A species known for its remarkable docility, impressive physical characteristics, and potent venom. It is the heaviest viper in Africa and is distinguished by its broad, leaf-shaped head and strikingly intricate pattern that superbly mimics the forest floor, making it a master of camouflage.

Despite their size and the potency of their venom, gaboon vipers are known to have a very calm disposition. They are so calm that they often do not strike even when stepped upon, preferring to rely on their exceptional ability to remain undetected. If they feel threatened, they may warn by audible hissing, which is achieved by expelling air through their nostrils.

These snakes are native to the rainforests of sub-Saharan Africa, where they spend much of their time motionless, partially buried in the leaf litter. This cryptic behavior allows them to ambush prey, including small mammals like rodents, birds, lizards, and frogs.

An interesting aspect of the gaboon viper’s behavior is its ability to control envenomation. When it does bite, it can choose not to inject venom, a phenomenon known as a “dry bite,” or it can deliver a varying quantity of venom depending on the situation. This ability is crucial, as their venom yield is one of the largest of any snake, and full envenomation can result in severe consequences, including rapid fatality.

Despite their fearsome reputation, encounters with humans are rare due to the viper’s secretive nature and preference for undisturbed habitats. However, when bites do occur, they are medical emergencies due to the complex nature of the venom, which has both necrotic and hemotoxic effects.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Angola

2019

Benin

2019

Congo-Brazzaville

2019

DR Congo (Kinshasa)

2019

Gabon

2019

Kenya

2019

Mozambique

2019

Nigeria

2019

South Africa

2019

Kwazulu-Natal

South Sudan

2019

Tanzania

2019

Uganda

2019

Zambia

2019

Zimbabwe

2019