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Description
An Eastern Hognose Snake (Heterodon platirhinos) hatchling from Kansas. Heterodon means "different tooth," in reference to the enlarged rear fangs found in this genus. They use these fangs to puncture the lungs of inflated toads, their preferred prey. They are also venomous, and bites in humans can cause swelling, bleeding, and pain, but little else. Generally, these snakes are extremely non-aggressive, striking with their mouths closed, and even going through elaborate death-feigning rituals. Most bites occur with captive individuals, who mistake hands for prey.

Description
An Eastern Hognose Snake (Heterodon platirhinos) hatchling from Kansas. Heterodon means "different tooth," in reference to the enlarged rear fangs found in this genus. They use these fangs to puncture the lungs of inflated toads, their preferred prey. They are also venomous, and bites in humans can cause swelling, bleeding, and pain, but little else. Generally, these snakes are extremely non-aggressive, striking with their mouths closed, and even going through elaborate death-feigning rituals. Most bites occur with captive individuals, who mistake hands for prey.