Mimicking a Viper

[384 words] What looks like a Gaboon viper, sounds like a Gaboon viper, and acts like a Gaboon viper? A Gaboon viper, of course. Also, the Congolese giant toad. With its two-inch fangs, the Gaboon viper is one of the largest vipers in Africa. The Congolese giant toad can be found only in the same habitat as the Gaboon viper. With a body that resembles the head of the viper, in that it is the same color and size, the toad can also mimic the sound of the hissing snake. And, when the toad is threatened, it will raise its rear end, making it look similar to the Gaboon viper getting ready to strike (Science News, October 25, 2019). The toad’s ability to appear to be a Gaboon viper is seemingly an effective defense mechanism in a certainly hostile environment. Looking like a serpent is likely vital to the toad’s…