Sand Adder
| Sand Adder sand ad-er pl. sand adders | |
|---|---|
| |
| Fact File | |
| Classification: | Reptilia |
| Frequency: | Common |
| Size: | Medium |
| Lifespan: | 60-70 years |
| Domesticated?: | No |
| Diet: | Carnivore |
| Biome(s): | Desert |
The Sand Adder is a poisonous snake that can reach about 1.2m (4ft) in length at adulthood. It is the same colour as desert sands, which makes them incredibly difficult to see. It has an arrow shaped head. It will defensively curl in a ball when provoked.
Venom
Sand Adder bites are very dangerous and should be taken seriously. Their bite is quite painful, and potentially fatal if not taken care of immediately. A victim's fate is impossible to predict. Sand Adder venom contains an abundance of protein-degrading enzymes, that produce symptoms such as pain, strong local swelling and necrosis, blood loss from cardiovascular damage, and disruption of the blood clotting system. Death is usually caused by collapse in blood pressure.
Diet
They hunt anything small that they can find, which is usually rodents and other small mammals.
Behaviour
They are most active during dawn and dusk when the sands are cooler.
If you stumble onto one, make slow movements away. Anything done toward them or done quickly is perceived as a threat, and they will strike to bite. They are very hostile, and will chase you for a few feet to make sure you do not come back, but most of their aggressiveness is fear-driven. If you leave them alone, they will leave you alone.
