1. Hydrodynastes Gigas – False Water Cobra
These snakes can flatten their necks to appear cobra-like, larger, and look more dangerous than they really are. However, they cannot prop up themselves vertically, unlike a true cobra. Interestingly, they can also flatten other parts of their bodies. This nonvenomous species feed primarily on fish, although it will also consume amphibians, reptiles, and small mammals. The False Water Cobra is a constrictor and can reach lengths of up to 8 feet.
2. Oxybelis fulgidus – Green Vine Snake
The green vine snake feeds mainly on lizards but will also eat frogs, birds, and bats. It is primarily active in the daytime, climbing trees or moving through shrubs. Green vine snakes are oviparous, meaning they lay eggs.
3. Bothriechis Schlegeli – Eyelash Viper
The Eye Lash Viper is one of the world’s most venomous snakes. Its venom can cause extensive damage to the tissues and organs; in some cases, it can even be fatal. And even though it is not typically aggressive, it will strike if threatened or provoked.
4. Corallus Caninus – Emerald Tree Boa
6. Eunectes Notaeus – Yellow Anaconda
Although experts know little about the natural history of the Yellow Anaconda, they believe it is primarily a nocturnal predator. Experts surmise that it feeds on diverse prey, including fish, amphibians, reptiles, and mammals. This species will usually constrict its prey to death before eating it. The Yellow Anaconda is also known to be cannibalistic, so it will consume other snakes, including other boas. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classifies this snake as a vulnerable species because of restrictions on its habitat range and threats from habitat loss and hunting. However, this snake remains common in much of its range and is not currently facing significant threats to its survival.
7. Bothrops Bilineatus – Forest Pit Viper
This viper feeds on rodents, lizards, and other small prey. It is a timid snake and will usually flee when confronted. However, it will strike if threatened. The venom of the Forest Pit viper is potent and can cause severe tissue damage.
8. Crotalus Durissus – South American Rattlesnake
These are medium to large snakes, typically measuring between 2 and 3 feet. They have stout bodies and broad heads with short, rounded snouts. Although their coloring varies, these snakes are generally brown or black with light-colored crossbands. They use the rattles on the ends of their tails to warn predators and prey of their presence. The venom of the South American Rattlesnake is highly toxic and can cause severe pain, swelling, and tissue damage. However, this snake is not particularly aggressive and will usually only attack if under threat.
9. Bothrops Atrox – Common Lancehead
Common Lanceheads are poisonous and have also made their home in the tropical rainforests of South America. This snake is extremely dangerous and should be avoided at all costs. The common lancehead is a pit viper, with heat-sensing pits between its eyes and nostrils that help it find prey in the dark. This snake is typically olive or brown in color, with a distinctive black stripe down its back. It can reach impressive lengths of up to 6.5 feet. The common lancehead is a predatory snake that feeds on birds, rodents, lizards, and other snakes. It can strike its prey with tremendous speed, delivering a poisonous bite. And because its bite is so toxic, it causes extensive damage to tissues and organs. Victims of a common lancehead snake bite may experience pain, swelling, bleeding, shock, and even death. But, unfortunately, there is no antivenom available for this snake, so if one bites you, it is vital to find medical help quickly.
