Predatory behavior of the snake Bothrops jararaca and its adaptation to captivity

Abstract

AbstractHabituation to captivity is difficult for some species. Understanding the motivational elements involved in predation may ease this habituation. Seventy‐one Brazilian jararaca snakes (Bothrops jararaca [Wied, 1824], Viperidae, Crotalinae) recently captured and never fed in captivity were tested for predatory behavior on rodents. Lighting was adapted to allow predatory sessions to occur during the first hours of the night when these animals are more active. Up to three prey subjects were presented in a session. In the first experiment, the preference for prey size and color was assessed using albino and dark‐colored rodents. In a second experiment, a group of snakes was submitted to 12 sessions during a period of almost 2 years. The strike strategy was classified in one of two categories: envenomation (E) or seizing (S). Envenomation involved a bite delivered by the snake with prompt retrieval of the head; holding the rodent in the snake’s jaws since the first strike, without retrieving the fangs and holding the prey during venom action, characterized S strike. Trailing and swallowing the dead prey always followed E strike. Results suggest that snakes fed more often on larger subjects. The color of the prey was not a relevant factor. E strike was predominant in the first predatory event in captivity. After habituation, S strike was predominant. Snakes may have a poor perception of the prey objects in captivity and adopt a strike strategy that assures the control of the prey. Also, the use of small prey subjects to ease feeding during adaptation to captivity may be less effective. Zoo Biol 20:399–406, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.