Nitsche's Bush Viper
Atheris nitschei
An arboreal African viper of montane forest habitats, named for its variable coloring and keeled scales.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.5-0.8 m (20-31 in)
- Range
- Montane forests of the African Great Lakes region
Found a snake like this?
Identify any snake from a photo, free.
Overview
Nitsche's Bush Viper is a montane-forest specialist found in the highlands surrounding the African Great Lakes. Like other members of the genus Atheris, it is arboreal, venomous, and displays notable variation in coloration across its range.
It is closely associated with humid, high-elevation forest habitats, distinguishing it ecologically from lowland bush viper species.
How to identify it
- Green, olive, blue-green, or yellowish base coloration
- Dark markings or crossbands variably present
- Rough, keeled scalation
- Broad triangular head, vertical pupils
- Prehensile tail
- Best distinguished from related species by montane range and scale characteristics
Habitat & range
Found in montane and submontane rainforest at moderate to high elevations around the African Great Lakes, often in vegetation near streams and forest edges.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal ambush predator that hunts frogs, lizards, and small mammals from concealed positions in shrubs. Viviparous, producing live young in small litters.
Frequently asked questions
Is Nitsche's Bush Viper the same as the Great Lakes Bush Viper?
Yes, both common names refer to the species Atheris nitschei.
Is it dangerous to humans?
It is venomous, so it should be avoided and never handled.
What elevation does it prefer?
It favors montane and submontane forest at moderate to high elevations.
What does it eat?
Frogs, lizards, and small mammals are its primary prey.
Nitsche's Bush Viper guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Nitsche's Bush Viper.
