Queimada island bothrops
A species of Lanceheads Scientific name : Bothrops insularis Genus : Lanceheads
Queimada island bothrops, A species of Lanceheads
Scientific name: Bothrops insularis
Genus: Lanceheads
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Nayeryouakim , used under CC BY-SA 4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Bothrops insularis, commonly known as the golden lancehead, is a venomous pit viper species endemic to Ilha da Queimada Grande, off the coast of São Paulo state, in Brazil. The species is named for the light yellowish-brown color of its underside and for its head shape which is characteristic of the genus Bothrops. No subspecies of Bothrops insularis are currently recognized.
General Info
Lifespan
10-15 years
Diet
Queimada island bothrops predominantly consumes birds, particularly small passerine species. It employs a unique 'sit-and-wait' predatory strategy, striking when prey ventures into its territory. Occasionally, it may consume small mammals or reptiles.
Appearance
Queimada island bothrops is a medium-sized snake with a thin body and smooth scales. It is primarily golden yellow in coloration, accentuated by darker spots or crossbands. The snake's head is broadly triangular and distinctly separated from the neck. There are no notable differences between genders or ages in terms of physical appearance.
Behavior
Queimada island bothrops is a solitary, nocturnal snake, predominantly utilizing ambush tactics for hunting. It has a uniquely developed chemoreception for discerning its prey, facilitated by specialized heat-sensing pits. Typically, it is static during the day, becoming highly active and aggressive in the hunt during the nighttime hours.
Population
Decreasing
Photo By Nayeryouakim , 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
Queimada island bothrops