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Re: Heterodont (Hognose snake) question
If I remember correctly Heterodon nasicus (Western hogs) have enlarged venom glands behind their rear fangs that are connected to the fang sheath capable of producing a venom which will kill small prey in a couple of hours. This is not really delivered through the fangs though but as a salivary agent. The rear fangs are really just to give them a better grip on their prey. If the prey does escape it has been bitten and the Hog can then track it down until it becomes immobile or dies.
Heterodon platirhinos, Heterodon simus (Eastern and Southern Hogs) have them but they are not enlarged/developed to the point that they create much in the way of toxic venom but they are still there and produce a weakened substance at best.
No the rear fangs are not for deflating toads they can’t swing down far enough to do that.
Now try to remember it has been a while since I read up on this but I think that is correct. Perhaps one of our more experienced Naturalists like BW Smith can correct any mistakes in my explaination.
But no matter, unless you suffer from an alergy all Hogs of North America are harmless to you.
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