Urutu
Bothrops alternatus
A heavy-bodied pit viper of grasslands and marshes in southern South America, known for its distinctive alternating dark blotches.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 1.0-1.5 m (3.3-5 ft)
- Range
- Southern Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay, and northern Argentina
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Overview
The Urutu is a stout pit viper found across the grasslands, marshes, and open woodlands of southern South America, including parts of Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay, and Argentina. It is considered one of the medically important snakes of the region due to its abundance in agricultural landscapes.
Its pattern consists of dark, alternating C-shaped or crescent blotches along the sides of a grayish or brownish body, a pattern reflected in its scientific name meaning "alternating."
How to identify it
- Grayish to brownish body with dark, alternating crescent or C-shaped blotches along the sides
- Heavy, stout body build compared to many other lanceheads
- Broad, triangular head distinct from the neck
- Vertical pupils and heat-sensing pits
- Pale belly contrasting with the patterned back
Habitat & range
Found in grasslands, marshes, wet pastures, and open woodland edges across southern Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay, and northern Argentina. Often common in agricultural and ranching landscapes.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Primarily nocturnal to crepuscular, hunting rodents, amphibians, and other small vertebrates. Adapted to open, often disturbed habitats, leading to regular encounters with humans in rural areas. Live-bearing, with substantial litters typical of the genus.
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Urutu refer to?
It is a common regional name used in southern South America for this pit viper species.
How can I identify it?
Look for a stout, grayish-brown body with dark, alternating crescent-shaped blotches along the sides.
Where does it live?
In grasslands, marshes, and open woodlands of southern Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay, and northern Argentina.
Is it dangerous?
Yes, it is a venomous pit viper commonly encountered in rural and agricultural areas of its range.
Urutu guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Urutu.
