Why snakes remain deadly even after they're dead
Listen now
Description
At first, you might think it is a plot from a zombie movie: that undead animals are coming for you. But it turns out that Australia's animals aren't just dangerous when they're alive — they can be deadly even when they're dead. Ann Jones is joined by science reporter Belinda Smith to examine why snakes can still bite up to 45 minutes after death and are potentially dangerous for years. Think we're lying? Belinda found a guy whose great aunt (and her dog) were killed by a decapitated snake! So if a snake could commit multiple murders from beyond the grave, what other animals are going to get you? Featuring -   Ray Miller, relative died after being bitten by a dead snake.  Dr Christina Zdenek, Australian Reptile Academy.  Professor Kylie Pitt, Griffith University.   Dr Olaf Meynecke,  Griffith University.   Len Zell, retired marine scientist and author of Australian Wildlife – Roadkill. Production: Belinda Smith, ABC Science Reporter/Producer.  Ann Jones, Presenter/Producer. Petria Ladgrove, Producer. Additional mastering: Hamish Camilleri. This episode of What the Duck?! was produced on the land of the Wadawarrung, Wurundjeri and Kaurna people.
More Episodes
Jaws (1975) was a massive hit that also created a whole lot of fear, but does anything in the film really stand up to shark science? Do sharks stalk humans? Do they roar? What can they sense? There are so many misconceptions when it comes to sharks that even now, 50 years later, these are...
Published 11/15/24
Did you know that pigeons make milk?  The pigeon gets a bad rap, but it is actually an incredible bird with a rich history. It is related to the dodo and even played a role in the French Revolution! Surely this bird deserves some recognition?   Featuring: Rosemary Mosco, Science writer and...
Published 11/08/24
Published 11/08/24