Nicobar Pit Viper
Trimeresurus labialis
A green pit viper endemic to the Nicobar Islands, closely related to the Andaman pit viper.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.5-0.8 m (1.6-2.6 ft)
- Range
- Nicobar Islands, India
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Overview
The Nicobar pit viper is restricted to the Nicobar Islands south of the Andamans in the Bay of Bengal. As an island endemic, it is closely related to the Andaman pit viper but occupies a separate archipelago.
Little is documented about population trends, but its restricted range makes it vulnerable to habitat disturbance.
How to identify it
- Green body coloration, often with a pale lateral line
- Slender, arboreal build
- Triangular head distinct from the neck
- Vertically elliptical pupils
- Keeled scales
- Distinguished from the Andaman pit viper by its distribution on the Nicobar Islands
Habitat & range
Found in tropical forests and vegetation across the Nicobar Islands, typically in low to mid-level shrubs and trees.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal and arboreal, preying on frogs, lizards, and small rodents. Ambush hunter relying on camouflage. Gives live birth to small litters.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Nicobar pit viper found?
It is endemic to the Nicobar Islands of India.
How does it differ from the Andaman pit viper?
It is a distinct species restricted to the separate Nicobar archipelago rather than the Andamans.
Is it venomous?
Yes, it is a venomous pit viper.
What is its activity pattern?
It is primarily nocturnal and arboreal.
Nicobar Pit Viper guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Nicobar Pit Viper.
