MALAYAN PIT VIPER
Locally known as the “ax snake” because a bite can have the same result as a blow from an axe – the loss of a limb.
DESCRIPTION: Averages 70-80cm (28-32in).
Patterned with angular markings of dark brown, edged with black on a reddish-brown background.
DISTRIBUTION: Indo-China, Malaya, Sumatra and Broneo.
HABITAT: Forests and oil plam plantations where it is particularly common. A perfectly camouflaged “sit and wait” hunter that lies motionless even when approached. Very dangerous to “rubber tappers” if they work without shoes.
FOOD: Rodents, frogs and reptiles.
BREEDING: After laying 13 to 30 eggs, the female coils around them until they hatch about 40 days later. It is unusual for vipers to show maternal care like this.