Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I know I've read that hognose snakes have very large adrenal glands to help them deal with the toxins from the toads they eat; is it possible that this is why they seem so alert and reactive and sometimes put on a big hissing, hooding, striking show? In other words, does the enlarged adrenal gland mean they actually have more adrenaline in their bloodstream than most snakes? I know my juvenile male spends lots of time trying to convince me he's a cobra and he WILL kill me if I make one more move, but then when I pick him up he's perfectly fine and admits he's not a cobra at all...

SR

Hahaha! Aww, at least he's nice enough to give in.
Hmm, dunno, but that's pretty interesting. I certainly don't think it's a stupid question! Actually... now I'm kinda curious too...
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purrhisswoofmeowblubsqueakneigh

Hey, thanks for responding! I just find the behavior of these snakes fascinating, and so different from all other snakes I've had experience with...Recently, after feeding well all Fall, my guy has decided he's not eating anymore (although I continue to offer food weekly)...This is fine, until I try to remove the mouse carcass that's been sitting in his tank, uneaten, for hours...The minute I reach for that mouse, he actually attacks me--chasing my hand around the tank, hissing like s steam engine, striking, and generally carrying on like a little homicidal maniac...I actually had to pick up an empty paper towel roll (used for a shelter) and fend him off with one hand while I whipped the mouse out with the other hand...What weird little snakes! (But really funny...)

SR