The Abyssinia Slug-eater (Duberria lutrix) is a species of non-venomous typical snake of the subfamily Colubrinae, family Colubridae found in Ethiopia, that feeds on small invertebrates and other small reptiles. The Abyssinia Slug-eater grows to an average length of 40 cm. Research Abyssinia Slug-Eater
The Anaconda is a South American snake, a member of the python and boa family, the Boidae. One of the largest snakes, growing to nine metres or more in length, it is found in and near water, where it lies in wait for the birds and animals on which it feeds. The Anaconda is not venomous, but kills its prey by coiling round it and squeezing until the creature suffocates. The Anaconda is a climber as well as a swimmer, and may be found in trees along river banks. Research Anaconda
Aparallactinae is the 'Mole Vipers' subfamily of reptiles of the typical snakes family, Colubridae, suborder Serpentes (Snakes). The subfamily contains about ten genera and about 45 species native to Africa and the Middle East. All the members are venomous, with the fangs set forward in the jaw, in some species the fangs are hinged and lie flat against the jaw until required to be erected. Research Aparallactinae
The Asp, or Aspic (Naja, or Vipera haje) is a species of viper found in Egypt, resembling the cobra da capello or spectacle-serpent of the East Indies, and having a very venomous bite. When approached or disturbed it elevates its head and body, swells out its neck, and appears to stand erect to attack the aggressor. Hence the ancient Egyptians believed that the asps were guardians of the spots they inhabited, and the figure of this Asp, from ancient reptile was adopted as Egyptian monument. an emblem of the protecting genius of the world. The balancing motions made by it in the endeavour to maintain the erect attitude have led to the employment of the asp as a dancing Serpent by the African jugglers. The deaf adder that stoppeth her ear of Psalm LVIII. 4, 5 is translated asp in the margin, and seems to have been this species. Cleopatra is said to have committed suicide by means of an asp's bite, but the incident is generally associated with the Cerastes or horned viper, not with the haje. The name asp is also given to a viper (Vipera aspis) common on the continent of Europe. Research Asp
The Bead-snake (Elaps fulvius), is a beautiful venomoussnake of North America, inhabiting cultivated grounds, especially plantations of the sweet-potato, and burrowing in the ground. It is finely marked with yellow, carmine, and black. Research Bead-Snake
The black snake (Coluber constrictor) is a common non-venomous snake found in the USA. It is about five feet long and is so agile it was nicknamed the Racer. It feeds on small animals and birds and was used for catching rats. In Australia the black snake is a popular name for Pseudechis porphyriacus, a highly poisonous species allied to the cobra. Research Black Snake
The Boa Constrictor is a species of snake of the Boagenus found in South America. The Boa Constrictor grows to about 4.5 metres in length (rarely more than six meters) and is brown in colour with black and yellowish markings. The Boa Constrictor is not venomous, but suffocates its prey by constricting its chest so that it cannot take breath. Research Boa Constrictor
The Californian Kingsnake (Lampropeltis getulus californiae) is an American snake, native from Canada south to Ecuador, where they are found in varying habitats ranging from deserts to pine forests, mountain slopes, dry river beds and even in city suburbs. The Californian Kingsnake is generally banded with black and white hoops, is terrestrial and grows to about 120 cm long. They feed on lizards, birds, rodents and other snakes, including venomous species and other Californian King snakes. The Californian Kingsnake is a popular pet as they are non-venomous, easily tamed, enjoy being handled, like a small terrarium and are robust living for as long as fifteen years. Research Californian Kingsnake
The Chinese copperhead (Agkistrodon acutus) is a venomoussnake of the pit viper family (Crotalidae). The Chinese copperhead grows to a length of about 120 cm and feeds on small mammals and amphibians. Research Chinese Copperhead
The Probert Encyclopaedia was designed, edited and programed by
Matt and Leela Probert
Abbreviations
Research Abyssinia Slug-Eater
