Animal Name: Gaboon Viper

Scientific Names: Bitis gabonica

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Gaboon Viper Introduction

The Gaboon viper (Bitis gabonica), also called the Gaboon adder, is a viper species found in the rainforests and savannas of sub-Saharan Africa. Like all other vipers, it is venomous. It is the largest member of the genus Bitis, and it has the longest fangs of any venomous snake – up to 2 inches (5 cm) in length – and the highest venom yield of any snake.

Description of Gaboon Viper

The Gaboon vipers' coloration is a combination of light and dark brown, pink and purple arranged in diamonds and stripes along its back. Light and dark lines radiate from around its small eyes. It has a short tail, and its broad head mimics a fallen leaf, right down to the central vein.
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