Red adder
A species of African adders Scientific name : Bitis rubida Genus : African adders
Red adder, A species of African adders
Scientific name: Bitis rubida
Genus: African adders
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Alouise Lynch , used under CC-BY-SA-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
Bitis rubida is a venomous viper species found only in Western Cape Province, South Africa. No subspecies are currently recognized.
General Info
Lifespan
10-15 years
Diet
Red adder primarily subsists on small mammals and birds, using its venom to immobilize and digest. Peculiarly, its preferred prey includes rodents such as mice and rats. It carefully selects these preys based on their size and availability.
Appearance
Red adder is a small yet robust snake species, distinguished by its thick-set, stout body and rough, keeled scales. Showcasing a reddish-copper color scheme, it often bears a pattern of black dorsal chevrons, enhancing its stealth in the undergrowth. Offering no substantial sexual dichromatism, both males and females retain similar appearances. Late-stage gravid females, however, exhibit noticeable body engorgement.
Behavior
Red adder exhibits a solitary and secretive lifestyle, with predominantly nocturnal habits. This species is known for its ambush predatory tactics, remaining motionless for extended periods before striking prey with a swift, accurate attack. As a terrestrial creature, it relies heavily on its excellent camouflage for both hunting and protection from predators.
Population
Stable
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Vipers Genus
African adders Species
Red adder 
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