Great lakes bush viper
A species of Bush vipers Scientific name : Atheris nitschei Genus : Bush vipers
Great lakes bush viper, A species of Bush vipers
Scientific name: Atheris nitschei
Genus: Bush vipers
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Jgdb500 , used under CC-BY-SA-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Atheris nitschei is a venomous viper species found in Africa from Uganda and adjacent DR Congo to Rwanda, Tanzania and Burundi.
General Info
Lifespan
10-12 years
Diet
Great lakes bush viper primarily feeds on small rodents and birds. This nocturnal species uses its advanced heat-sensing capabilities and rapid strike speed to capture and subdue prey, excelling in its micromammalian and bird diet.
Appearance
Great lakes bush viper is a medium-sized venomous snake that exhibits sexual dimorphism, with females typically larger. Its body is slender and covered in keeled, scales primarily bearing a green or grey hue, patterned sporadically with yellow blotches. A prominent feature of this animal is its broad, triangular head adorned with large, dark and horizontally oriented eyes.
Behavior
Great lakes bush viper is a predominantly nocturnal species, spending its days in foliage and becoming active at night to feed on small mammals and birds. This arboreal viper is known for its striking behavior and potent venom. Solitary in nature, great lakes bush viper is highly territorial and exhibits aggressive posturing when threatened. Its greenish-brown color provides ideal camouflage in its rainforest environment.
Population
Stable
Photo By Jgdb500 , used under CC-BY-SA-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Vipers Genus
Bush vipers Species
Great lakes bush viper