Meet June's Pal of the Month... the Red Bellied Black Snake!
Known for its glossy black scales and striking red underbelly, the red-bellied black snake is a familiar sight in the wetlands and forests of eastern Australia. This adaptable reptile makes its home near various water sources, where it hunts frogs, fish, and small mammals. The sometimes even eat other snakes! Unlike other black snakes, the red-bellied black snakes give birth to live young.
It was the first venomous snake discovered by western science, although it was originally classed as non-venomous. While venomous, these snakes are generally shy and non-aggressive. If cornered, however, the red-bellied black snake will flash its vibrant red belly and flatten its head, mimicking the hoods of cobras in an attempt to intimidate potential predators.
While conservationists haven't classified them as threatened yet, the red-bellied black snake faces challenges. Habitat loss and the introduction of toxic cane toads have put pressure on their numbers. Remarkably, some populations appear to be adapting: developing a tolerance to the toads' toxin and even evolving smaller heads, making it harder to swallow the larger, more dangerous ones.
Members of the Ko-fi Club will get a 3in sticker and a collectible trading card!