What is the initial defensive display strategy employed by the Western Hognose when threatened?
Answer
Flattening the neck and body to create a cobra-like hood, accompanied by hissing.
The defensive behavior sequence employed by the Western Hognose is a graded response, meaning it starts mildly and only escalates if the initial deterrent is unsuccessful. The very first stage of this display involves postural changes intended to maximize apparent size and intimidate a potential threat. This includes flattening the neck and the anterior part of the body to form a hood shape, reminiscent of a cobra display. This visual threat is typically reinforced by loud, forceful hissing sounds produced during exhalation.
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