Sep 27, 2023, 11:49 AM IST

10 Terrifying animals that spit acid

Mahipal Chouhan

Spitting Cobra: Cobras, like the spitting cobra, can project venom accurately into the eyes of a threat. While it's not technically acid, cobra venom can cause severe irritation and damage.

Bombardier Beetle: This beetle can eject a boiling hot chemical spray when threatened. The spray is a combination of chemicals that can burn and deter predators.

Horned Lizard: When threatened, horned lizards can squirt a stream of blood from the corners of their eyes. This foul-tasting blood can deter predators.

Spitting Spider: Spitting spiders have specialized venom glands that allow them to spit a mixture of silk and venom at their prey, immobilizing them from a distance.

Harvester Ants: Certain species of harvester ants can squirt formic acid from their abdomens as a defense mechanism.

Iguanas: Green iguanas, when threatened, can forcefully expel a foul-smelling substance from glands in their snouts.

Mantis Shrimp: Some species of mantis shrimp can release a powerful stream of water from their mouths to break open shells of prey. While not acidic, this stream is a formidable hunting tool.

Spiny Devil Katydid: These insects can secrete a toxic, foul-smelling substance from their thorax when threatened.

Spotted Skunk: Unlike other skunks, spotted skunks can do a handstand and spray a foul-smelling liquid from their anal glands in multiple directions, effectively creating a "circle of defense."