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Gaboon Viper
Bitis gabonica
40.8496, -73.8757
Field Notes
Description:
Bitis gabonica is a venomous viper species found in the rainforests and savannas of Sub-Saharan Africa. This is not only the largest member of the genus Bitis, but also the world's heaviest viperid and it has the longest fangs (up to 2 inches),and the highest venom yield of any venomous snake. Two subspecies are currently recognized, including the nominate race described here.
Habitat:
Zoo
Notes:
Adults average 122–152 cm (4 to 5 feet) in length with a maximum of 205 cm (81 in) for a specimen collected in Sierra Leone. The sexes may be distinguished by the length of the tail in relation to the total length of the body: approximately 12% for males and 6% for females. Adults, especially females, are very heavy.
Species ID Suggestions
Spotted for Missions
Photographed
PublishedJuly 18, 2011
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