Snake Identifier
Cameron Highlands Pit Viper (Trimeresurus nebularis)
Cameron Highlands Pit Viper (Trimeresurus nebularis) (Photo by Xavier MALLERET) (24540244302) by Bernard DUPONT from FRANCE, via Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0
Vipers

Cameron Highlands Pit Viper

Trimeresurus nebularis

A montane green pit viper endemic to the cool cloud forests of the Cameron Highlands in Malaysia.

Venomous?
Venomous
Adult length
0.5-0.8 m (1.6-2.6 ft)
Range
Peninsular Malaysia (Cameron Highlands)

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Overview

The Cameron Highlands pit viper is restricted to the highland cloud forests of the Cameron Highlands in Peninsular Malaysia, one of several montane-endemic pitvipers described from Malaysia's mountain ranges. Its species name references the misty, cloud-covered habitat it occupies.

Adapted to cooler temperatures than lowland relatives, it is active in the cool, humid conditions typical of Malaysian highlands.

How to identify it

  • Green body coloration
  • Triangular head, vertical pupils
  • Keeled scales
  • Reddish or pale tail tip
  • Restricted montane range distinguishes it from lowland green pitvipers of the same region

Habitat & range

Found in montane cloud forest of the Cameron Highlands, typically at elevations above 1,000 m, in cool, misty conditions.

Behavior, diet & reproduction

Nocturnal and arboreal, resting coiled on vegetation during the day. Feeds on small frogs, lizards, and rodents. Ambush predator using heat-sensing pits. Gives birth to live young.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Cameron Highlands pit viper venomous?

Yes, it is a venomous pit viper.

Where is it endemic to?

It is endemic to the Cameron Highlands region of Peninsular Malaysia.

Why does its name reference clouds?

Its species name reflects the misty cloud forest habitat it inhabits.

How high does it occur?

Typically above 1,000 meters elevation.