Use the text to compare and contrast venomous creatures and poisonous creatures.
Although poisonous and venomous creatures both produce toxic chemicals that can be
deadly, their reasons and methods for delivering these toxins are not the
same. Venomous creatures tend to bite, stab, or sting to inject their toxins. Poisonous
creatures are more passive. Instead of injecting their toxins, poisonous creatures often
line their skin with toxic chemicals. Another creature must touch or eat the poisonous
creature to feel the effects. Poisonous creatures primarily use their poisons to defend
themselves against predators. Venomous creatures, however, use their venom for offense
as well as defense, and they sometimes even use it for mating. The venomous male
platypus, for example, paralyzes rival males by shooting a toxin out of barbs on his feet.
Venomous creatures Poisonous creatures
Can be deadly
Bite, stab, or sting
May use their toxic chemicals in mating