Atheris squamigera

(Hallowell, 1854)

Vernacular names
English : Variable bush viper
French : Vipère des buissons variable

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

Identification
Adults can reach a maximum length of 80 cm. Scales on head and flanks very large and strongly keeled. Coloration very variable, going from reddish brown to green with more or less visible crossbars on flanks and back.

Range and habitat
The species is found in many parts of Subsaharan Africa, from Ghana to Kenya, south to Tanzania and Angola. Forest specialist, also occurs in clearings, up to 6 meters above ground.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : LEAST CONCERN
CITES : Not listed
Status : The species is still safe as it has a very wide range and still occurs in large numbers at least in some areas. Capture for trade is a problem.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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