Gaboon viper

Gaboon viper (Bitis gabonica) is a venomous snake species found in the rainforests and savannas of sub-Saharan Africa. It is the heaviest viper in Africa and has the longest fangs and highest venom yield of any snake.

Description

The Gaboon viper is known for its distinctive geometric pattern and coloration, which provides excellent camouflage in its natural habitat. It has a broad, triangular head and a thick, heavy body, with females being larger than males. The viper's fangs can reach lengths of up to 2 inches (5 cm), the longest of any snake.

Distribution and habitat

The Gaboon viper is found in the rainforests and savannas of sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal in the west to Kenya in the east, and south to Zimbabwe and Mozambique. It prefers humid environments and is often found near bodies of water.

Behavior

Gaboon vipers are nocturnal and spend most of their time hiding in leaf litter or under logs. They are ambush predators, lying in wait for prey to come within striking distance. Their diet consists mainly of small mammals, birds, and amphibians.

Venom

The venom of the Gaboon viper is highly toxic and can be fatal to humans. It contains both neurotoxins and hemotoxins, which can cause a range of symptoms including pain, swelling, necrosis, and systemic effects such as coagulopathy and organ failure.

Conservation

The Gaboon viper is not currently considered threatened or endangered. However, like many snake species, it is vulnerable to habitat loss due to deforestation and human encroachment.

See also

• List of viper species
• Snakebite

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  Gaboon viper in natural habitat

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  Complete skeleton of a Gaboon viper

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  Close-up of a Gaboon viper's head