Bothrops taeniatus taeniatus

(Wagler, 1824)

Vernacular names
English : Speckled forest-pitviper
French : Grage lichen

Classification
Class : Reptilia
Order : Squamata
Family : Viperidae
Notes : 1 other subspecies known.

Identification
The species reaches up to 150 cm in body length. Slender body, flattened and triangular head. Coloration very complex, varies from nearly lavender-pink to beige with fine speckling on head and body, and bigger dark spots on back.

Range and habitat
This species occurs in South America, from central Colombia to extreme north Bolivia, eastwards to Guianas, central and north-east Brazil. Other subspecies endemic to Venezuela. Lives in lowland rainforests and wet forests, mostly in the canopy.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : LEAST CONCERN
CITES : Not listed
Status : The species is thought to be globally uncommon. Its cryptic coloration and shy nature make it very difficult to observe.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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