Everyone's heard of deep-sea angler fish, right? These are the creatures that attract prey toward them with a bioluminescent lure.
Fairly recently, this same principle was discovered in a snake. Ladies and gentlemen, meet the spider-tailed horned viper. Specifically, view the video at this link and watch its tail.
According to Wikipedia, this venomous snake lives in harsh desert conditions in Iran and uses its spider-like tail to lure in prey. When scientists described the first specimen they found, they attributed its tail configuration "to either a parasite, deformity, or tumors." Then a second specimen was found, and – whoa, Nellie – they realized this is how it catches prey.
I've never heard of this species, and I'll admit being gobsmacked. Here's a video of the snake luring in and catching a bird:
"I'm going to put this up on the blog," I enthused. "This is incredible."
"Ah, the biologist strikes again," observed Don, remarking on my past education.
The spider-tailed horned viper. Nature is amazing.
Wow Patrice. That is amazing. And creepy.
ReplyDeleteA line in an old song; "I don't like spiders and snakes, and that ain't what it takes to love me...like I wanna be loved by you." Probably a line you never said to Don.
ReplyDeleteThat's science fiction nightmare fuel right there! I, however, find it extremely cool.
Creepy and cool and the poor bird is thinking I REGRET THAT
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