The Eastern Hognose Snake's Dramatic Defense: A Georgia Tale

A snake in Georgia has surprised with the acting skills it put on show when it was feeling threatened. Snake catcher James Dowling of Houston County Georgia Snake Removal & Relocations captured the "impressive theatrics" on camera on May 21, which has since gone viral, garnering over 230,000 views on Facebook. The star of the show is an eastern hognose snake, a native species to Georgia, USA. Dowling explained that these snakes have a unique defensive mechanism: they often pretend to be dead in hopes of making their predator lose interest. Once the situation is safe, they can flip back onto their bellies and continue their journey.

This fascinating behavior, scientifically known as thanatosis, is a well-documented survival strategy among various snake species. Eastern hognose snakes, also referred to as puff adders, are particularly known for their theatrical displays. The performance typically involves the snake writhing around frantically for a moment before lying on its back with its mouth agape and tongue out, creating a dramatic scene of apparent lifelessness.

Mark O'Shea, a professor of herpetology at the University of Wolverhampton, has noted that this behavior is based on the principle that most animals avoid eating carrion. O'Shea said, "If you’re dead, that potential predator might leave you alone." This clever tactic not only enhances the snake's chances of survival but also showcases the extraordinary adaptations of wildlife in the face of danger.

Interestingly, this act is often accompanied by defecation, which can be seen in Dowling's video. As the snake performs its dramatic writhing, the excrement can smear across its body. While the precise purpose of this behavior is still not entirely understood, it may relate to the snake's diet. Eastern hognoses have a particular fondness for toads, which secrete a defensive toxin to which these snakes are immune. Some of this toxin can end up in their feces, potentially providing an additional layer of chemical defense against predators.

As impressive as this dramatic display is, it is essential not to disturb a hognose snake if you encounter one in the wild. One observer commented, "When a hognose does this, they are literally in fear for their life. It causes an extreme amount of stress to the snake, which leads to significant energy expenditure." Eastern hognoses are typically found throughout the eastern United States and are easily identifiable by their distinct upturned snouts. They can grow to lengths of around four feet and are non-threatening to humans.

While classified as mildly venomous, their toxins are prey-specific and generally pose no harm to humans. Dowling reassured that these snakes are very reluctant to bite, so even if one were to bite him, he would not be in danger. "Like any other snake, as long as you leave them alone and give a bit of space, you’re in no harm's way," he noted.

This remarkable display of survival instinct not only captivates viewers but also serves as a reminder of the complexity of animal behavior and the delicate balance of nature. The eastern hognose snake's ability to "play dead" is a fascinating example of how species adapt to their environments to enhance their chances of survival.