Does the Puff Adder strike backwards?
Contrary to popular belief, the Puff Adder (Bitis arietans) cannot strike backwards. Like most other snakes, it is capable of striking forwards or to the sides or, once it has turned around, striking in the opposite direction, but not backwards. This belief probably originated from the snake’s habit of snapping into a coiled or striking position when disturbed, which may give the impression that it strikes backwards.
