Snake with double fang..is this normal?

[jamesa5150]

I recently acquired a taxidermy snake head. I noticed it has a double fang on one side. Is the a common occurrence with snakes or is this pretty abnormal?

[Will0W783]

It is common. Snakes shed their fangs, and as the old fang is loosening and getting ready to fall out, the new fang will shift forward into place. It's not that unusual to see a snake with two fangs on one side, although they are usually one in front of the other, instead of side by side. I wouldn't think side-by-side would be unheard of though.

[Mikoh4792]

Can both fangs inject venom? Or is one disconnected from the venom gland?

[Will0W783]

It depends on how far along the fang is in the process of being shed. It's like losing baby teeth, so at some point the fang will be detached from all nerves and the venom ducts, but I imagine it could be functional for a bit. I would think that if the new fang is fully descended, then the first fang is likely very close to falling out and wouldn't be attached anymore. I've never researched this very much though. I have had eyelash vipers shed fangs, and they will usually drop the first fang a week or even a few weeks before the new one comes in- they get really cranky and will refuse food until the new fang has descended.

[jamesa5150]

Hmm...very cool stuff! I really appreciate the information