Island Lancehead
Bothrops alcatraz
A rare, small island-endemic pit viper found only on Alcatrazes Island off the coast of Brazil, closely related to the Golden Lancehead.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.5-0.7 m (1.6-2.3 ft)
- Range
- Ilha de Alcatrazes, off the coast of Sao Paulo, Brazil
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Overview
The Island Lancehead is a small pit viper restricted to Ilha de Alcatrazes, another island off the coast of Sao Paulo state, Brazil. It is closely related to the Golden Lancehead of nearby Snake Island but is recognized as a distinct species with its own restricted range.
Like its island relative, it evolved in isolation without terrestrial mammal predators or prey, leading to distinctive ecological adaptations and a limited, vulnerable population.
How to identify it
- Small, slender body compared to mainland lancehead species
- Brownish to grayish coloration with faded, indistinct blotching
- Lance-shaped head typical of the genus
- Vertical pupils and heat-sensing pits
- Restricted entirely to a single small island habitat
Habitat & range
Endemic to Ilha de Alcatrazes, a small, protected island off the coast of Sao Paulo, Brazil, featuring rocky terrain and patches of coastal forest vegetation.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Believed to rely significantly on invertebrates and small vertebrates available on the island, given the limited prey base typical of small island ecosystems. Poorly studied due to its restricted range and protected status. Live-bearing, like other Bothrops species.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the Island Lancehead live?
It is found only on Ilha de Alcatrazes, a small island off the coast of Sao Paulo, Brazil.
Is it related to the Golden Lancehead?
Yes, it is a closely related island-endemic species found on a different nearby island.
Is it endangered?
Its extremely restricted island range makes it vulnerable, and it is subject to conservation protections.
Is it venomous?
Yes, it is a venomous pit viper, though little is known about its venom compared to mainland relatives.
Island Lancehead guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Island Lancehead.
