Located off the coast of Brazil, Snake Island or ‘Ilha da Queimada Grande’ is an isolated island – and rightly so, as it’s home to thousands of highly venomous snakes. It’s famous for being one of the most dangerous places on Earth. Still, it continues to fascinate scientists and daredevils seeking a thrill.
The Location of Snake Island
Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, and located about 90 miles from São Paulo, this 43-hectare island’s landscape is mainly rocky ground and rainforest. Its dense trees and terrain hide some of the most dangerous snakes alive. The Brazilian Navy strictly controls access to protect not only humans but also the unusual island’s delicate ecosystem.
The Golden Lancehead Viper
Bothrops insularis, also known as the Golden Lancehead Viper, is the island’s most famous local. Its venom is 5 times stronger than mainland snakes. If it bites you, you’ll die in less than an hour. This species exists nowhere else on Earth and is now classified as endangered.
How Many Snakes Are There?
Data suggest there are approximately between 2,000 and 4,000 Golden lanceheads on Snake Island. Can you believe that’s about 1 snake per square meter in some spots? The snake breed flourishes in the rainforest but pray is limited and inbreeding is a problem.
How Did They Get There?
The snakes became isolated around 11,000 years ago. Rising sea levels separated the small piece of land from Brazil’s mainland. With limited competition and no predators, they adapted to hunting migratory birds that stopped on the island to rest.
The Lighthouse Keeper’s Legend
A known myth about the island emerged in the early 1900. A lighthouse keeper and his family that lived on the island were all killed by snakes that invaded their home. Officials decided to automate the lighthouse, meaning no more people lived on the island.
Failed Farming Attempts
Settlers once decided to farm bananas on Snake Island regardless of the obvious risk. But regular encounters with venomous vipers made them quit. The Portuguese name, “Queimada,” means “to burn”. The name comes from the settlers’ attempts to burn land sections by fire for crops.
Conservation Efforts
Access is denied to the public at Snake Island to protect its ecosystem and stop unlawful snake smuggling. Only a very select number of researchers are granted access, allowing them to study the rare snake breeds.
Medicinal Potential of Venom
The Golden Lancehead’s venom is being analyzed for potential pharmaceutical use. It has helped treat blood clotting disorders and high blood pressure. Researchers even think the venom could save lives.
Innovations from Snake Venom
A tissue sealant extracted from the snake’s poison, called Batroxobin, can stop severe bleeding in seconds. It works by degrading fibrinogen, a protein needed for coagulation, which can assist in managing excessive hemorrhaging in specific healthcare scenarios.
Why Are They Endangered?
Despite the abundance of Golden Lanceheads snakes on Snake Island, they are endangered because of inbreeding limited food sources. Prohibited animal trafficking endangers the creatures even more. They can sell for up to $30,000 each.
What’s the Appeal?
Scientists still explore the island’s unusal ecosystem and the medicinal properties of the snake’s venom. Adrenaline junkies are attracted by its dangerous reputation and stories of a hidden pirate treasure, buried on the island. But to this day no treasure has ever been found.
A Deadly Mystery
Ilha da Queimada Grande is a contradiction: both lethal and captivating. Its large snake population makes it inhospitable for humans but important for scientific research. This island, overflowing with venomous snakes, is a mysterious symbol of nature’s ability to adapt.
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