YELLOW BUSH VIPER
Atheris squamigera
DESCRIPTION
The Yellow bush viper (Atheris squamigera) is a small, arboreal snake known for its striking yellow coloration and distinctive keeled scales. It is native to the rainforests of Central and West Africa, where it blends into the foliage.
FUN FACTS
- The Yellow bush viper is known for its vibrant coloration, which can vary significantly among individuals | It has a unique method of hunting, often remaining motionless for long periods | This species is ovoviviparous, giving birth to live young rather than laying eggs
QUICK INFO
Lifespan10-15 years in the wild, up to 20 in captivity
Average Length0.6-1.2 m
Diet TypeCarnivore
Social Structuresolitary
Activity PatternNocturnal
Breeding SeasonSpring (March-May)
- Habitat
- The Yellow bush viper inhabits tropical rainforests, often found in trees and shrubs. It prefers humid environments with plenty of cover.
- Biomes
- Tropical Rainforest
- Native Range
- Central and West Africa, particularly in countries like Cameroon and Nigeria.
- Continent
- Africa
- Countries
- Cameroon, Nigeria, Gabon, Republic of the Congo
- Diet
- This species primarily feeds on small mammals, birds, and lizards. It uses its heat-sensing pits to detect warm-blooded prey.
- Diet Type
- Carnivore
- Favorite Food
- small mammals, birds, lizards
- Social Structure
- solitary
- Activity Pattern
- Nocturnal
- Group Size
- 1
- Territorial
- 1
VU
0.6-1.2 m
Length
- Coloration
- bright yellow with green or brown markings
- Sexual Dimorphism
- females are generally larger than males
- Lifespan
- 10-15 years in the wild, up to 20 in captivity
- Offspring per Birth
- 3-15
- Sexual Maturity
- 2-3 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring (March-May)
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is currently stable, but habitat loss poses a potential threat.
- Wild Population Estimate
- unknown
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Habitat destruction due to deforestation and human encroachment are the main threats to this species.
- Predators
- birds of prey, larger snakes
- Defense Mechanisms
- camouflage and venomous bite
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon