Gaboon viper
A species of African adders, Also known as Forest puff adder, Swampjack Scientific name : Bitis gabonica Genus : African adders
Gaboon viper, A species of African adders
Also known as:
Forest puff adder, Swampjack
Scientific name: Bitis gabonica
Genus: African adders
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Ltshears , used under CC-BY-SA-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
Bitis gabonica, most commonly known as the Gaboon viper, is a viper species found in the rainforests and savannas of sub-Saharan Africa. Like all vipers, it is venomous. It is not only the largest member of the genus Bitis, but also the world's heaviest viperid, and it has the longest fangs â up to 2 inches in length (5Â cm) â and the highest venom yield of any snake. Two subspecies are currently recognized, including the nominate...
General Info
Lifespan
10-15 years
Diet
Gaboon viper's primary food source is small mammals, particularly rodents. It uses its venom to immobilize prey, which it then swallows whole. Infrequently, it also consumes birds.
Appearance
Gaboon viper is a large, heavy-bodied snake characterized by its distinct triangular head and rough, keeled skin. It's primarily hued in a striking pattern of tan, brown, black, and occasionally blue. This species boasts multiple bands across its length, a ric-rac or zigzag pattern down its back, and two distinctive horn-like structures on its snout. No significant gender, age, or subspecies differences in appearance are noted.
Behavior
Gaboon viper is a sedentary, solitary species that primarily exhibits ambush predation tactics. It uses its unique coloration for camouflage within its habitat, lying motionless until an appropriate prey approaches. Notably, gaboon viper demonstrates defensive hissing when threatened, and may strike rapidly if provoked.
Population
Decreasing
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Vipers Genus
African adders Species
Gaboon viper 
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