Crossed pit viper
A species of Lanceheads Scientific name : Bothrops alternatus Genus : Lanceheads
Crossed pit viper, A species of Lanceheads
Scientific name: Bothrops alternatus
Genus: Lanceheads
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Leandro Damiao , used under CC-BY-SA-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Bothrops alternatus is a venomous pit viper species found in Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay and Argentina. Within its range, it is an important cause of snakebite. The specific name, alternatus, which is Latin for "alternating", is apparently a reference to the staggered markings along the body. No subspecies are currently recognized.
General Info
Lifespan
15-20 years
Diet
Crossed pit viper is primarily a carnivore, characterized by a diet majorly consisting of small mammals, particularly rodents. It employs ambush hunting and relies on its venom for swift predation, ensuring a varied menu inclusive of lizards and birds.
Appearance
Crossed pit viper is a robust, medium-sized snake with a coarse, darkly pigmented skin. It has an elongated body with a distinct triangular head, characterized by a broad snout and yellowish, cat-like eyes. The snake's body is adorned with a series of dark, rhomboidal patches on a dull, brownish-gray background. Notably, crossed pit viper's appearance does not differ significantly due to age, gender, or subspecies.
Behavior
Crossed pit viper is a solitary, nocturnal species with a predominantly terrestrial lifestyle. It is known for its ambush predation strategy, awaiting prey while camouflaged in leaf litter. This species exhibits strong territoriality, defending its area through aggressive posturing and, if needed, venomous bites.
Photo By Leandro Damiao , used under CC-BY-SA-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Vipers Genus
Lanceheads Species
Crossed pit viper