What is a Gaboon viper?

The Gaboon viper, Bitis gabonica, is a terrestrial snake found in tropical climates. It has a fearsome reputation due to its great size, long fangs, and high venom yield. These strikingly beautiful snakes have a potent bite, and their fangs are longer than any other venomous snake in the world.

How big do Gaboon viper snakes get?

Description of the Gaboon Viper. These snakes are quite large, and average between 4 and 5 feet long. However, the largest specimen ever recorded was nearly 7 ft. long! Their coloration is perfectly adapted for rainforest living.

Why are Gaboon viper bites so rare?

Docile Nature – Perhaps the biggest reason that gaboon viper bites are so rare is simply because the snakes are not very aggressive. Obviously handling or coming in contact with any venomous snake is highly dangerous, but these snakes are much less likely to bite than some other venomous species.

What do Gaboon vipers eat?

They eat small and medium-sized mammals and birds. Gaboon vipers are passive hunters, waiting concealed to strike at whatever small creatures pass within range. Most snakes strike and release, but this viper holds on until its prey dies.