One of Japan’s most famous snakes, known for being both widespread and venomous. Found throughout Japan, as well as parts of Russia, this pit viper is often called the “Japanese pit viper.” It is relatively small compared to some other vipers but it packs a powerful punch with its venom. Its body is thick, covered in earthy gray, brown, or reddish tones with distinctive dark hourglass-shaped bands, which allow it to blend perfectly into grass, forests, or rocky riverbanks. This camouflage makes it easy to overlook, which is one reason why accidental encounters with people are fairly common.

Like rattlesnakes and copperheads in North America (its distant relatives), the Mamushi has heat-sensing pits on its head that let it detect the body heat of prey, even in total darkness. It uses this ability to strike quickly at frogs, rodents, lizards, and small birds. After injecting venom, it often waits for the prey to weaken before swallowing it whole. Its venom is hemotoxic, meaning it damages blood cells and tissues, and while bites to humans are rarely fatal with medical care, they can be serious and painful.

Despite its dangerous reputation, the Mamushi is not naturally aggressive. Most bites occur when people accidentally step on or handle it while working in rice fields, hiking, or fishing. When left alone, it usually stays still and relies on its camouflage to avoid detection. In fact, some people in rural Japan even value the snake, as it helps keep rodent populations under control. Interestingly, Mamushi snakes have also been used in traditional Japanese medicine and cuisine. In some regions, Mamushi-infused sake is considered a health tonic, believed to boost stamina and vitality.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Japan

2017

Hokkaido, Honshu, Kyushu, Shikoku

Russia

2017

Kuril Is.