Spiny bush viper
Unveil the secrets of vibrant spines in the forest!
The Basics
Scientific Name
Atheris hispida
Conservation Status
Least Concern
Location
Tropical rainforests in Africa
Average size
18 to 24 inches long
diet
Birds, frogs, small mammals
lifespan
10 to 12 years
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Overview
The spiny bush viper is a striking snake found in Africa. This scaly superstar grows between 45 to 60 centimeters (18 to 24 inches) long, making it a small but sensational reptile.
Sporting unique spines along its back, this viper surely knows how to make a fashion statement. These spines are not just for show; they help it blend into the leafy environment and keep it safe from hungry predators.
Spiny bush vipers eat a diet that includes birds, frogs, and small mammals. This snake waits patiently to ambush its prey, demonstrating the art of stealth in the wild.
With a lifespan of 10 to 12 years, the spiny bush viper has plenty of time to perfect its hunting skills. These vipers get their name from the spiny scales that might remind you of a prickly hedgehog!
Reptiles like the spiny bush viper belong to the class Reptilia and the order Squamata. This means they are cold-blooded, scaly, and absolutely incredible in their own right!
If you ever get a glimpse of a spiny bush viper in the wild, remember to admire from a distance. They play an important role in their ecosystems, helping to control the populations of their prey.
Where can you find a Spiny bush viper in the wild?
What does a Spiny bush viper eat?
How big can a Spiny bush viper grow?
How long does a Spiny bush viper typically live?
What is the conservation status of the Spiny bush viper?
What are the main threats to the Spiny bush viper?
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