When people talk about lethal snakes, such as cobras and rattlesnakes, you’ll hear them use both the phrases ‘poisonous’ and ‘venomous’. But have you ever wondered if there’s a difference between the two terms?
Well, apparently there is, and given than most people as well the media more often than not use the phrase ‘poisonous snake’, most of the time, we’re all technically wrong.
Here’s why. (the article continues after the ad)
POISONOUS ANIMALS
According to biologists, poisonous animals are the animals that unload the toxins they carry on their skin when you eat them (or, for some, when you touch them). Examples include, frogs, salamanders, toads etc – all these animals have on their tissues chemicals strong enough to kill you, so be sure not to eat them.
VENOMOUS ANIMALS
On the other hand, venomous animals are the animals that inject their toxins by bite or sting – such as (most of the) snakes. This means that very few snakes are poisonous since most of the dangerous snakes out there, use their bite to kill you, hence they’re venomous. The exception to the rule is the garter snake (Thamnophis) which doesn’t transfer any toxin through its bite but it’s highly toxic to eat (it’s body fully absorbs the toxins of its prey).
So, now you know!
If you like what you read, then you will definitely love this one: This Is The Difference Between A Crocodile And An Alligator
Photo: Wikimedia, Wild0ne / Pixabay
Photoshop: I’m A Useless Info Junkie
Sources: The Simple Difference Between Venom and Poison | What’s the Difference Between Venomous and Poisonous? | What’s the Difference Between Poisonous and Venomous Animals?
