Philippine Temple Pit Viper
Tropidolaemus subannulatus
A brightly patterned arboreal pit viper found across the Philippines and neighboring islands.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.7-1.0 m (2.3-3.3 ft)
- Range
- Philippines and parts of the Malay Archipelago
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Overview
The Philippine temple pit viper is a member of the Tropidolaemus genus, distributed across the Philippines and parts of the wider Malay Archipelago. It is known for its vivid coloration and pronounced differences between males and females.
It inhabits humid tropical forests, where it plays a role as an ambush predator of small vertebrates.
How to identify it
- Green, yellow, or banded coloration depending on sex and population
- Broad, somewhat triangular head
- Vertically elliptical pupils
- Strongly keeled scales giving a rough texture
- Pronounced sexual dichromatism, with females often larger and differently patterned than males
- Distinguished from other Tropidolaemus species by geographic range and pattern details
Habitat & range
Inhabits lowland and hill tropical forests across the Philippines and neighboring islands, often in vegetation near streams and forest clearings.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal and arboreal, remaining coiled on branches by day. Preys on frogs, lizards, birds, and small mammals. Gives live birth to litters of young.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Philippine temple pit viper found?
It occurs across the Philippines and parts of the wider Malay Archipelago.
Is it venomous?
Yes, it is a venomous pit viper.
Do males and females look different?
Yes, the species shows notable sexual dichromatism, with differing colors and patterns between sexes.
What does it eat?
Frogs, lizards, birds, and small mammals.
Philippine Temple Pit Viper guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Philippine Temple Pit Viper.
