Puff adder
A species of African adders, Also known as Common puff adder Scientific name : Bitis arietans Genus : African adders
Puff adder, A species of African adders
Also known as:
Common puff adder
Scientific name: Bitis arietans
Genus: African adders
Content
Description General Info
Photo By JonRichfield , used under CC-BY-SA-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
Bitis arietans is a venomous viper species found in savannah and grasslands from Morocco and western Arabia throughout Africa except for the Sahara and rain forest regions. It is responsible for causing the most snakebite fatalities in Africa owing to various factors, such as its wide distribution, frequent occurrence in highly populated regions, and aggressive disposition. Two subspecies are currently recognized, including the nominate subspecies described here.
General Info
Lifespan
16-20 years
Diet
Puff adder primarily feeds on small vertebrates, with a special preference for rodents and birds. This opportunistic feeder is also known to eat amphibians, creating diet variation based on regional prey availability.
Appearance
Puff adder is a sizeable thick-bodied viper with a short, stout tail. Its distinctive head is large, triangular, and has a hump on the snout. The snake's skin is a complex pattern of gold, brown, and black, that provides excellent camouflage. Males may be slightly smaller than females, but otherwise, both sexes have a similar appearance.
Behavior
Puff adder is a solitary and territorial species, primarily nocturnal and using ambush hunting tactics. It demonstrates remarkable camouflaging abilities, which it uses to avoid predators and to sneak up on prey. Puff adder uses its venom not only for predation but also as a primary means of self defense.
Population
Stable
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Vipers Genus
African adders Species
Puff adder 
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