Sri Lankan Hump-Nosed Pit Viper
Hypnale hypnale
A small terrestrial pit viper of Sri Lanka and southern India, historically underestimated in medical significance despite its wide distribution.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.3-0.5 m (1-1.6 ft)
- Range
- Sri Lanka, southwestern India (Western Ghats)
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Overview
The Sri Lankan hump-nosed pit viper is a small but medically significant species found across Sri Lanka and the Western Ghats of southwestern India. Although modest in size compared to larger vipers, it is one of the more frequently encountered venomous snakes in its range due to its abundance near human habitation.
It is a ground-dwelling ambush predator, often found in leaf litter, plantations, and gardens.
How to identify it
- Small, stout body
- Brown, gray, or reddish-brown coloration with darker triangular or blotched markings
- Distinctly upturned, hump-like snout
- Triangular head, vertical pupils
- Keeled scales
- Distinguished from other Hypnale species by snout prominence and range
Habitat & range
Found in a wide range of habitats including forest floor, leaf litter, plantations, gardens, and disturbed land in Sri Lanka and the Western Ghats of India, from lowland to mid-elevation.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal and terrestrial, remaining hidden under leaf litter or debris during the day. Feeds on frogs, lizards, and invertebrates. Ambush predator using heat-sensing pits. Viviparous, giving birth to live young.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Sri Lankan hump-nosed pit viper dangerous?
Yes, it is venomous and considered medically significant despite its small size.
Where is it found?
In Sri Lanka and the Western Ghats of southwestern India.
Why is it called 'hump-nosed'?
Because of its distinctly upturned, hump-like snout.
Is it commonly encountered?
Yes, it is one of the most frequently encountered venomous snakes in its range due to its adaptability to human-altered landscapes.
Sri Lankan Hump-Nosed Pit Viper guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Sri Lankan Hump-Nosed Pit Viper.
