How to Identify the Bornean Keeled Green Pit Viper (Identification Guide)
A green pit viper of Borneo, distinguished by strongly keeled body scales, a triangular head, and heat-sensing facial pits.
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Key identifying features
The Bornean Keeled Green Pit Viper is identified by the classic pit viper combination of a broad, triangular head, vertically elliptical pupils, and heat-sensing pits, along with notably strongly keeled scales that give the body a rough, ridged texture. This keeling is more pronounced than in many related green pit vipers, making it a useful identification clue.
Coloration & pattern
The body is predominantly green, ranging from bright to a duller olive-green, often with a thin pale or white line running along the lower flank. Some individuals show faint darker mottling. The tail may show a slightly different shade, though less dramatically contrasting than in some related species.
Head, eyes & scales
The head is broad and triangular, clearly distinct from the narrower neck, with vertically elliptical pupils typical of pit vipers. Heat-sensing pits sit between the eye and nostril on each side. The dorsal scales are strongly keeled, creating a rough, ridged surface texture that is more pronounced than in many other green pit viper species, which is where the common name derives from.
Size & body shape
This species is small to moderate in size, with adults typically reaching around 50 to 70 centimeters and larger females sometimes exceeding this. The body is moderately stout for a pit viper, with a prehensile tail suited to gripping branches and vines.
Range & habitat where you'll see it
The Bornean Keeled Green Pit Viper is found on the island of Borneo and some neighboring parts of Southeast Asia, in lowland and montane rainforest, often in low vegetation, shrubs, and near streams. It is primarily nocturnal and arboreal, typically encountered coiled on leaves or low branches after dark.
How to tell it apart from look-alikes
The notably strong keeling of its scales helps separate it from other green pit vipers in the region that have smoother or less pronounced keeling. Precise identification among Southeast Asian green pit vipers often also depends on confirming the locality, since several closely related species have overlapping general appearances.
Frequently asked questions
What is the defining scale feature of this species?
Its dorsal scales are strongly keeled, giving the body a notably rough, ridged texture compared to related green pit vipers.
What color is the body?
Predominantly green, ranging from bright to olive-green, sometimes with a thin pale line along the lower flank.
How large does it grow?
Adults typically reach 50 to 70 centimeters, with larger females sometimes exceeding this.
Where is this snake found?
On Borneo and some nearby areas, in lowland and montane rainforest, often near streams and in low vegetation.
Is it active during the day?
No, it is primarily nocturnal and arboreal, usually found coiled on leaves or low branches at night.