VipersIdentify a snake
West African Gaboon Viper
Bitis rhinoceros
A massive, ornately patterned viper native to West African rainforests.
- Adult length
- 1.2-1.8 m (4-6 ft)
- Range
- West Africa (rainforest belt)
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Overview
The West African Gaboon Viper is among the largest vipers in the world, distinguished by its intricate geometric pattern of browns, purples, and creams that provides remarkable camouflage on the forest floor.
How to identify it
- Complex geometric pattern of tan, brown, purple, and cream markings resembling fallen leaves
- Very large, broad, triangular head with small horns above the nostrils
- Vertically elliptical pupils
- Extremely heavy, thick body
- Distinguished from the East African Gaboon Viper by nasal horn structure and range
Habitat & range
Inhabits lowland tropical rainforest and forest edges throughout West Africa.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal, slow-moving ambush predator relying on camouflage to catch rodents and other small mammals. Gives birth to live young.
Frequently asked questions
How can I tell it apart from the East African Gaboon Viper?
Differences in nasal horn scales and geographic range separate the two species.
Where does it live?
It inhabits rainforests across West Africa.
West African Gaboon Viper guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding West African Gaboon Viper.
