Protobothrops jerdonii xanthomelas

(Günther, 1889)

Vernacular names
English : Red-spotted pitviper
French : Crotale des bambous à taches rouges

Classification
Class : Reptilia
Order : Squamata
Family : Viperidae
Notes : 2 other subspecies known.

Identification
Adults can grow to around 1.60 meters in length. Broad and thick triangular head with upturned snout. This subspecies is the clearest, being mostly bright yellow with black speckling and small spots. Red-brown blotches on back.

Range and habitat
This subspecies occurs in most of central and south-central China. The species is also found in eastern India, Myanmar, southern China and Vietnam. Lives in forests and grasslands near montane rivers from 1400 to 2300 m.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : LEAST CONCERN
CITES : Not listed
Status : The species has a fairly large range but specific habitat requirements. It is said to be common in the wild and safe so far.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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