To which major snake family does the Western Hognose Snake belong?
Answer
Colubridae, the largest snake family worldwide.
The Western Hognose Snake, *Heterodon nasicus*, is classified within the family Colubridae. This family is recognized globally as being the largest snake family. Despite possessing mild venom and engaging in complex defensive behaviors, its taxonomy places it within this vast group, distinguishing it from families like Viperidae or Elapidae which possess more potent venom systems adapted for different predatory strategies. Within Colubridae, it maintains a unique status within its own genus, *Heterodon*.
Related Questions
What are the three recognized species within the genus Heterodon?What is the primary function of the upturned rostral scale on *H. nasicus*?What is the final defensive act exhibited by the Western Hognose if bluffing fails?How do hognoses inject mild venom secretions into their preferred prey?What constitutes the overwhelming majority of the Western Hognose Snake's diet?How does the rostral scale structure of *H. nasicus* generally compare to *H. platirhinos*?To which major snake family does the Western Hognose Snake belong?What is the initial defensive display strategy employed by the Western Hognose when threatened?Which geographical description fits the distribution of *H. nasicus* across North America?What specific evolutionary advantage does the mild venom provide against favored prey?