Hi, Frank Indiviglio here. I’m a herpetologist, zoologist, and book author, recently retired from a career spent at several zoos, aquariums, and museums, including over 20 years with the Bronx Zoo. The dangers posed by a specific snake species depends upon a great many factors (please see below). It is clear, however, that venomous snakes are a serious health concern…according to a recent study, each year’s 4.5 million venomous snakebites result in 100,000 deaths and 250,000 permanent disabilities (figures are approximate, please see the article linked below for details). Certain large constrictors have also caused fatalities. In the course of field research in Venezuela, I observed a Green Anaconda attack a co-worker in what clearly was a feeding attempt. Please see “Further Reading”, below, to read about both this incident and a recent study of human predation by Reticulated Pythons. Today I’ll focus on the 2 most dangerous species that I’ve found most challenging as captives – the world’s largest and Africa’s longest venomous snakes, the King Cobra (Ophiophagus hannah) and the Black Mamba (Dendroaspis polylepis). Read the rest of this article here The Most Venemous Snakes: Mambas and King Cobras | That Reptile BlogThat Reptile Blog Please also check out my posts on Twitter http://bitly.com/JP27Nj and Facebook http://on.fb.me/KckP1m My Bio, with photos of animals I’ve been lucky enough to work with: That Pet Place welcomes Zoologist/Herpetologist Frank Indiviglio to That Reptile Blog | That Reptile BlogThat Reptile Blog Best Regards, Frank
Thanks, Frank. As a reptile enthusiast and a big fan of the Bronx Zoo, I really enjoy your posts. Between your posts here and the Peter Brazaitis book, I've probably heard more behind-the-scenes stories about the Bronx Reptile House than I have about any other zoo. Good stuff.
Thanks for the kind words! I know Pete well, and have learned much from him..remarkable man. The Tomistoma-Cuban Croc battle mentioned here is mentioned in Pete's book as well..he saved the day that time! If you've not read them, you might enjoy the following books on Bx Zoo history, behind the scenes stories, collecting trips etc. A gathering of Animals Zoo Expeditions My Zoo Family Wild Mammal's in Captivity A Zoo Man's Notebook Enjoy, best, Frank
