Common lancehead
A species of Lanceheads, Also known as Barba amarilla Scientific name : Bothrops atrox Genus : Lanceheads
Common lancehead, A species of Lanceheads
Also known as:
Barba amarilla
Scientific name: Bothrops atrox
Genus: Lanceheads
Content
Description General Info
Description
Bothrops atrox â also known as the common lancehead, fer-de-lance, and barba amarilla â is a venomous pit viper species found in the tropical lowlands of northern South America east of the Andes. No subspecies are currently recognized.
General Info
Lifespan
15-20 years
Diet
Common lancehead primarily sustains on a diet of small mammals, with a significant preference for rodents. It skilfully hunts these animals, positioning itself for a precise strike to subdue its prey.
Appearance
The common lancehead is a large, stocky snake with a robust body, akin to a rope. Its posteriorly keeled, rough skin is primarily light brown, adorned with rhombic blotches filled with a darker hue. The head showcases a pair of rectangular markings called 'temporal lines.' Notable features include long, hollow fangs that are folded back into its mouth. There are no significant variations in appearance due to age, gender or subspecies.
Behavior
Common lancehead exhibits solitary, nocturnal behaviors, typically hunting and foraging at night. It defends its territory aggressively if threatened and uses its potent venom as a primary survival mechanism in its habitat. Embedded in its behavior is an ambush hunting style marked by exceptional patience, in which it waits motionlessly for prey to approach within striking distance.
Population
Stable
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Vipers Genus
Lanceheads Species
Common lancehead 
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