Description: Pink to brown with a vertebral series of elongated yellowihs or light brown spots connected by hourglass-shaped marking on each side. It has a dark brown strip behind each eye. This dangerous viper is alsmost invisible on the forest floor. A 1.8 meter long Gaboon viper could weigh 16 kilograms.
Characteristics: The largest and heaviest of all true vipers, having a very large triangular head. It comes out in the evening to feed. fortunately, it is not aggressive, but it will stand its groud if approached. It bites when molested or stepped on. Its fangs are enourmous, often measuring 5 centimeters or 2 inches in length. It injects a large amount of venom when it strikes. Its venom is neurotoxic and hemotoxic.
Habitat: Dense rain forests. Occasionally found in open country.
Length: Average 1.2 meters, maximum 1.8 meters.
Distribution: Most of Africa.
GABOON VIPER
