness. The rattlesnake's venom also causes damage to skeletal muscles and possibly the heart, leading to general aches, pain, and tenderness throughout the body. Acute renal failure is considered the main cause of death.

The Jumping Viper

While the Jumping Viper is a fascinating and integral part of Belize's wildlife, it is essential to respect its space and avoid any potential confrontations. By following safety guidelines and being mindful of their habitat, humans can minimise the risk of encounters and allow these vipers to continue playing their vital ecological role.

Frequently asked questions