Green Night Adder
Causus resimus
A bright green night adder found in East and Central African wetlands, easily distinguished from its duller relatives by coloration.
- Venomous?
- Mildly venomous
- Adult length
- 0.4-0.7 m (1.3-2.3 ft)
- Range
- East and Central Africa
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Overview
The Green Night Adder stands out among the night adders for its vivid green coloration, which provides camouflage among grasses and vegetation near water. It shares the family's mild venom and frog-based diet.
It is generally docile and prefers to avoid confrontation, relying on its coloration to remain hidden.
How to identify it
- Bright green to olive-green dorsal coloration, sometimes with a bluish tinge
- Rounded head, less triangular than typical vipers
- Round pupils
- Smooth to slightly keeled scales
- Distinguished from other night adders primarily by its green coloration
Habitat & range
Found in moist grassland, marshes, and wetland edges across East and Central Africa.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal, feeding primarily on frogs and toads near water. Lays eggs. Generally calm and non-aggressive when encountered.
Frequently asked questions
What makes the Green Night Adder unique among night adders?
Its distinctive bright green coloration sets it apart from the more typically brown or gray night adders.
Is it dangerous?
It has mild venom and is not considered a major threat to humans.
What does it eat?
It primarily preys on frogs and toads.
Where does it live?
It is found in wetlands and moist grasslands of East and Central Africa.
Green Night Adder guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Green Night Adder.
