Snake grows a fake spider on its tail to lure birds; scans reveal surprisingly normal bones inside

Researchers utilized XCT scanning technology to investigate the unique tail of a viper.

The imaging uncovered the presence of standard viper vertebrae within the tail's unusual form.

This finding underscores the discrepancies that can exist between external appearance and internal skeletal makeup.

Fossilized remains alone may not capture the true look of an organism, while museum specimens remain crucial for advancing our understanding through innovative methods.