Terciopelo
Bothrops asper
A large, medically significant pit viper responsible for the majority of snakebite incidents across its Central American range.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 1.5-2.1 m (5-7 ft)
- Range
- Mexico through Central America to northern South America
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Overview
The Terciopelo, also widely known as the Fer-de-lance, is a large and adaptable pit viper found from southern Mexico through Central America into northern South America. It is considered one of the most medically important snakes in the region due to its abundance near human settlements and potent venom.
Its body is marked with a series of pale-edged, triangular or diamond-shaped dark blotches along a tan to olive background, providing effective camouflage in leaf litter and agricultural fields.
How to identify it
- Tan, olive, or grayish body with dark, triangular or X-shaped blotches edged in pale scales
- Broad, arrow-shaped head distinct from the neck
- Vertical pupils and heat-sensing pits
- Large body size compared to most Bothrops species
- Pale, unmarked underside contrasting with patterned back
Habitat & range
Highly adaptable, found in lowland rainforest, secondary growth, agricultural plantations, and areas near human habitation. Often abundant in banana and coffee plantations due to prey availability.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Primarily nocturnal, hunting small mammals, birds, and amphibians using ambush tactics. Known for a defensive temperament, especially when surprised. Females can produce very large litters of live young, sometimes numbering in the dozens.
Frequently asked questions
Why is the Terciopelo considered medically significant?
It is common near agricultural areas and human settlements, and its venom can cause serious tissue damage, making encounters with humans more frequent than with many other vipers.
What is another name for the Terciopelo?
It is also commonly known as the Fer-de-lance.
How large can it get?
It is one of the larger pit vipers in the region, reaching up to about 2.1 m (7 ft).
Where does it live?
From southern Mexico through Central America into northern South America, often in lowland forests and plantations.
Terciopelo guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Terciopelo.
