More sightings and more bites than usual. Expert Helga Happ explains the behavior of the reptiles and gives tips for emergencies.
As reported on Saturday, a six-year-old girl was bitten by a horned viper while climbing a rock at the Forstsee. The little one has been given an antidote in the hospital and is no longer in danger of life.
However, this attack is not an isolated case
This year there were significantly more sightings and bites in Carinthia than in previous years. Reptile expert Helga Happ also knows the reason for this: “Spring and May were too cold. The snakes did not take food with them.” Snakes can only digest their food at a temperature of around 30 degrees – so now is the right time for them to go hunting.
“Food intake is currently in full swing, the snakes are eating like crazy,” says Happ. The animals are therefore more agile and aggressive. The reptiles seek a warm place for digestion and often come into contact with humans. “If the snake feels threatened, it can only defend itself with a bite.”
The teeth of the horned viper are dangerous
In the case of the bitten girl, according to the expert, the parents reacted correctly and warned the rescue service: “A horned viper has teeth up to a centimeter long. They go deep into the flesh, where the venom takes effect quickly.” This can quickly become life-threatening in children.
Stay calm! Otherwise it will be dangerous
Helga Happ therefore advises to remain calm with a snake bite. “Even if the bite is painful, you shouldn’t move too much, because then the venom will only get into the bloodstream faster,” says the expert.
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
