Did you know that the marsh viper is not a snake?

Have you ever heard of the marsh viper? Despite this suggestive name, this animal is not a snake. And, if we look closely, it even looks like an alligator, but it's not an alligator either. Curious, isn't it? Continue reading and understand better.

In fact, the marsh viper is one of the largest lizards in the country. It is a semiaquatic animal that likes to be alone. This is an exclusive species of the Pantanal and can also be found in regions of Bolivia and Paraguay.

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But if it's not a snake, why is the animal called a swamp viper?

According to Thiago Silva-Soares, from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, the name came from an old belief of the population. The specialist in reptiles and amphibians explains that the Pantanal population believed that this animal was venomous like some snakes in the region.

It's just a myth. After all, the swamp viper has no venom. She has strong teeth, which are used for breaking shells and eating snails, which are her favorite food on the menu, but that's about it.

Thiago points out that this animal does not have any venom inoculating prey and is harmless to humans in this sense.

In reality, this little animal has nothing to do with snakes. looks like one more alligator. That's why it is called alligator lizard in some parts of the Pantanal.

big and scared

The marsh viper can reach 1.2 meters in length and can weigh up to 4.5 kg. However, even with all this 'size', he is shy, reserved and they are almost never found around.

The specialist in reptiles and amphibians emphasizes that these animals tend to flee quickly in the presence of any human being. Or else they prefer to stay completely still. Also, they are almost never seen in packs. Therefore, it is difficult to find them wandering around the Pantanal.

This animal can live up to 12 years. And, best of all, they are not at risk of extinction.

Graduated in Social Communication at the Federal University of Goiás. Passionate about digital media, pop culture, technology, politics and psychoanalysis.