Pit viper

Article about pit vipers

Overview

Pit vipers are a subfamily of venomous snakes known as Crotalinae, part of the family Viperidae. They are distinguished by the presence of a heat-sensing pit organ located between the eye and the nostril on either side of the head. This adaptation allows them to detect warm-blooded prey even in complete darkness.

Anatomy and Physiology

Pit vipers possess a unique venom delivery system that includes long, hinged fangs capable of injecting venom deep into their prey. The venom is a complex mixture of enzymes and proteins that can immobilize and digest prey. The pit organs are highly sensitive to infrared radiation, enabling these snakes to accurately strike at warm-blooded animals.

Venom

The venom of pit vipers varies among species but generally contains hemotoxins that disrupt blood clotting and damage tissue. Some species also have neurotoxic components that affect the nervous system. The Timber rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus), for example, has venom that can cause severe pain and swelling in humans.

Behavior

Pit vipers are generally ambush predators, relying on their camouflage and heat-sensing abilities to capture prey. They are primarily nocturnal, hunting at night when their heat-sensing pits give them a significant advantage.

Habitat

Pit vipers are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, deserts, and grasslands. They are most diverse in the Americas, with species ranging from Canada to Argentina. The Timber rattlesnake is commonly found in the eastern United States, inhabiting deciduous forests and rocky hillsides.

Reproduction

Most pit vipers are ovoviviparous, meaning they give birth to live young rather than laying eggs. The young are born fully developed and are independent from birth. This reproductive strategy is advantageous in cooler climates where egg incubation would be challenging.

Conservation

Many species of pit vipers are threatened by habitat destruction, persecution, and the illegal pet trade. Conservation efforts focus on habitat preservation and public education to reduce fear and misunderstanding of these important predators.

Related pages

• Viperidae
• Rattlesnake
• Venomous snake