reptile · GBIF taxon 8901465
Puff Adder
Bitis arietansAlso known as African Puff Adder, Common Puff Adder
Puff adders are heavily built vipers renowned for their exceptional camouflage, blending seamlessly into dry leaf litter and sandy soils. Instead of fleeing when approached, they rely on remaining motionless, striking with lightning speed if stepped on or threatened. When cornered, they inflate their bodies and emit a deep, warning hiss that gives them their common name.
VenomousCamouflagedTerrestrial
Licensed reference(c) Bernard DUPONT, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA) · cc-by-sa
- diet
- Rodents, birds, frogs, and lizards
- family
- Viperidae
- threats
- Human persecution, vehicle strikes, and habitat loss
- life Span
- 10 to 15 years
LC
Highly venomous with a lightning-fast strike; maintain a safe distance of at least three meters.
Possesses potent cytotoxic venom that causes severe pain, swelling, rapid tissue destruction, and potentially fatal systemic effects.
Never attempt to handle or corner this snake; back away slowly and give it a wide berth.- Watch your step: Wear thick boots and use a flashlight when walking through grasslands at night.
- Listen for warnings: Freeze and locate the source if you hear a loud, deep hissing sound.
- Keep your distance: Never attempt to corner, poke, or relocate this snake without professional help.