By Gurpreet Singh | October 16, 2025
Think only snakes and spiders have venom? These mammals evolved toxic powers to hunt, defend and survive uniquely.
Image: Canva
Male platypuses deliver venom through spurs during fights, causing extreme pain to rivals and potential threats nearby.
Image: Canva
Solenodons, small nocturnal mammals, use venomous saliva to immobilise insects and small animals for easier consumption.
Image: Canva
Some European moles inject venom into earthworms, storing live prey to eat gradually over several days.
Image: Canva
Slow lorises secrete venom from elbow glands, mixing it with saliva to inflict painful bites on predators.
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European water shrews hunt underwater, delivering venomous bites to fish and amphibians, preventing escape efficiently every time.
Image: Canva
Blarina shrews inject venom to immobilise prey while hunting, ensuring easier capture and minimal energy expenditure.
Image: Canva
The vampire bat’s saliva contains draculin, a venom-like anticoagulant preventing blood clotting while feeding on animals.
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This rodent chews toxic tree bark and smears it on fur, creating a chemical shield against predators.
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Known to lick toxic substances or venomous toads, coating their spines with toxins as a chemical defence.
Image: Canva