Ovophis tonkinensis

(Bourret, 1934)

Vernacular names
English : Tonkin pitviper
French : Vipère sauteuse du Tonkin

Classification
Class : Reptilia
Order : Squamata
Family : Viperidae
Notes : No subspecies known.

Identification
The species can grow to around 60 cm in length. Very thick-bodied viper with large head and short tail. Flanks are pinkish-grey, back shows large dark brown blotches separated by orange lines. Head is mostly dark brown.

Range and habitat
The species has a small range in eastern Asia, being found from Yunnan, Guangxi and Guangdong provinces (China) to North Vietnam, possibly Hainan island. Lives in leaf litter of montane forests, often near water, from 800 to 1600 m.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : LEAST CONCERN
CITES : Not listed
Status : The species is infrequently encountered because of its secretive habits but seems to be safe so far. It occurs in many protected areas within its range.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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