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Venomous snakes

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Alan2 | 10:07 Sat 16th Apr 2005 | Animals & Nature
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When an animal kills and eats a poisonous snake, why does that animal not die from the venom
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Because the venom is composed of polypeptide toxins they are digested. They would half to be absorbed undamaged from the alimentary canal to the bloodstream to exert their toxic effect
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Thank you.
In addition to Rabelais' excellent answer, the venom is contained in small sacs just behind and above the fangs in a well protected area of the bony skull.  The animal would have to eat that specific area before coming into contact with the venom...
They may also be immune to the toxin.
because it was already dead?

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Venomous snakes

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