REPTILIAN TUESDAY # 13

REPTILIAN TUESDAY # 13

Who loves reptiles? We do and we hope you do too! Today’s reptile isn’t what we could call cuddly though, but they are magnificent and beautiful! Are you ready to meet our reptile? Let’s do it!

MEET THE GABOON VIPER!

Range/Habitat: West-Central Africa/rainforests

Diet: Carnivore: birds, rodents and small mammals

Length/Weight: 4 ft- 6 ½ ft/ up to 18ft

Conservation Status: Common

Fun Facts:

• Gaboon vipers have thick bodies and are the heaviest snake in the viper family.
• They also have the longest fangs of all venomous snakes, up to 2” long!
• Gaboon vipers are known to be very docile and will only strike as a last resort. They are still best left alone.
• They have beautiful geometric patterns in brown, tan and gold. Their coloration and pattern are excellent at helping them camouflage.
• Gaboon vipers have large triangular heads and two tiny horns in-between their nostrils.
• They are nocturnal (active at night).

Gaboon vipers are spectacular with their beautiful patterns.  We’re happy to observe them from a distance since they have such big fangs with venom!