White-Lipped Pit Viper
Trimeresurus albolabris
A common bright green pit viper of South and Southeast Asian forests, easily recognized by its pale lower lip.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.6-1 m (2-3.3 ft)
- Range
- South and Southeast Asia
Found a snake like this?
Identify any snake from a photo, free.
Overview
The white-lipped pit viper is one of the most frequently encountered green pit vipers across South and Southeast Asia, often found in forests, plantations, and even urban gardens. Its vivid green coloration and contrasting pale lip line make it readily identifiable.
While its venom is medically significant, it is generally regarded as less dangerous than larger vipers, though bites still require caution.
How to identify it
- Bright green dorsum, often with a whitish or yellowish belly
- Distinctive pale white or yellow stripe along the lower lip
- Reddish or brownish tail tip in some populations
- Triangular head with heat-sensing pits
- Vertically elliptical pupil
- Keeled scales giving a slightly rough texture
- Distinguished from other green pit vipers by the pale lip stripe
Habitat & range
Found in tropical forests, plantations, bamboo groves, and even suburban gardens across India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, and other parts of Southeast Asia.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal and arboreal, ambushing frogs, lizards, birds, and small mammals from perches in vegetation. Relatively common near human dwellings due to its adaptability. Ovoviviparous, giving birth to live young.
Frequently asked questions
Is the white-lipped pit viper dangerous?
Yes, it is venomous and considered medically significant, though its bites are generally less severe than larger viper species.
How can it be identified?
By its bright green body and distinctive pale white or yellow stripe along the lower lip.
Where does it live?
Across forests, plantations, and even gardens throughout South and Southeast Asia.
What does it eat?
Frogs, lizards, birds, and small mammals.
White-Lipped Pit Viper guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding White-Lipped Pit Viper.
