Horned adder
A species of African adders, Also known as Horned viper Scientific name : Bitis caudalis Genus : African adders
Horned adder, A species of African adders
Also known as:
Horned viper
Scientific name: Bitis caudalis
Genus: African adders
Content
Description General Info
Description
Bitis caudalis is a venomous viper species found in the arid region of southwest Africa, easily distinguished by the presence of a single, large horn-like scale over each eye. No subspecies are currently recognized.
General Info
Lifespan
12-20 years
Diet
Horned adder is a predominantly carnivorous species, predilecting for small vertebrates and invertebrates. It commonly feeds on rodents, small birds, and occasionally selects lizards, showcasing its versatile feeding behavior.
Appearance
Horned adder is a medium-sized snake with a stout body and distinct triangular head. Covered in scaled skin, it displays varied coloration like light brown, yellow, or grey, often sprinkled with darker spots. It is renowned for its angled, stubby tail that's contrasting black and white in color. Males are noticeably smaller than females. Strikingly, juveniles exhibit a pink or orange hue which darkens with age.
Behavior
Horned adder is a sedentary and solitary species that predominantly exhibits ambush feeding tactics, utilizing camouflage within its arid habitat. It is a nocturnal predator, hunting primarily at night, and it exhibits defensive behavior when threatened, inflating its body and hissing loudly. Contact and marking territories is rare due to its solitary nature.
Population
Stable
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Vipers Genus
African adders Species
Horned adder 
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