What is the first likely sign of distress exhibited by a Zebra Snake encountering a perceived threat?
Answer
Flaring of the hood, potentially with hissing
When a Zebra Snake perceives a threat and begins to feel distressed, its initial defensive response is usually a conspicuous visual and auditory warning signal. This involves the immediate flaring and flattening of its neck into the characteristic cobra hood, which serves to make the snake appear significantly larger and more intimidating. This posture is often accompanied by audible hissing sounds. Only if this initial warning—the hooding and hissing—is ignored or the threat persists or escalates, will the snake typically proceed to its next defense: the specialized act of spitting venom.
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