Ilha da Queimada Grande facts for kids
Ilha da Queimada Grande is an island near the coast of São Paulo state in Brazil. It is often called Snake Island because of the many snakes living there. This island is the only home of the Golden Lancehead Viper (Bothrops insularis). This viper is one of the most venomous snakes in the world. The Brazilian Navy does not allow people to visit the island. However, some scientists and researchers can get special permission to study the island's unique wildlife.
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What is Ilha da Queimada Grande?
Ilha da Queimada Grande is a small island. It is located about 33 kilometers (20 miles) off the coast of Brazil. The island covers an area of about 43 hectares (106 acres). This is roughly the size of 80 football fields. The island's landscape is mostly rocky. It also has some rainforest and open grassland areas.
Why is it Called Snake Island?
The island got its nickname, Snake Island, for a very good reason. It has an incredibly high number of snakes. Experts believe there is about one snake per square meter in some parts of the island. This makes it one of the most dangerous places on Earth for humans.
The Golden Lancehead Viper
The most famous resident of Ilha da Queimada Grande is the Golden Lancehead Viper. Its scientific name is Bothrops insularis. This snake is a type of pit viper. It has a distinctive golden-brown color. This helps it blend in with the island's environment.
What Makes This Snake Special?
The Golden Lancehead Viper is unique because it lives only on this island. It cannot be found anywhere else in the world. This makes it an endangered species. Its venom is very powerful. It is much stronger than the venom of its relatives on the mainland. Scientists believe this strong venom helps the snake catch birds. Birds are its main food source on the island.
How Does the Viper Hunt?
Since there are no large mammals on the island, the Golden Lancehead Viper mainly eats birds. It waits for birds to land on trees. Then, it strikes quickly. Its strong venom acts fast. This allows the snake to catch the bird before it can fly away.
Why is Visiting the Island Forbidden?
The Brazilian Navy strictly controls access to Ilha da Queimada Grande. This ban is for two main reasons. First, it protects people from the highly venomous snakes. A bite from a Golden Lancehead Viper can be very dangerous. Second, it protects the snakes themselves. The Golden Lancehead Viper is an endangered species. Limiting human visits helps preserve their natural habitat.
Who Can Visit the Island?
Only a few people are allowed to visit Ilha da Queimada Grande. These are usually scientists, biologists, and researchers. They get special permission from the Brazilian government. Their visits are important for studying the snakes and the island's unique ecosystem. They learn about the snakes' behavior and how to protect them.
The Island's Importance
Ilha da Queimada Grande is more than just a snake-filled island. It is a vital natural laboratory. It helps scientists understand evolution and venom. The island's isolation has allowed the Golden Lancehead Viper to evolve uniquely. Studying this snake can lead to new discoveries in medicine. For example, its venom might contain compounds useful for new drugs.
