Snake Island, Brazil — officially known as Ilha da Queimada Grande — is one of the most dangerous and mysterious places on Earth. Here’s a quick overview:
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🐍 Key Facts about Snake Island:
• Location: Off the coast of São Paulo, Brazil (about 33 km/21 miles from the mainland).
• Size: Approximately 43 hectares (110 acres).
• Danger Level: Extremely high due to a large population of venomous snakes.
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🐍 Why It’s Famous:
Golden Lancehead Viper (Bothrops insularis) lives only on this island.
• Venom: Can melt human flesh; extremely potent.
• Density: Some estimates say there could be 1 to 5 snakes per square meter.
• Conservation Status: Critically endangered — despite being so dangerous, the species is protected.
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🚫 Is It Open to the Public?
• No. The Brazilian Navy strictly prohibits public access.
• Only scientists with special permits are allowed for research purposes.
• This is to protect both humans and the endangered snake population.
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🌴 Fun (and Creepy) Legends:
• It’s said that a lighthouse keeper and his family died after being attacked by snakes, which is part of the island’s chilling mythology.