Sumatran Pit Viper
Trimeresurus sumatranus
A large, striking green pit viper found in the rainforests of Sumatra and Borneo, notable for its vivid coloration and arboreal lifestyle.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.8-1.3 m (2.6-4.3 ft)
- Range
- Sumatra, Borneo, and surrounding Southeast Asian islands
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Overview
The Sumatran Pit Viper is one of the larger species of Asian pit vipers, inhabiting the dense rainforests of Sumatra, Borneo, and nearby islands. It is a venomous species and should always be treated with caution and respect.
Its bright green base color, often paired with contrasting markings, makes it one of the more visually striking members of the Trimeresurus complex.
How to identify it
- Bright green body, sometimes with a yellow, white, or reddish lateral stripe
- Tail often reddish-brown or rust-colored, contrasting with the body
- Triangular, heat-sensing pit-bearing head distinct from the neck
- Vertically elliptical pupils
- Rough, keeled scales
- Larger and more robust than many related green pit vipers
- Distinguished from other Trimeresurus species by size, tail color, and specific scale counts
Habitat & range
Inhabits lowland and hill rainforests, often found in vegetation near streams, forest edges, and disturbed forest margins. It ranges from near sea level up into lower montane elevations across Sumatra, Borneo, and adjacent islands.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal and arboreal, typically coiled on low branches or shrubs during the day and active in ambush hunting at night. Feeds on small mammals, birds, and lizards using an ambush strategy aided by heat-sensing pits. Reproduction is viviparous, with females giving birth to live young.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Sumatran Pit Viper dangerous?
Yes, it is venomous and bites should be taken seriously, though it is generally not aggressive unless provoked.
Where is it found?
It is native to Sumatra, Borneo, and nearby islands in Southeast Asia.
How can I identify it?
Look for a bright green body, a contrasting reddish or yellow tail, and a triangular pit-viper head.
Is it active during the day or night?
It is primarily nocturnal, hunting at night and resting in vegetation during the day.
Sumatran Pit Viper guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Sumatran Pit Viper.
Sumatran Pit Viper identified by the community
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