Bamboo Pit Viper
Trimeresurus gramineus
A slender green pit viper found in forests of peninsular India, closely associated with bamboo thickets and dense foliage.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.5-0.9 m (1.6-3 ft)
- Range
- Peninsular India
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Overview
The bamboo pit viper is a venomous arboreal species native to peninsular India, often encountered in bamboo groves and dense forest vegetation from which it takes its common name. Its uniform green coloration provides effective camouflage among leaves.
While its venom is medically significant, bites are usually less severe than those of larger vipers, though still requiring caution.
How to identify it
- Uniform bright to olive green dorsum, sometimes with a faint pale lateral stripe
- Slender, laterally compressed body suited for climbing
- Triangular head distinct from the neck with heat-sensing pits
- Vertically elliptical pupil
- Prehensile tail aiding in climbing
- Distinguished from other green pit vipers by range and subtle scale differences
Habitat & range
Found in moist deciduous and evergreen forests, bamboo thickets, and dense scrub across peninsular India, often perched in low vegetation.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal and arboreal, ambushing frogs, lizards, and small rodents from vegetation. Remains motionless for long periods, relying on camouflage before striking. Ovoviviparous, producing live young.
Frequently asked questions
Is the bamboo pit viper dangerous?
Yes, it is venomous, though its bites are generally considered less severe than those of larger vipers.
Where does it live?
In forests and bamboo thickets across peninsular India.
What does it eat?
Frogs, lizards, and small rodents.
Does it lay eggs?
No, it is ovoviviparous and gives birth to live young.
Bamboo Pit Viper guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Bamboo Pit Viper.
