Rough-Scaled Bush Viper
Atheris hispida
A striking arboreal viper covered in unusually long, upturned, spine-like scales that give it a shaggy, bristly appearance.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.5-0.7 m (20-28 in)
- Range
- Central African rainforests, including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, and Rwanda
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Overview
The Rough-Scaled Bush Viper is one of the most visually distinctive members of the genus Atheris, instantly recognizable by its elongated, keeled scales that project outward, giving the snake a spiky, almost hairy texture. It inhabits the humid montane and lowland forests of Central Africa.
In the wild it remains a shy, arboreal predator that relies on camouflage among mossy branches.
How to identify it
- Olive-green, brown, or grayish base color, sometimes with a yellowish tinge
- Extremely long, pointed, keeled scales projecting from the body, giving a bristly look
- Broad, triangular head with vertical pupils
- Prehensile tail
- Distinguished from other bush vipers by the exceptionally elongated scales unique to this species
Habitat & range
Found in humid lowland and montane rainforest, often at moderate elevations, across the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, and neighboring Central African countries. Strictly arboreal, favoring shrubs and low tree branches.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal and slow-moving, relying on camouflage rather than speed to avoid detection. Ambushes frogs, lizards, and small mammals. Reproduces via live birth, producing small litters of young.
Frequently asked questions
What makes the Rough-Scaled Bush Viper unique?
Its unusually long, spiny, upturned scales give it a bristly, shaggy texture unlike other vipers.
Is it venomous?
Yes, it is a venomous viper and should be treated with caution.
Where does it live?
It is found in Central African rainforests, particularly in the eastern Congo Basin region.
Is this species arboreal?
Yes, it lives almost entirely in shrubs and trees.
Rough-Scaled Bush Viper guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Rough-Scaled Bush Viper.
