The Eastern Hognose snake has a unique way of defending itself. So unique that a video of the "death performance" has gone viral.
Eastern Hognose snakes are found in much of the eastern United States, from Minnesota and Wisconsin south to Texas, and east to Florida and as far north as New Hampshire. They're rather common, harmless to humans, and known to do some strange things when threatened.
This video comes from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and was captured by a person who held a scientific collecting permit, and it comes with a friendly reminder that you shouldn't harass wildlife in any way, shape, or form.
But what's particularly interesting about this video is the actions the snake takes when it is threatened. Just watch, and try not to freak out too much.
Pretty incredible acting job, huh?
According to the Facebook post that the Georgia DNR shared along with the video, Eastern hognose snakes are know to "flare its neck and body by breathing in deeply and then expelling the air with an impresssssive hiss."
The next move is a forceful roll along with herky-jerky movements that make it seem like the snake is in serious pain. If that's not enough, the Eastern hognose "may also evert its cloacal vent, regurgitate its stomach contents, defecate, release musk and even bleed from its mouth." Dang, that's a well-orchestrated performance!
What would you do if you saw this happening in the wild? Feel grossed out? Pull out your phone to record it? Run for the hills?
In any case, remember that wildlife should be left alone and not bothered. But if you can observe from a safe space and distance, you can see some pretty incredible things in the great outdoors!
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