Though there are only a few mammals that possess venom, here’s a concise list of them.
- Solenodons – Resembling large shrews, these creatures have a venomous bite…the venom is transferred through modified salivary glands via grooves found in their second lower incisors.
Platypus – The males feature a venomous spur on their hind legs. In contrast, echidnas, the other monotremes, possess spurs but lack functioning venom glands. While their venom isn’t lethal to humans, it is extremely painful and may lead to temporary paralysis in victims.
The purpose of this venom seems distinct from that of non-mammalian species… its effects might not be fatal to humans, yet they can severely hinder the victim. As only males generate venom and its production is heightened during the breeding season, this could serve as an offensive tool for establishing dominance at that time.
- Eurasian Water Shrew – Can administer a venomous bite.
- Southern Short-Tailed Shrew – May potentially deliver a venomous bite.
- European Mole – Containing toxins in its saliva, the European mole and possibly other mole species can paralyze earthworms, which allows for later consumption.
- Vampire bats – Release a potent anticoagulant through their saliva.
- Slow Lorises – These creatures have brachial glands located on the inner elbows that secrete a brown substance. After licking this exudate, it combines with saliva. A protein within the secretion, akin to the allergen protein from domestic cats, may be transmitted through the bites of slow lorises, leading to anaphylaxis. Therefore, the classification of slow lorises as truly venomous is debatable.
- Hedgehogs – These animals engage in anointing their spines with various toxic and irritating substances. Occasionally, they kill toads, bite into their poison glands, and smear the toxic mixture on their spines. Tenrecs, which look similar to hedgehogs but belong to a different lineage, may have also developed variations of self-anointing behavior independently. The reasons behind such behavior in hedgehogs and tenrecs—whether for defense, scent camouflage, or attracting mates—remain hotly debated.
So, there you have it…fluffy, poisonous mammals.
by Eddie the Emu
