Rhinoceros viper
A species of African adders Scientific name : Bitis nasicornis Genus : African adders
Rhinoceros viper, A species of African adders
Scientific name: Bitis nasicornis
Genus: African adders
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Mark Pellegrini , used under CC-BY-SA-2.5 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Bitis nasicornis is a venomous viper species found in the forests of West and Central Africa. A large viper, known for its striking coloration and prominent nasal "horns." No subspecies are currently recognized.
General Info
Lifespan
12-20 years
Appearance
Rhinoceros viper is a robust, medium-sized snake reaching up to 107 cm in length. Its body scales are keeled and its skin is a vibrant mix of yellow, green, and red hues with ornate horn-like scales on the nose. The pattern includes bold, geometric shapes that aid in camouflage. There's no significant difference in appearance between genders or due to age.
Behavior
Rhinoceros viper is a primarily nocturnal, solitary species known for its ambush hunting strategy and impressive camouflage abilities. It uses its horn-like scales to blend into its environment, then strikes at prey that wanders too close. Highly venomous, rhinoceros viper is aggressive when threatened and will defend its territory energetically.
Population
Decreasing
Photo By Mark Pellegrini , used under CC-BY-SA-2.5 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Vipers Genus
African adders Species
Rhinoceros viper