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The Fer-de-lance or Mapepire Balsain Bothrops asper, is a pit viper. It detects prey via heat sensitive pits between the eye and nostril. The Fer-de-lance is highly venomous and one of the most dangerous snakes in South America. It is responsible for most of the serious snake-bite incidents in Trinidad. It is not found in Tobago. While all snakes play important roles in natural ecosystems and should be left alone, special care must be exercised with the Fer-de-lance due to its poisonous venom and aggressive disposition. |
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The Boa Constrictor Boa constrictor, is locally known as the Macajuel, a name of Venezuelan origin. Boa constrictors live in a wide range of habitats on both Trinidad and Tobago. They can be both arboreal and terrestrial where they feed usually on small mammals, frogs, lizards or birds. Despite the reputation that Boa Constrictors have of growing to an immense size, in Trinidad individuals are unlikely to exceed 12 feet. |
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The Cooks Tree-boa or Cascabel Corallus hortulanus, is a tree dwelling boa found in both Trinidad and Tobago. They feed on birds, bats and other small mammals. They hunt at night and detect their prey with a row of heat sensitive pits on the lower jaw. During the day they curl up in a ball on a branch, usually overhanging water. They are frequently seen in the Caroni Swamp asleep in the mangrove bordering the canals. |
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The Anaconda, Eunectes murinus, locally known as a Huilla, is the largest snake in South America and can grow to a length of 25 feet. It is at home in swamps, rivers and marshlands where it lies in wait under the waterline for approaching prey. It is non-venomous. In Trinidad large individuals are rare due to habitat loss and a tendency for the population to kill all snakes encountered.
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The Spectacled Caiman Caiman crocodilus, is found in both Trinidad and Tobago. In Trinidad the Spectacled Caiman is widely distributed anywhere there is fresh or brackish water. It is a small crocodilian reaching just over eight feet when mature. They are relatively timid and will shy away when disturbed. The females however have been known to defend their nest and may pose a danger under such circumstances. |
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