A video of a snake posted by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources has racked up more than 35 million views, just in time for Halloween. Watch the video below and then read more about it.
So, what did you just watch?
The terrifying performance, is just that — a performance, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.
Here’s how the department explained it in a social media post.
Nope, not a cobra. In fact, it’s not even a venomous snake! It’s actually just a native eastern hognose putting on the theatrical performance of its life.
When this creepy critter feels threatened, it flares its neck and body by breathing in deeply and then expelling the air with an impresssssive hiss. If that doesn’t work, a hognose will forcefully roll onto its back and begin to writhe violently as if in terrible pain.
During this ‘death performance,’ the snake may also evert its cloacal vent, regurgitate its stomach contents, defecate, release musk and even bleed from its mouth. Talk about dedication.
Afterwards, the snake will appear lifeless and limp, confident that all potential predators have decided on a different main course.
What do y’all think – does the hognose deserve an academy award?
Video recorded by a person under a scientific collecting permit. Never harass wildlife species.
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