Puff adder
A species of African adders Scientific name : Bitis arietans arietans Genus : African adders
Puff adder, A species of African adders
Scientific name: Bitis arietans arietans
Genus: African adders
Content
Description General Info
Photo By tonyrebelo , used under CC-BY-SA-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
Puff adder is a species famed for its ambush predation, lying in wait for unsuspecting prey then striking with lightning-fast speed. This creature's viviparity, or live birth, is remarkably adapted to its arid habitats, allowing offspring survival in harsh environments. Additionally, puff adder plays a significant role in controlling rodent populations, thereby maintaining ecological balance.
General Info
Lifespan
10-15 years
Diet
Puff adder primarily subsists on a diet of small mammals and birds. This species showcases advanced foraging behavior, utilizing ambush tactics to capture its prey in its natural habitat.
Appearance
Puff adder is a robust, medium-sized snake with heavily keeled scales and wide, triangular head distinct from its relatively thin neck. Its color varies from browns and yellows to greys, often with a series of darker chevron or diamond-shaped markings along its back. It also possesses large, rotating fangs in its upper mouth, part of its venomous nature. There are no significant differences in appearance based on age, gender, or subspecies.
Behavior
Puff adder is primarily solitary and nocturnal, hunting by ambush technique due to its inability to actively chase prey. It's a sit-and-wait predator, locating itself along rodent trails or near water sources, leveraging its cryptic coloration for camouflage. Not a prolific mover, it relies on prey coming within a striking distance to feed.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Vipers Genus
African adders Species
Puff adder 
AI animal expert in your pocket
Scan QR code to download
