Forest night adder
A species of Night adders Scientific name : Causus lichtensteinii Genus : Night adders
Forest night adder, A species of Night adders
Scientific name: Causus lichtensteinii
Genus: Night adders
Content
Description General Info
Description
Causus lichtensteinii is a venomous viper species endemic to western and central Africa. No subspecies are currently recognized.
General Info
Lifespan
10-15 years
Diet
Forest night adder is predominantly insectivorous, feeding mainly on a variety of arthropods. Its diet commonly includes beetles, caterpillars, and spiders, skillfully hunted during the night.
Appearance
Forest night adder is a small-sized venomous snake with a slim body covered with smooth, shiny scales. This reptile is predominantly greenish-grey to black, with a white or yellowish underbelly. It has a distinctive pointed snout and small eyes, while no large differences exist between males and females. Its most exceptional feature is the array of upturned scales on the tip of its snout, resembling a series of miniature horns.
Behavior
Forest night adder is a nocturnal species, typically solitary except during reproduction. It uses its venom primarily for prey immobilization during hunting. Its cryptic coloration serves as effective camouflage in its natural habitat.
Population
Stable
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Vipers Genus
Night adders Species
Forest night adder