strikes. In predatory strikes, the snake strikes and envenomates the target, and then quickly releases the target. Releasing the target prevents retaliatory damage to the snake or its venom delivery system. Once released, the target animal runs away until the venom induces death of the target. Snake venom has a scent that is easily recognized by the snake, allowing the snake to relocate its prey once it has run away and become deceased. While not all snake species in every situation release their prey after envenomation, venom generally assists in prey relocation. Venomous snakes have also been shown to be aware of the relative size of prey. Juvenile Rattlesnakes were experimentally shown to have the ability to adapt the volume of venom they expelled based on prey size. Once experienced, the juvenile Rattlesnakes consistently expelled more venom when attacking larger mice. This ability allows the snake to inject a sufficient quantity of venom to euthanize the prey while also conserving their venom supply for subsequent strikes. The economical use of venom is an important factor as it is a metabolically expensive resource. Diagnosis and treatment Diagnosing snake envenomation is a crucial step in determining which antivenom is to be applied. Each year there are around 2 million cases of snake envenomation and up to 100,000 deaths worldwide. Various anti-venom treatments exist, typically consisting of antibodies or antibody fragments, which neutralize the venom. Certain snakes require certain treatments, such as pit vipers and coral snakes. Anti-venom therapy is designed to treat the hemorrhaging and coagulation effects that venom has on humans. See also List of venomous animals Toxicology References External links Physiology Toxicology