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    Atractaspididae – Mole vipers

    Rarely come to the surface, except during heavy rains or at night, which makes them difficult to study and observe

    Commonly known as burrowing asps or stiletto snakes, it represents a unique and intriguing group of snakes found primarily in Africa, with a few species also inhabiting the Middle East. These snakes are particularly noted for their specialized adaptations to a burrowing lifestyle and their potent venom, making them both fascinating and formidable creatures.

    Burrowing asps have several distinct physical characteristics that suit their subterranean habits. They are generally small to medium, with most species measuring less than a meter in length. Their bodies are cylindrical and robust, designed to power through soil and loose substrates. The most distinctive feature of these snakes is their head, which is small, narrow, and often equipped with a hard, shovel-shaped snout that aids in digging. Additionally, their eyes are small and can be covered by scales, protecting them from debris as they burrow.

    One of the most notable aspects of Atractaspididae snakes is their unique fangs. Unlike most venomous snakes that have fixed or hinged fangs, stiletto snakes possess unusually long, fixed fangs that are positioned in such a way that they can strike and envenomate without having to fully open their mouths. This adaptation allows them to deliver venom in tight underground tunnels where space is limited, making them particularly effective at subduing prey or defending themselves in their constrained burrowing environment.

    The venom of burrowing asps is highly potent and is primarily neurotoxic, affecting the nervous system of their prey, which typically includes small mammals, amphibians, and other reptiles. Despite their venomous capabilities, these snakes are generally shy and reclusive, avoiding human contact whenever possible. However, if threatened or accidentally stepped on, they can deliver a painful and dangerous bite, making them a concern in regions where they are common.