Velvety Green Night Adder
Causus resimus
A smooth-scaled, bright green night adder found in East and Central African grasslands, distinguished from bush vipers by its rounded head and smooth scalation.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.4-0.7 m (16-28 in)
- Range
- East and Central African savanna and woodland, including Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Sudan
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Overview
The Velvety Green Night Adder is a distinctive member of the genus Causus, night adders that differ from typical vipers by having relatively smooth scales, round pupils, and a less triangular head shape. Its vivid green coloration and velvety-smooth scale texture make it one of the more visually striking night adders.
It occupies savanna, grassland, and woodland habitats across East and Central Africa, where it is primarily active at night in search of amphibian prey.
How to identify it
- Bright to olive green dorsal coloration, sometimes with a velvety sheen
- Smooth, non-keeled scales unlike most vipers
- Rounded head, less distinct from the neck than in typical vipers
- Round to slightly oval pupils
- Moderate, stocky body build
- Distinguished from bush vipers (Atheris) by smooth scales and rounder head shape
Habitat & range
Found in moist savanna, grassland, and woodland habitats across East and Central Africa, often near water sources such as marshes, ponds, and riverbanks.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Primarily nocturnal, foraging on the ground for frogs and toads, its preferred prey. Generally slow-moving and not aggressive. Lays eggs (oviparous), unlike many other vipers which give live birth.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Velvety Green Night Adder venomous?
Yes, it is venomous, though its venom is generally considered less dangerous than that of many other vipers.
How does it differ from bush vipers?
It has smooth scales and a rounder head, unlike the keeled scales and triangular heads of Atheris bush vipers.
What does it eat?
It primarily preys on frogs and toads.
Does it lay eggs or give live birth?
It lays eggs, unlike many other vipers which are live-bearing.
Velvety Green Night Adder guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Velvety Green Night Adder.
